UFO Brigantia issue 39

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: No. 39
Date: Summer '89 (Cover date: Thursday, March 30, 1989)
Publisher: The IUN (Independent UFO Network)
Type: A Journal of UFO Investigation

Editorial

The editorial, written by Andy Roberts, addresses the summer issue's lateness, attributing it to the busy schedule of finishing a UFO book manuscript. This issue is a double 'summer' issue, counting as two for subscribers, with the next issue due in November. Roberts provides a history of UFO BRIGANTIA, tracing its origins back to Paul Bennett in the early 1980s, who founded the WYUFOS Newsletter, which evolved into the West Yorkshire UFO Research Group (WYUFORG) and subsequently UFO BRIGANTIA. Roberts took over the magazine in January 1986, aiming to create a publication that was more reflective of ufology's trends and beliefs, unlike other magazines he perceived as being too cautious. He explains the formation of the IUN in September 1987 from disillusioned members of other UFO groups. Roberts emphasizes that UFO BRIGANTIA is not connected to any other UFO groups and its ethos is laid out in the editorial. He stresses the importance of critical thinking in ufology, urging readers not to blindly accept what they read, especially in editorials, and to write in with corrections or complaints. He advocates for more journals to prevent 'clubbish' attitudes and the dominance of single viewpoints, encouraging readers to start their own publications. The editorial highlights that while sightings and theories are interesting, the focus should also be on criticizing the people, groups, and methodologies within ufology. Roberts calls for a more serious approach to ufology, one that doesn't shy away from difficult truths or dismiss differing viewpoints, and acknowledges the significant role magazines play in communicating these ideas.

Articles and Features

Cover Story: SHUTTLE'S CREW SAW ALIENS
The cover prominently features a headline claiming that the crew of the space shuttle Discovery saw aliens, with a smaller sub-headline stating the shuttle was 'buzzed'. A brief caption mentions that aliens buzzed the shuttle high above Earth, as revealed the previous night.

A Typical British Abduction by Philip Mantle
Philip Mantle details his and his colleagues' research into UFO abductions in Britain, aiming to study them as they have never been studied before. The article presents a case from February 1985 involving a 19-year-old youth in North Wales who claimed to have encountered a UFO. The youth was allegedly taken aboard the craft, transported to a mother ship beyond Pluto, and subjected to telepathic communication and medical examinations, including a burn mark on his arm. The investigators from Contact International, including Derek Mansell, Geoff Ambler, and David Ridge, found the witness to be genuinely disturbed. They noted that this case was 'typical' of British abductions, lacking the small, grey-skinned, bug-eyed aliens and genetic experiments often reported in US cases. The field where the UFO allegedly landed was examined, but no physical evidence was found. The investigators concluded that while the witness experienced something, it might have been a mental concept rather than a physical happening, though the possibility of extraterrestrial transference was considered. The witness had limited prior knowledge of UFO literature. Further interviews were planned.

IUN- ABDUCTION RESEARCH
This section, also by Philip Mantle, discusses the IUN's ongoing research into British abduction cases, including psychological testing of abductees, aiming to replicate US experiments. They are seeking funding for this long-term program, which involves psychologists and hypnotherapists. Readers are encouraged to donate to a special fund to support this research, with donors of £5.00 or more receiving a full report.

Other Content:
The table of contents lists articles such as 'A Critic Writes', 'Roswell: A Federal Case?', 'The Horror', 'View From The Lunatic Fringe', 'Close Encounter in Derbyshire', 'UFO Damages Bush In Staffs', 'Shuttle Cock', and 'The Tristar That Wasn't'. The issue also includes reviews.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, abductions, and critical investigation of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance is clearly one of skepticism towards uncritical acceptance of claims within ufology. Andy Roberts advocates for a more rigorous, questioning approach, emphasizing the need for criticism of both phenomena and the people involved in its study. The magazine positions itself as a platform for open discussion, willing to print diverse viewpoints and to challenge established ideas within the ufology community. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of independent investigation and a critical review of both UK and US UFO literature and cases. The IUN's role as a non-partisan grouping and its commitment to furthering abduction research through funding are also highlighted.

