UFO Brigantia issue 33

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: No. 33
Date: July/August 1988
Publisher: Independent UFO Network (IUN)
Country: UK
Language: English

UFO BRIGANTIA is presented as 'A JOURNAL OF UFO INVESTIGATION' and operates under the belief that 'at least six impossible things before breakfast' is a reasonable approach to the subject. The magazine is bi-monthly and available via subscription or exchange.

Editorial

The editorial discusses upcoming changes to the magazine, including a reduction in pagination from 32 to 28 pages due to rising printing costs. To maintain value, the line spacing will be reduced, effectively increasing the word count per issue. The editor notes a significant increase in subscriptions, particularly from America, and encourages readers to continue submitting letters, articles, and UFO-related news. Future issues are planned to include articles on hauntings potentially linked to UFO abductions, and a specific article on the 'Ubatuba' case. The editorial highlights Regina Cullen's article on Ubatuba as particularly provocative, suggesting it surpasses conventional 'crashed saucer' stories. It also touches upon David Clarke's ongoing look at South Yorkshire sightings and the debate about whether such phenomena are terrestrial aircraft or genuinely unknown. The editorial cautions against embracing the 'Nazi hypothesis' and 'Secret Weapons Hypothesis' without critical examination, comparing them to past 'airship flaps.' It also addresses the persistent issue of sensationalist journalism, exemplified by the 'Sunday Sport,' and contrasts it with a more positive interview experience with a South Wales radio journalist.

The I.U.N.

The Independent UFO Network (IUN) was formed in September 1987 from the merger of the West Yorkshire UFO Research Group (WYUFORG) and the Yorkshire UFO Network (YUFON), along with other independent investigators. The IUN positions itself as a non-dogmatic, free-floating pool of researchers, emphasizing freedom of information and witness anonymity. Case files are open for inspection. The organization does not hold a fixed viewpoint on the ultimate nature of the UFO phenomenon and respects individual beliefs. Membership is free, with the primary requirement being a willingness to contribute to the group's aims. Subscription to UFO BRIGANTIA is encouraged. The IUN also operates a 24-hour UFO Hotline and is involved in 'Project Pennine,' a study of anomalous light phenomena in the UK. The journal's name, 'BRIGANTIA,' is derived from an old Celtic word for a geographical area stretching from the Wash to Scotland.

Contents

The issue includes an Editorial, articles titled 'UFO's Over Barnsley,' 'Ubatuba.. An Investigation Unfinished,' 'News,' 'Scottish News,' 'Ufology & Ufologists,' 'Purple Haze?,' 'The Lear Statement,' and 'Letters.'

UFOs Over Barnsley

This article by David Clarke details a surge in UFO sightings in the Barnsley area of South Yorkshire, beginning in August 1987 with photographs taken by Peter Beard. Since then, numerous sightings have been reported, including a large diamond-shaped object on February 10th, 1988, and an oblong object with colored lights and searchlights on April 20th, 1988, observed in the Hoyland and Wombwell areas. The local Barnsley Chronicle covered these events. The article recounts a first-hand account from David Gibson, who witnessed a large, silent, hovering object with lights over Hoyland on April 20th. It also describes a 'close encounter' experienced by Mrs. Linda Sage and her daughter near Wombwell on the same night, involving a hovering oblong object with flashing lights that later descended and illuminated them.

Further reports include sightings of large, silent objects with colored lights over Darfield and by groups of workers in Cudworth. Harry Reynolds described an object moving in a straight line with 'thrusting movements,' similar to a dragonfly. The article questions whether these sightings could be secret military aircraft and notes the high risk of discovery if they were. A significant sighting occurred on April 20th, 1988, near Staincross, where Sharon Cook and her boyfriend observed a man working on an 'aerial' by a parked car, followed by a triangle-shaped object with colored lights moving overhead. Simultaneously, several cars appeared on Warren Lane, seemingly chasing the object with spotlights. The article suggests this could be evidence of low-flying, short-range reconnaissance aircraft.

