Repas Ufologiques - 2009 11

Magazine Overview

This document is the monthly newsletter from the "Réseau des Repas Ufologiques" (Network of Ufological Dinners) for November 2009. It details the network's activities, upcoming events, and discussions related to ufology. The publication emphasizes a commitment to serious and scientific investigation of the UFO phenomenon.

Network Activities and Changes

The newsletter reports that the Repas Ufologiques network was very active in October, with numerous free information evenings and media appearances. It notes a significant change in the Toulon chapter, with the suppression of its previous format due to sectarian influences and the establishment of a new team with a more scientific orientation. The Colmar chapter has also closed due to the departure of a collaborator. New requests for chapters in Annecy are being processed. The publication encourages individuals to start their own Repas Ufologiques in their cities, emphasizing that a small group of 5-10 people is sufficient for a meeting focused on discussing UFOs.

Emphasis on Scientific Rigor and Combating Sectarianism

A strong emphasis is placed on the rule that Repas Ufologiques must not have a sectarian character. The orientation is strictly serious and scientific. The article stresses the sensitivity of the subject and the need for vigilance. The network collaborates with authorities and advises members to inform the MIVILUDES commission (responsible for monitoring sectarian dangers) if they encounter dubious organizations.

Coordination and New Initiatives

Christian Comtesse, who leads the Strasbourg chapter, has taken over the coordination of the Repas Ufologiques Network. New ideas are being implemented, and a meeting of all chapter leaders is planned in Paris for November. This allows for more time to manage the network's website and blog, which target a different audience.

Conference Reports and Highlights

October featured interesting conferences, including one in Rennes with Stephen Basset from the USA, where the Repas Ufologiques network was presented. Laurent Duval of Repas de Rennes presented his "Virtual Radar" project. The event, held at the prestigious University of Bretagne, was well-received. In Paris, a similar conference with Stephen Basset included a video conference with astronaut Edgar Mitchell, attracting over 330 people.

The newsletter expresses gratitude to all speakers who present their work at the Repas Ufologiques, acknowledging their contribution to the network's public recognition despite potential external pressures.

Upcoming Events and Special Features

Rodez (November 14, 2009): A Repas Ufologique is planned in Rodez, featuring a review of 2009 ufological news and a screening of current ufological films. A special first will be an intervention by Dominique Rousseau, a storyteller and double bassist, who will discuss her show themed around ovnis.

Toulon (November 18, 2009): The Toulon chapter, under a new responsible and at a new location, will host Michel F., a former military member stationed at the Albion Plateau. He will discuss his experiences and shed light on the events surrounding alleged UFO sightings near the base. The event will include a special video presentation.

Paris (November 3, 2009): Jean Luc Rivera will present on the history of Airships and UFOs from 1896 to 1947, focusing on dirigible-shaped UFOs and their potential material nature.

Albi (November 7, 2009): The Albi chapter resumes with presentations by François on a specific pilot/UFO case and by JP Varenne on multi-witness observations from the 1954 wave, comparing them with current scientific advancements.

Montpellier (November 20, 2009): This meeting will revisit unexplained cases. Note the change in venue for Montpellier Repas Ufologiques.

Clermont Ferrand (November 6, 2009): Luc Cotte will lead a discussion where participants can freely share their observations and thoughts on the UFO dossier.

Nice (Second Repas Ufologique): This event was a great success, attracting over 100 people. The venue was spacious, offering a buffet at an affordable price.

Book Reviews and Promotions

OVNI, L'AFFAIRE VARGINHA: A graphic novel by Philippe Auger about the Varginha incident in Brazil, described as a significant event in modern ufology. The book is 166 pages and was released in November 2009.

FOTOCAT Project: The FOTOCAT Project by Juan Ballester Olmos has been updated, featuring a database of 9,650 cases, new publications, videos, military documents, and Michel Monnerie files.

Excellent Conference in Courpière: A conference by Luc Cotte in Courpière was well-attended (over 70 people), despite a concurrent popular radio show recording. The audience showed great interest in the history of UFOs and the need for study, with many media outlets reportedly classifying the subject as top secret.

Portuguese And Extraterrestrials In The XX Century: An anthology of works by 19 Portuguese researchers analyzing the evolution of the UFO and ET scene in Portugal during the 20th century, covering around 800 reports.

Operations "Suricate"

The "Suricate Operation" is a citizen sky surveillance initiative that began in 2005. Participants register and, upon spotting an unusual object, contact the network via SMS or phone. Their observations are immediately transmitted to other participants in the vicinity. The operation has involved 150-300 people and up to 15 countries. The next operation was scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2009.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the organization and growth of local ufology groups (Repas Ufologiques), the importance of scientific investigation, the need to combat misinformation and sectarianism, and the reporting of significant UFO cases and related research. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of serious, scientific, and evidence-based ufology, while actively distancing itself from any form of sectarianism or unsubstantiated claims. The network aims to inform the public and foster a community of researchers and enthusiasts.