This issue of UFO Brigantia, dated Summer '89, features a prominent article titled "ROSWELL: A FEDERAL CASE?" by Ron Schaffner, which proposes an alternative explanation for the famous 1947 incident. The magazine also includes a "Contactee Corner" section and an article titled "THE HORROR" by Ian Blake, which critiques the John Lear Statement.

A CRITIC WRITES

The issue opens with a section titled "A CRITIC WRITES," which presents a critical review of UFO Brigantia from a magazine called 'Quest.' The reviewer, Jean Sider, dismisses UFO Brigantia as having "no place in the UFO field," calling its writings "bad critical texts and sad disparaging writings" that lack discernment. Sider contrasts the magazine's 'searchers' with the potential of General Twining, who headed USAF intelligence and was privy to significant UFO information. The editorial staff of UFO Brigantia responds with a sarcastic tone, noting that despite the criticism, Sider now subscribes regularly and that the editor of Quest also commented on them, accusing them of lying.

ROSWELL: A FEDERAL CASE?

Ron Schaffner, a UFO investigator, presents a "plausible alternative to the commonly accepted version of events at Roswell, New Mexico on July 2 1947." Schaffner argues that true objectivity requires considering multiple earthly explanations for the UFO phenomena. He questions whether all alleged sightings must be extraterrestrial and suggests that the "crashed saucer syndrome" might be explained by government involvement in illegal testing of cross-state rockets and military experiments, particularly from 1946-1951.

Schaffner details the history of the Hermes Project, established by the Army Ordnance Department, which involved firing numerous V-2 rockets at White Sands. He highlights specific incidents, such as a V-2 rocket that went off-course on May 29, 1947, and landed near Juarez, Mexico, and another V-2 test on July 3, 1947, which he suggests might be confused with the Roswell incident.

He posits that Project Blossom, a continuation of Project Hermes, involved testing ejection canisters and parachute recovery. Five biological flights were conducted, including monkeys and a mouse. Schaffner speculates that the 1980 alien body photos, which some speculated were of a monkey, might be related to these experiments. He proposes that the "tinfoil" material photographed by the Army Air Force was actually part of a special parachute from the July 3 V-2 launch, and that the recovered debris was sent to Wright Field for analysis of the guidance system and cause of malfunction.

The article details the sequence of events surrounding the Roswell incident, from witness sightings on July 2nd to the premature release of a statement by Public Information Officer Lt. Walter G. Haut on July 8th, which claimed the Army Air Force had recovered a "flying disc." Schaffner notes the subsequent retraction and explanation that the object was a downed weather balloon, with a photograph of Major Jesse A. Marcel holding material resembling tinfoil being released.

Schaffner also discusses the FBI's involvement, noting their initial interest but subsequent withdrawal due to suspicion that the Army was using them to limit investigative powers. He suggests a "two-fold concept" of government strategy: leaking information about a crashed saucer and then quickly suppressing it to create a belief system that fosters conspiracy theories, a ploy he calls the "Cosmic Watergate."

CONTACTEE CORNER

This section features a circular letter from Ben Obina, who warns of an impending event where "all questions will be answered." Obina claims that space beings have been on Earth since the dawn of civilization, monitoring human development. He states that these beings have been selecting people for a "definite purpose" and implanting them with a "microscopic implant" surgically inserted into their brain. This implant contains a storehouse of knowledge, intended to prepare humanity for a global event called "the formation," which will release the information contained in the implants. Obina believes that approximately 3 million people worldwide have been implanted, though most are unaware of it. He emphasizes that this is a worldwide program of psychological conditioning to prepare people for the "formation," which he believes will happen very soon.

Obina includes a quote from the Angel in Revelation 7:3-5, mentioning "144,000" who are "predestined." He provides contact information for those wishing to reach him.