Ubatuba: An Investigation Unfinished

Regina Cullen examines the Ubatuba fragments, recovered in September 1957 from an allegedly exploded flying disc in Brazil. The article notes that the analysis of these magnesium fragments has been unsatisfactory and that the case has been overlooked despite a revival of interest in crash/retrieval cases. The author wonders about the fate of the fragments, which were presumably held by APRO. The article references Margaret Sachs' 'The UFO Encyclopedia,' which argues that the absence of elements like aluminum, copper, and calcium, along with the lack of silicon and mercury contamination, suggests a non-terrestrial origin. The author questions whether Dow Chemical Co. adequately explored its early experiments with purified magnesium and whether the Condon Committee fairly considered all evidence. Dr. David Saunders, who left the Condon Committee under protest, co-authored 'UFOs? Yes!' with Roger Harkins, further supporting the significance of the Ubatuba case.

News

IUN Reports: The IUN has released two reports: the 'AUGUST REPORT' detailing UFO sightings in northern England during August 1987, and the 'HULL REPORT' focusing on a flap of sightings over Humberside on December 9th, 1987. These reports are available for purchase.

Help: Robert Moore is seeking assistance in analyzing a cine film of a supposed UFO over Mount Sinai taken in July 1987.

SPI Journal: Malcolm Robinson of SPI offers their newsletter for £3 for twelve monthly issues.

For Sale: A list of books on UFOs and related topics is available for purchase, including titles by Charles Fort, D. Leslie, G. Adamski, F.W. Holiday, John White, Blanch Merle, T.J. Constable, Jenny Randles, Arthur Shuttlewood, and Jacques Vallee.

Wanted: John Keel's 'Jadoo,' Martin Caidin's 'Black Thursday,' and other specific publications are sought.

Ubatuba/Livingston Revisited

This section recounts a journey by Dave Kelly and Philip Mantle to Scotland to give a lecture and re-interview Robert Taylor, a key witness in the Livingston CE case. On Day One, they traveled to Stirling, met with Malcolm Robinson of SPI and colleagues, and attended talks on witchcraft and the Barnsley UFO sighting. On Day Two, they visited Robert Taylor in Blairgowrie and later the site of the Livingston encounter. Day Three involved their return journey to Chesterfield. The account expresses gratitude to Malcolm Robinson and Robert Taylor for their hospitality.

Stealth Technology - The Answer?

This article explores the possibility that advanced 'stealth' aircraft, such as those being developed by the US for the CIA, might be responsible for some UFO sightings in the UK. The article mentions reports of new spy planes capable of high speeds and radar invisibility. It suggests that prototype reconnaissance aircraft might be tested secretly over northern England, leading to observations being dismissed as 'crazy UFO stories.' Several sightings of triangular or V-shaped objects with red and white lights are detailed, including one by Manchester University students on March 3rd, 1988, and another by Barry Bellamy on the A1 in Yorkshire. Lancashire ufologist Cath Calvo also reported a similar object. Humberside police provided details of two witnesses seeing 'triangular-shaped objects with flashing white lights' on April 13th, 1988. The article concludes that these sightings, along with others, suggest that 'missing pieces of the jigsaw puzzle are slowly falling into place,' potentially linking them to stealth technology.

A postscript notes a recent 'flap' of UFO reports in the Barnsley area on May 5th, 1988, including an object hovering above a moving automobile. Further details are promised for the next issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes investigative journalism within the field of ufology, encouraging submissions and open discussion. There is a clear stance against sensationalism and a call for critical analysis of hypotheses, such as the 'Nazi hypothesis' and 'Secret Weapons Hypothesis.' The IUN's non-dogmatic approach and emphasis on freedom of information are central themes. The publication also highlights the importance of historical cases like Ubatuba and explores contemporary possibilities, such as the role of advanced aircraft technology in UFO sightings. The magazine appears to be a platform for sharing detailed case reports, witness accounts, and speculative theories within the UK UFO community.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: JUL/AUG '88
Volume: 11
Date: July/August 1988
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK
Price: £2.50

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, edited by Dave Kelly, delves into several significant topics within the ufology community, including a memorialization of a past UFO encounter, a debate on the nature of 'mystery circles,' and a detailed account of a reported abduction case, alongside a comprehensive statement from John Lear regarding government cover-ups and alien involvement.