THE HORROR

Ian Blake's article critiques the "John Lear Statement" (JLS), calling it a "hoax" and an "occupational hazard in the field of ufology." Blake likens the JLS to "sophisticated documents" sent to researchers, purposing to reveal "secret government documents about crashed UFOs and little green men pickled in bottles." He notes that the JLS incorporates common UFO folklore, such as the Spitzbergen and RAF Bentwaters incidents, and offers explanations for cattle mutilations involving "praying mantis-like EBE's" that feed on offal and use secretions from humans and animals.

Blake draws a parallel between the JLS's lurid details and the "horror movie genre," particularly "Body Horror." He suggests that UFO accounts are reflecting this popular image, with elements like "frightening-looking creatures with enormous eyes, reptilian skin and clawlike fingers" and accounts of armed battles resulting in alleged deaths. He points out Lear's connections to the US intelligence community, including his father's work on the Lear jet and his own alleged missions for the CIA, suggesting Lear might be a "middle man" in a disinformation program.

Blake argues that the JLS's themes, such as "mutilated cows, human and alien corpses, vivisected skulls, expressed brain tissue, severed genitals, and cored rectums," are reminiscent of the "phantasmogoric delirium of Bosch and Breughal the Elder." He concludes that the JLS is a "colossal, well-financed hoax" designed to create a belief system, much like the Roswell incident scenario.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reinterpretation of well-known UFO incidents, particularly Roswell, through a lens of government secrecy and technological experimentation rather than extraterrestrial visitation. The magazine appears to favor skeptical analysis and the "Federal Case Hypothesis," suggesting that many UFO phenomena can be explained by earthly means, including military testing and disinformation campaigns. The editorial stance leans towards questioning sensational claims and exploring the possibility of hoaxes and cover-ups within the UFO community and government agencies. The "Contactee Corner" presents a contrasting view, highlighting a more spiritual and esoteric perspective on alien interaction, though the magazine's overall tone suggests a critical approach to such claims.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: SUMMER '89
Date: 1989-06
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA features a prominent investigation into a close encounter in the Derbyshire Hills, UK, alongside discussions on the MJ-12 controversy, a report on a lecture by Walter Andrus Jnr., and an announcement for an upcoming lecture by Stanton Friedman.

Close Encounter in Derbyshire Hills

The lead article details an investigation by David Clarke and Dave Kelly into a UFO sighting that occurred on April 4th, 1989, near Sheffield. Two 'A' level students, Georgina Kamiska and Nick Glossop, reported seeing a 'top-shaped' object with a row of white lights and a red light on top, which appeared to dart around the sky, disappear, and reappear closer by. The object was described as moving with unusual maneuvers, leading the witnesses to believe it was not a conventional aerial object. The object was observed to be spinning rapidly and seemed to be going into 'hyperspace'. The witnesses followed the object in their car, noting that it hovered above the road in total silence and eventually disappeared in a flash. Subsequent investigation included checks with local police, air bases (RAF Finningley, RAF Topcliffe, RAF Linton-on-Ouse, RAF Shawbury), and the Ministry of Defence (MOD), all of whom reported no unusual activity or similar sightings. The possibility of a low-flying civilian aircraft was considered but deemed unlikely. The report also notes a melted patch of snow found at the suspected landing site, though its connection to the sighting is uncertain. The article concludes by acknowledging that while the witnesses' testimony was found to be truthful and they appeared uninterested in publicity, the possibility of prosaic explanations, such as misidentification of celestial bodies or aircraft, cannot be entirely ruled out, especially given the lack of other reports for that night.

Stop Press: MJ-12 and Disinformation

A brief 'Stop Press' section reveals that Bill Moore, known for his work on the Roswell Incident, has admitted to working for a US government agency involved in spreading UFO disinformation. This revelation casts doubt on the authenticity of the MJ-12 documents and raises questions about the motives behind such disinformation campaigns. The magazine promises a full story in a future issue.

A Report On The Leeds UFO Lecture

This section, written by David Barclay, reports on a lecture given by Walter A. Andrus Jnr., Director of The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), in Leeds. The lecture focused on the 'Gulf Breeze' UFO case. The event generated significant public interest, with the venue reportedly full. Barclay notes Andrus's calm and professional demeanor, contrasting it with the 'ufological histrionics' sometimes associated with American proponents. The lecture presented details of the Gulf Breeze case, which involved a 'singularly unremarkable individual' and alleged 'intergalactic interaction'. Barclay also touches upon the 'alien technology' aspect, expressing disappointment that Andrus implied American ufological inquiries are driven by a desire to 'beat' the USSR, arguing that ufology should not be seen as a competition. A criticism is raised regarding the non-presentation of video material, which was part of the pre-lecture campaign, due to prohibitive hiring costs. The article concludes by stating that the lecture was a success and that Leeds/Bradford could be a viable venue for future UFO congresses.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included:

• Letter 1 (from Andy): Addresses Ian Ridpath's critique of ufological hypotheses, particularly the need for falsifiable predictions. The letter acknowledges the validity of this point, referencing John Spencer and Karl Popper, and draws a parallel with Darwin's theory of evolution, which, while not strictly predictive in detail, offers an elegant framework. It argues that while most UFOs can be explained by mundane phenomena (UAPs, Earthlights, etc.), speculating on the remaining few percent as extraterrestrial is a common trap, citing Reginald Waterfield's assertion that a theory postulating intelligent existence can explain 'practically any phenomenon'. The letter criticizes the lack of rigorous reasoning and disregard for negative evidence in some ufological arguments.
• Letter 2 (from Mr. Philip Mantle): Responds to a claim that articles about the Goddard Amateur Radio Club were a hoax. Mantle explains that the articles were based on information from NASA personnel who confirmed that the broadcasted Space Shuttle communications were not heard on the official NASA downlink, suggesting a potential hoax or misattribution. He provides details about the Goddard Amateur Radio Club's activities and their shortwave frequencies.

NASA Correspondence

A letter from Michael J. Braukus of NASA's Office of Public Affairs to Mr. Philip Mantle addresses claims about articles concerning the Goddard Amateur Radio Club. Braukus clarifies that the articles were a result of what appeared to be a hoax, as the Space Shuttle communications attributed to astronauts were not heard by NASA personnel on the official downlink. He provides information about the Goddard Amateur Radio Club's role in retransmitting Space Shuttle audio and video, and lists their shortwave frequencies.

Upcoming Events

An announcement promotes an upcoming lecture by American ufologist Stanton Friedman, organized by the IUN. The event is expected to be a sell-out, and advance tickets are available. Other attractions include a bookstall and a special IUN lecture program.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and critical thinking in ufology. There is a clear skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims and a concern about disinformation within the field, as highlighted by the 'Stop Press' section regarding Bill Moore and the MJ-12 documents. The magazine appears to favor explanations that are grounded in evidence and logical reasoning, while acknowledging the persistent mystery of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance seems to be one of cautious inquiry, encouraging readers to question and analyze information rather than accepting it at face value. The coverage of the Derbyshire Hills sighting, the Gulf Breeze lecture, and the letters to the editor all reflect this theme of critical examination and the search for credible explanations.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: SUMMER '89
Volume: 3
Date: 1989
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA features several articles and letters discussing UFO phenomena, investigations, and related controversies.

Letters to the Editor

Anthony R. Brown opens the correspondence, reflecting on the academic dismissal of ufology and the tendency for debates to become acrimonious. He notes that Jenny's exclusion of the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) as the sole explanation for UFOs, while still advocating for scientific study, can dismantle arguments. Brown suggests that understanding UFOs requires considering metaphysical and religious aspects beyond pure science, linking them to broader questions about life and the universe.

Manfred Cassirer writes in response to an article by Ian Blake, commending UFO BRIGANTIA for its editorial integrity. Cassirer expresses skepticism about the existence of 'Alan Staithes' and questions Blake's reliance on Carlos Castaneda as an authority on Shamanism, noting Castaneda's absence from a recent study by Kalweit. He also touches upon the potential for ridicule to rebound on critics.