Dechmont Wood Memorial

The magazine announces that a stone plinth and plaque will be erected at the site of Robert Taylor's 1979 UFO encounter in Dechmont Wood, Scotland. This initiative came about after the SPI movement in Scotland contacted the Development Corporation, which manages the area. The memorial is planned as part of a new policy to enhance the wooded area for visitors, encouraging them to appreciate its natural beauty. Malcolm Robinson of SPI and Dean Swift, Landscape Architect for Dechmont Law, were instrumental in this decision.

The Ufologist's Paradigm & Mystery Circles

Paul Fuller contributes a lengthy article titled 'OUR PARADIGM & OUR PROBLEMS,' discussing the internal divisions within the UFO movement. He criticizes the tendency of some ufologists to embrace 'exotic explanatory models' for unexplained phenomena, such as 'mystery circles,' without sufficient evidence. Fuller advocates for a more rational, evidence-based approach, promoting his 'Vortex Theory' as a potential explanation for these circles. He argues that the movement is often at war with itself, with factions attempting to suppress each other, hindering progress and alienating the scientific establishment. Fuller proposes a three-point plan: objective investigation, producing accessible case studies, and persuading sympathetic scientists to examine data privately. He intends to promote the Vortex Theory widely to encourage a more serious approach to ufology.

The Roundhay Park Abduction

This section details a reported abduction case in Roundhay Park, Leeds, involving Martin Cohen. According to the account, Cohen experienced a 'purple glow,' numbness, and a missing eight-hour period, during which he claims to have been with 'furry women.' Michael Cotran, who found Cohen, corroborated seeing a purple glow and a man within it. The case gained media attention, with the Yorkshire Evening Post headlining it as an 'ALIEN ABDUCTION IN THE PARK.' However, investigations by BUFORA and the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS) yielded conflicting results. While BUFORA's investigation, led by Philip Mantle and David Clarke, noted discrepancies and a low credibility of witnesses, YUFOS, represented by Mark Ian Birdsall, denounced the case as an elaborate hoax, suggesting the witnesses sought financial gain. Michael Cotran, however, vehemently denies the hoax claims and accuses YUFOS of making false accusations.

The John Lear Statement

UFO BRIGANTIA presents what it calls 'The John Lear Statement,' a lengthy document released by John Lear, a highly credentialed pilot and former CIA operative. The statement, dated December 29, 1987, and revised March 25, 1988, alleges a massive government cover-up of UFO crashes and alien contact dating back to the 1940s. Lear claims that the US government made a deal with 'Extraterrestrial Biological Entities' (EBEs) in exchange for technology, agreeing to suppress information on abductions and cattle mutilations. He mentions alleged UFO crashes in Roswell, Aztec, and near Laredo, Texas, and the formation of a secret group known as MJ-12 to manage this information. Lear asserts that the 'horrible truth' is far more shocking than the public imagines and criticizes the government's continued efforts to suppress this information.

Reviews

FIRE FROM THE GODS?