In an editorial note, the magazine acknowledges Manfred's points, particularly regarding Ian Blake and Alan Staithes, humorously suggesting Staithes might be a tulpa. The note also briefly mentions Regina Cullen and Castaneda, advocating for practical application of shamanic techniques if they prove effective, contrasting this with what it terms 'vapid speculation' by ufologists.

Case Investigation: UFO Damages Bush in Staffordshire

This lengthy report details an investigation into an incident that occurred on the night of August 3/4, 1988, near Cannock Chase, Staffordshire. Witnesses Reg Morgan and Gloria Hall reported seeing a circular, luminous object, estimated to be 30 feet in diameter and hovering 30 feet above the ground, with a 'gaseous cloud' touching a hedge. The object then disappeared and reappeared a short distance away. The following day, damage was discovered on the hedge where the object was seen.

Investigator Clive Potter, assisted by Kevin Flannery and Susan Dean, interviewed the witnesses and found their account to be honest. The object was described as a hazy, luminous cloud with a pulsating red light. No noise or odours were detected, but the witnesses reported a strange sense of quietness.

The investigation involved analysis of the damaged hedge, which showed leaves pushed back but not scorched. Samples of branches, soil, and bark were sent for analysis to Dr. Michelle Clare of Sheffield University. Correspondence was also undertaken with Dr. Terence Meaden of TORRO and David Reynolds.

Dr. Clare's examination found no evidence of heat damage or metallic traces. The affected leaves showed severe dehydration. The presence of fungal hyphae and algae ruled out heat exposure. While natural occurrences like farm machinery were considered, no skid marks or tyre marks were found.

Two main hypotheses are explored: a descending air vortex or an 'earthlight' phenomenon. The report notes that the sighting occurred in an area with geological faults and a place name ('Hell Hole') associated with strange events, lending credence to the earthlight hypothesis. The vortex theory, drawing on Dr. Meaden's work on 'mystery circles', suggests that a spinning vortex could create turbulent air currents, static build-up, and even glow in the dark, potentially causing the observed phenomena and damage.

The investigators concluded that a descending vortex was the most likely cause, supported by site examination, witness interviews, laboratory analysis, and topographical and weather data. The report urges a re-examination of similar UFO reports in light of the Vortex Theory.

Shuttle Cock

This article critically examines reports, particularly from The Daily Star, about the space shuttle Discovery crew allegedly seeing an 'alien craft' during a March 1989 flight. The report claims a radio ham taped a conversation between Discovery and Houston indicating an 'alien spacecraft' and a loss of power.

The article expresses skepticism, questioning the source of the 'experts' cited by The Daily Star and highlighting NASA's denial of the incident. It suggests that the 'fire' mentioned might be a coded term for a UFO, but dismisses this as speculative. The article notes that while MUFON is analyzing the tape, the length is insufficient for definitive voice print analysis.

It criticizes the media's tendency to sensationalize UFO reports without thorough primary source verification, suggesting that many such stories, including the Discovery tapes, are hoaxes. The article concludes by stating that while NASA denies the event, the author personally believes they might be telling the truth in this instance.

The Tristar That Never Was

This case study investigates a report that appeared in the London Evening Standard on March 22, 1989, concerning an incident on an aircraft, initially reported as a Tristar, that allegedly dropped thousands of feet and was accompanied by 'multi-coloured lights'.

Investigator Ken Philips contacted Suzy Walton of the London Broadcasting Company, who was on the flight. Walton downplayed the sighting and was evasive about the aircraft's movement. She later refused to provide a formal report, recommending contact with the captain, Robert Taylor. Philips' subsequent letters to Taylor went unanswered.

Mr Richard Harris of British Island Airways (BIA) contacted investigator Roy Dutton, providing details that contradicted the UFO theory. Harris explained that the 'multi-coloured lights' were the result of a French missile test conducted at high altitude over the Atlantic, and the aircraft's 'drop' was a minor, coincidental fall of about 50 feet due to air turbulence, not a UFO. The aircraft was confirmed to be an MD 83, not a Tristar.

The Italian MOD confirmed the object was a French missile. Harris declined to provide precise location and time data, stating they could correlate the observation time with their aircrew's logs. The article concludes that the object was a French missile that had encountered difficulties.

Documents Illustrating Government Investigation

This section presents a document related to Paul Bennewitz and alleged UFO sightings. A memo dated November 10, 1980, details a meeting at Kirtland AFB, NM, attended by various military and civilian personnel, including Dr. Paul F. Bennewitz of Thunder Scientific Laboratory. Dr. Bennewitz presented film and photographs of alleged unidentified aerial objects and claimed to have proof of contact with aliens flying these objects.

He expressed interest in financial assistance from the USAF for his investigation. Dr. Lehman advised him to request a USAF grant. A subsequent note on November 17, 1980, indicates that AFOSI would not become involved in the investigation, and Dr. Bennewitz was advised to seek funding through other channels.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and investigative stance towards UFO reports. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena, it prioritizes rigorous investigation, scientific analysis, and the debunking of hoaxes and misinterpretations. The editorial team appears skeptical of sensationalist media reports and emphasizes the importance of verifying primary sources. There is a clear preference for explanations grounded in known physics or natural phenomena, as seen in the Staffordshire vortex theory and the debunking of the Tristar incident. However, the magazine also entertains broader, more speculative ideas, such as the metaphysical aspects of UFOs mentioned by Anthony Brown, suggesting a nuanced approach that balances skepticism with an open mind to the unexplained.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: SUMMER '89
Volume: 41
Date: Summer 1989
Publisher: IUN (Independent UFO Network)

This issue of UFO Brigantia features reviews of two books and an announcement for an upcoming lecture.

Reviews

Controversy of the Circles: An Investigation of the Crop Circles Mystery

This review, written by Dr Dissonance, discusses the book 'Controversy of the Circles' by Paul Fuller and Jenny Randles, published by BUFORA. The reviewer highlights that the crop circle phenomenon, largely ignored until the early 1980s, has become a major point of contention in ufology and is often linked to UFOs by the media. However, the book argues that the circles mystery is a genuine, tangible, and natural phenomenon, not a misperception or inversion. BUFORA has investigated the phenomenon since its inception, and this book is presented as a definitive work updating their previous publication, 'Mystery of the Circles'.

The booklet is divided into ten chapters, covering the mystery from sociological to physical angles. The first chapter, 'A Social History of the Circles Phenomena' by Jenny Randles, details the early 1980s research by the PROBE team, who obtained a photograph of a mini-whirlwind in a cereal field. The reviewer notes that this evidence is significant because no photograph of a UFO in a cereal field has ever been produced, suggesting a natural origin for the rings, which are not always perfectly circular.

The review acknowledges the controversy stirred by publications like FSR (which has printed pro-UFO circle origin articles) and contrasts this with BUFORA's approach. The book traces the circles' history back beyond the 1980s and across geographical areas, providing evidence for a natural, though often ignored, phenomenon. While acknowledging that hoaxing accounts for a small number of circles, the book dismisses it as the sole cause due to the geographical spread and historical occurrence.

Several pages are dedicated to the characteristics of the circles, including their size, shape, crop spin direction, and the variety of patterns (14 main formations). The book aims to leave the reader fully informed about the circles mystery.

The reviewer notes the press's reluctance to focus on meteorological origins, preferring sensational UFO links. The book, however, discriminates between genuine phenomena and sensationalism, concluding that circles are a naturally produced, non-intelligent phenomenon. Terence Meaden's Vortex Theory is given significant attention as an explanation for the circles' formation and behaviour, though the reviewer finds it 'tenuous at times'. The book's conclusion is that circles are caused by a complex natural phenomenon.

The reviewer addresses the skepticism about nature producing such complex patterns, drawing parallels to the intricate design of snowflakes and the mechanisms of reading and writing. The debate is expected to continue, with the reviewer suggesting that if ufologists wish to remain involved, they must essentially become meteorologists.