This review covers a publication by Angus McClean, published by Northern Lights, which explores the 'Minster Fire' incident. The book is described as a condensation of Ian Taylor's previous work, focusing on the folk-legend of a lost hill figure and associated legends. It also connects light phenomena with religious revivals and the UFO-related fire that devastated York Minster in July 1984. The review notes that McClean and Taylor propose an 'earth energy' manifestation linked to an astronomical alignment as the cause, but the reviewer finds the evidence unconvincing, though recommends the book for its exploration of the connection between ufology and Earth Mysteries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a strong interest in UFO phenomena, particularly in the UK, with a focus on investigative journalism and the internal debates within the ufology community. There's a clear division presented between those who embrace more 'exotic' or 'paranormal' explanations and those who advocate for a more rational, scientific approach. The magazine seems to lean towards presenting a balanced view, even when dealing with controversial or potentially hoaxed cases, as seen in the Roundhay Park incident. The inclusion of the John Lear Statement suggests an openness to exploring even the most far-fetched theories, while the editorial stance, particularly through Paul Fuller's article, emphasizes the need for critical evaluation and a more serious, evidence-based approach to the study of UFOs to gain credibility.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, dated July/August 1988, features a prominent "John Lear Statement" revised on March 25, 1988. The magazine also includes a "Letters to the Editor" section with contributions from Jenny Randles, Regina Cullen, Hilary Evans, Malcolm Robinson, and an editor's note from Andy Roberts.

John Lear Statement

John Lear's statement details a purported secret agreement between the U.S. Government, specifically the organization MJ-12, and extraterrestrial beings (EBEs). Lear outlines six primary purposes for alien abductions:

1. Biological Monitoring and Control: Insertion of a 3mm spherical device through the nasal cavity into the brain for monitoring, tracking, and control.
2. Posthypnotic Suggestion: Implementation of suggestions for future actions.
3. Biological Material Collection: Termination of individuals to serve as living sources for biological material and substances.
4. Threat Elimination: Termination of individuals who pose a threat to the aliens' activities.
5. Genetic Engineering Experiments: Conducting experiments to alter human genetics.
6. Crossbreed Infant Acquisition: Impregnation of human females and early termination of pregnancies to secure crossbreed infants.

Lear claims the U.S. Government was initially unaware of the full consequences of their "deal" with the EBEs, believing the abductions to be benign. They reportedly insisted on a periodic list of abductees submitted to MJ-12 and the National Security Council.

The EBEs are described as having a genetic disorder, with an atrophied digestive system, and they sustain themselves using an enzyme or hormonal secretion obtained from human and animal tissue. This secretion is mixed with hydrogen peroxide and applied to their bodies, absorbed through the skin.

Cattle mutilations, which occurred between 1973 and 1983, are presented as a method for aliens to collect these tissues. The mutilations involved precise removal of genitals, rectums, eyes, and tongues, often with no blood found and no vascular collapse of internal organs. Similar mutilations were noted in human victims, such as Sgt. Jonathan P. Louette in 1956.

Lear alleges that these harvested body parts are taken to underground laboratories, including one near Dulce, New Mexico, which is jointly occupied by the CIA and aliens. He describes enormous underground facilities, such as at Groom Lake, with vats of amber liquid containing human bodies.

During the period between 1979 and 1983, MJ-12 realized that more people were being abducted than officially listed, and some missing children were used for secretions. An incident at the Dulce laboratory in 1979 reportedly resulted in the deaths of 66 soldiers.

By 1984, MJ-12 was in "stark terror" due to the "Grand Deception" they had orchestrated. They had promoted movies like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "E.T." to make aliens appear benevolent, but the reality was the opposite. A plan to inform the public about aliens over 20 years, culminating in documentaries, was disrupted by the discovery of the "Grand Deception."

Lear names several individuals as potential members of MJ-12, including Dr. Edward Teller, Dr. Kissinger, Admiral Bobby Inman, and Admiral Poindexter. He also mentions a video tape of newsmen interviewing a military officer associated with MJ-12, detailing UFO history and cover-ups.

Lear discusses the NSA project "Aquarius," which deals with communications with aliens (EBEs), and "Snowbird," a project to test-fly recovered alien aircraft at Groom Lake.