The book is recommended by Dr Dissonance, who states that the cornfield circles mystery is 'solved' by Fuller and Randles' work and urges readers to purchase the modestly priced tome.

A warning is issued against attributing any vaguely swirling, gaseous sightings to vortex phenomena simply because the theory has scientific approval. The reviewer cautions against over-using the vortex theory to explain away misperceptions and calls for ufology to contribute more data to science.

The book concludes with separate statements from Fuller and Randles, followed by comments from meteorologists and researchers, presenting conflicting opinions on whether circles can be caused by vortices. The reviewer reiterates that circles remain a mystery of nature, and the real mystery for ufologists is why UFO origins are attached to them.

Yorkshire's Holy Wells and Sacred Springs

This review, by Andy Roberts, discusses the book 'Yorkshire's Holy Wells and Sacred Springs' by Edna Whelan and Ian Taylor, published by Northern Lights. Although peculiar for a UFO magazine, the reviewer supports small publishers like Northern Lights and notes that he himself had intended to research this topic. The book is praised as an excellent example of neo-folklore field research, covering over 90 Holy Wells and Springs in Yorkshire. Each well is described with details on its location, physical appearance, and associated folklore, often accompanied by maps and line drawings. The book is recommended for both home reading and for visiting these sites, many of which are in beautiful locations.

Additional topics covered include well lore, legends, tales of ghosts and goddesses, traditions of healing, prophetic wells, and their community importance. The production quality is highlighted as outstanding, with a striking glossy cover, strong spine, and delicate illustrations, making it the best example of a small publisher's output seen that year. The reviewer urges readers to buy the book to support such work and for its fascinating and informative journey into Yorkshire.

IUN UFO Lecture

This section announces an illustrated lecture titled "Flying Saucers ARE Real" by nuclear physicist Stanton T. Friedman. The lecture is scheduled for Saturday, 28th October, from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm at Sheffield's Library Theatre. It is sponsored by the Independent UFO Network (IUN).

Ticket prices are $3.00 for adults and £2.00 for students/OAPs and children. A 10% reduction is offered for parties of four or more booked in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the door or booked in advance from Philip Mantle in Batley, West Yorkshire.

Stanton T. Friedman has a distinguished background, having spoken at over 600 college campuses and professional groups across the USA and Canada. He has appeared on numerous radio and TV shows and has recently focused on the 1947 Roswell crash and retrieval incident. His professional background includes BS and MS degrees in physics and 14 years of industrial experience in advanced nuclear and space systems, having worked for companies like General Electric and Westinghouse.

Friedman's conviction is that UFOs are intelligently controlled vehicles from other solar systems, and he believes governments have covered up evidence of this. He states that skeptical arguments do not hold up under scrutiny and that a new generation of professionals is becoming involved in the field.

The lecture will cover five large-scale scientific studies of Air Force data, the MJ-12 documents, crashed saucers, alien abductions, interstellar travel, arguments against skeptics like Dr. Carl Sagan, and the probable star system origin of some UFOs. The presentation will include over sixty slides, followed by a question and answer session.

Contact information for further details and advance bookings is provided for Philip Mantle and David Clarke.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to adopt a stance that distinguishes between genuine unexplained phenomena and sensationalism, particularly in the context of crop circles. While acknowledging the mystery and complexity of crop circles, the editorial leaning, as expressed through the review of Fuller and Randles' book, is towards a natural, non-intelligent explanation, contrasting with media portrayals and some ufological circles that link them directly to UFOs. The magazine also shows support for local history and folklore research, as evidenced by the review of the Yorkshire Holy Wells book. The announcement of Stanton T. Friedman's lecture indicates an interest in UFO evidence and the possibility of extraterrestrial origins, with a critical view of government cover-ups and skepticism.

The overall editorial stance seems to be one of critical investigation, seeking rational explanations for phenomena while remaining open to the possibility of extraordinary events, such as those proposed by Stanton Friedman regarding UFOs.