He notes that the EBEs claim to have created Christ and possess a recording device that has recorded Earth's history, including the crucifixion of Christ on the Mount of Olives, which they allegedly have put on film.

Lear expresses skepticism about prominent scientists like Carl Sagan, Isaac Asimov, and Arthur C. Clarke, suggesting they are either ignorant or complicit in a cover-up.

He warns that a "well planned invasion" would not involve mass landings but a subtle infiltration, and advises readers to "RUN LIKE HELL!" if they see a flying saucer.

Lear also mentions a program initiated in 1983, designated 'PI-40', to develop a weapon against the EBEs, which failed in December 1987. A new program is underway.

Letters to the Editor

Jenny Randles discusses her book "Abduction," written in March 1987 to provide a counter-balance to the U.S. obsession with abductions. She notes the controversy surrounding her book, including legal threats and an injunction, stemming from individuals who wish to restrict public evaluation of abduction phenomena. Randles emphasizes the need for objectivity and open discussion, criticizing those who try to control the narrative. She recounts difficulties with her publisher, Robert Hale, and the media's sensationalized portrayal of abduction cases, particularly by The Star newspaper.

Regina Cullen responds to criticism, defending her views and questioning the "wisdom and experience" attributed to Philip Klass. She dismisses the idea of "channeling" and the claims of a British lady killing her grandchildren to save them from abduction. Cullen expresses contempt for the "arrogance" of those who claim to know better about the subject.

Hilary Evans comments on Regina Cullen's review of Phil Klass's "Abductions," noting the tendency for some beliefs to lead to wealth (e.g., Whitley Streiber). Evans agrees with Cullen that Klass's book is a "dangerous game," citing a case where an English lady killed her grandchildren, believing they were to be abducted by aliens. Evans believes Klass is sincerely concerned about the harm caused by researchers like Hopkins, Jacobs, and Streiber.

Malcolm Robinson writes about the sensationalized reporting of UFO phenomena by the British newspaper "The Sunday Sport." He warns readers to be cautious when dealing with journalists from such publications, as they tend to distort information and focus on sensationalism rather than balanced analysis.

Andy Roberts, in an editor's note, apologizes to Regina Cullen for typing errors in her previous article, "Abductions; Phil Klass plays a dangerous game." He acknowledges the "gross errors" and expresses regret.

Regina Cullen writes to the editor, addressing Andy Roberts' apology and noting errors in spelling and punctuation. She also addresses Hilary Evans' comments, defending her position and dismissing the notion of "channeling" and the specific abduction case mentioned by Evans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around alien abductions, government secrecy, and the alleged cover-up of extraterrestrial activity. There is a clear division in perspectives, with John Lear presenting a detailed, albeit controversial, account of alien intentions and government involvement. The letters section highlights the contentious nature of abduction research, the role of the media in shaping public perception, and the ethical considerations for researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open discussion and critical evaluation of the evidence, while acknowledging the highly emotive and potentially dangerous aspects of the subject.

This issue of UFO Brigantia, dated July/August 1988, focuses on the critical stance of ufologists towards sensationalist media coverage, particularly from the 'Sunday Sport'. The magazine aims to uphold the credibility of ufology and distinguish it from mere sensationalism.

Editorial Stance and Main Arguments

The primary argument presented is that publications like the Sunday Sport, with their 'insane ramblings' and 'ludicrous UFO items', are actively harming the cause of ufology. The author, identified as Malcolm Robinson, expresses concern that such coverage lowers the public's perception of UFO research, making it difficult for serious investigators to gain respect and credence. The editorial urges ufologists to be discerning in their interactions with such media, suggesting that any engagement should be limited to correcting factual inaccuracies.

Malcolm Robinson states, "We as ufologists are trying to obtain as much credence and respect towards the UFO enigma, and the Sunday Sport, with its insane ramblings on, is certainly not helping our cause." He emphasizes that while ufologists are not necessarily implying extraterrestrial origins, they believe 'something going on' warrants serious investigation. The potential implications of UFO research are vast, and the Sunday Sport's approach is seen as trivializing the subject.

The magazine advocates for a more rigorous and evidence-based approach to ufology, suggesting that research must continue regardless of the ultimate answer, which could be insignificant or have wider implications. The editorial expresses a desire to show the public that there is substance to the UFO phenomenon, rather than allowing it to be dismissed due to poor reporting.

Robinson has informed members of the Strange Phenomena Investigation Team to avoid talking to the Sunday Sport, or to only do so to correct misinformation. He appeals to readers of Brigantia and other serious investigators to adopt a similar approach, arguing that assisting the Sunday Sport in publishing 'silly stories' is detrimental to the field.

Malcolm Robinson concludes that the Sunday Sport is only good for "holding the good old British fish supper and nothing more."

Notable Quotes and Anecdotes

Two significant quotes are featured:

• Malcolm Robinson (implied author of the main editorial): "Maybe the UFO's exist objectively or maybe the whole UFO phenomenon is a cover for a secret police disinformation ploy" *Robert Anton Wilson 1983*

• An anecdote is presented about Rex Ball, an engineer who claimed to have encountered a mysterious underground installation in Georgia in 1940. He described it as being manned by small Oriental-looking men in overalls and a few American military officers. When discovered, one officer allegedly commanded, "Make him look like a nut!" Ball reported waking up in a field, uncertain if the experience was real or a dream. This anecdote is attributed to John Keel in 1975.

UFO & Space Age Publications List

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to a catalog of "UFO & Space Age Publications." This list includes numerous books and magazines available for purchase, covering a wide range of topics within ufology and related phenomena. Titles include:

• 'Light Years' by Gary Kinder
• 'UFO Crash at Aztec' by Wendelle Stevens
• 'UFO Photographs Around the World' Vols I & II by Wendelle Stevens
• 'UFO Contact from Planet Ummo' Vol I by A. Ribera
• 'UFO Contact from Reticulum' by Stevens and Herrman
• 'UFO Contact from Itiba Ra' by Pallmann & Stevens
• 'UFO Contact Over Modern China' by Stevens & Dong
• 'Extraterrestrials Among Us' by G. Andrews
• 'The Goblin Universe' by Ted Holiday (covering Fortean phenomena)
• 'UFO's From 1947-1987' by Hilary Evans
• 'Clear Intent' by Lawrence Fawcett & Barry Greenwood
• 'Fortean Times' magazine, edited by Bob Rickard & Paul Sieveking
• 'Mystery Clouds Are Coming' by Dr. Donald Coverdale
• 'The Awesome Life Force' by Joseph H. Cater
• Several titles by Riley Crabbe, including 'The Flying Saucer Mystery and Its Solution', 'Who Flies the Flying Saucers', 'The Reality of the Cavern World', 'Flying Saucers & The New Consciousness', 'Flying Saucers Uncensored', 'Communication with Flying Saucers', 'M.K. Jessup and the Allende Letters', 'Rainbow City from the Hefferlin Manuscript Part One', 'The Hefferlin Manuscript Part Two', 'Flying Saucers & America's Destiny', 'Flying Saucers on the Moon', and 'Spacecraft from Beyond the Sun'.
• 'Cosmic Continents' by Dr. Raymond Drake
• 'The Pennine UFO Mystery' by Jenny Randles

All prices are listed in pounds (£) and include postage. Instructions are provided to send an S.A.E. and two first-class stamps for a complete list, with a mailing address in Herne Bay, Kent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of media portrayal of UFO phenomena, the importance of maintaining the scientific and investigative integrity of ufology, and the promotion of literature and research within the field. The editorial stance is one of advocating for serious, evidence-based investigation and a clear distinction between genuine research and sensationalist journalism. The magazine positions itself as a platform for disseminating credible information and resources for those interested in UFOs and related mysteries.