SUFOG Newsletter No 087-88

Magazine Overview

This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, numbered 87 and 88, covers the period of January/February 1998. The publication is from the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG) and focuses on UFO-related news, sightings, and discussions.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Steve Gerrard, reflects on the year 1997, describing it as a year of controversy, particularly with the Roswell incident resurfacing and ongoing debates about what crashed there. Gerrard mentions new video footage from Mexico of a saucer-shaped object, but expresses skepticism due to its filming location within a computer/video company. He notes that the Roswell autopsy footage received little media attention and that Ray Santilli has seemingly disappeared. The editorial also marks the death of astronomer and UFO skeptic Carl Sagan. A concerning article from the Southampton Evening Echo dated December 19th is highlighted, detailing a Taiwanese cult's fear of mass suicide in Dallas, Texas, where members allegedly planned to be picked up by flying saucers. Gerrard draws a parallel to the Heaven's Gate cult suicide in March 1997, questioning the motivations behind such groups.

The editor then discusses the Southampton UFO Group's performance in 1997, deeming it not a great year. The group averaged 30 members and exchanged magazines with 30 other groups globally. However, group meetings were poorly attended, with numbers ranging from 5 to 15 people. Guest lectures were also disappointing, with only 30-35 attendees for Roy Lake and a mere 9 for Paul Vigay. Gerrard expresses hope for better attendance in 1998, starting with speaker Matthew Williams.

Financially, the group lost around £80 in October due to attending the Contact International UFO Research conference in Oxford. Their balance for 1997 was £29.00, with £27.00 needed for hall hire in the first half of 1998. The group received only 10 direct UFO sightings and a few indirectly reported cases. Gerrard mentions his involvement in a UFO course at a local college, committed to a 5-year role as moderator if enough numbers register.

Despite the challenges, the group managed three skywatches in the summer of 1997, during one of which a member videoed a golden object in the evening sky. Gerrard concludes by thanking several individuals for their support: group members Bill Smith and Ernie Sears, Roy Lake, Larry Dean, Tom Trubridge, Paul Vigay, Matthew Williams, Steve Rider, Dave Probert, Dorothy Imbert, and his wife Anne.

Regional Articles

Pages 2 and 3 list a comprehensive collection of regional newspaper articles from May 1996 that reported on UFO sightings and related phenomena across the UK. These include reports from various local newspapers such as the Cheadle Times, Glasgow Evening Times, Scottish Daily Express, Liverpool Daily Post, and many others, detailing sightings of strange lights, mysterious objects, close encounters, and UFO scares.

Local Articles, Crop Circle Articles, National Articles, and Magazine Articles

Pages 4 and 5 continue this extensive listing. Local articles cover sightings in Southampton and Portsmouth. Crop circle articles focus on mysteries in cereal fields. National articles from major newspapers like the Daily Mail and The Independent discuss UFOs, alien encounters, the X-Files, and the Roswell incident, often quoting Nick Pope. Magazine articles from publications like Psychic News and The Big Issue are also listed.

Southampton UFO Group Details and Contact Numbers

Page 5 provides subscription details for the SUFOG Newsletter, costing £5 per year. It also lists BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) subscription costs and contact information for Mr. Michael Hudson. A BUFORA Weekly News Update hotline is provided. Information about Southampton's First Internet Cafe, offering internet access and training, is also included, along with website addresses for Smitty's UFO Page and Nexus Magazine.

Crucially, this page lists numerous group contact numbers for UFO research organizations across the UK, including Cornwall UFO Research Group, West Wales Paranormal Group, London UFO Studies, Isle of Wight UFO Society, and many more.

Television and Radio Reviews

Pages 6, 7, 8, and 9 feature a detailed review by Steve Gerrard of television and radio programs from December 1997 to February 1998. These include:

• Geraldo (December 30th, 1997): A program titled 'UFO - Yes or No', described as interesting with a lively studio audience and guests, covering UFOs and abductions.
• Sightings: UFO Confrontation, Mansfield, Ohio (January 1st, 1998): Recounts an old sighting from October 1973 where a helicopter encountered a UFO and was 'pulled upwards'.
• Sightings: Montreal Mass Sighting (January 2nd, 1998): Discusses a large mass sighting in Canada.
• The Extraordinary (January 13th, 1998): Interviewed people claiming alien abduction/encounters in Australia, with witnesses showing marks and having to give up careers.
• Ch 5 TV (January 1998): Screened a program about cattle mutilations, described as not for the faint-hearted.
• Louis Theroux's Weird Weekends (January 22nd, 1998): Filmed in America, Louis Theroux met with individuals involved in UFO phenomena. He encountered Thor Templar and the Alien Resistance Movement, who sell merchandise and claim ETs are harmful. Theroux also visited Crestone and met cattle mutilation expert Chris O'Brien, who discussed the 'Snippy' case. The program concluded with Theroux and Thor shooting at flying saucers and Greys. Gerrard found the program interesting but felt it didn't reflect UFOlogy as expected, rating it 4 out of 10 for effort.

Page 7 continues the review, noting Gerrard's overall thoughts that Louis Theroux must have been mad not to believe, but acknowledges that the people interviewed might not convert a skeptic. The program finished with Louis and Thor shooting at flying saucers and Greys.

Page 8 and 9 provide an extensive list of television and radio items reviewed from 1997 and early 1998, categorized by date and program title (e.g., 'The Why Files', 'EarthScan', 'Sightings', 'Radio 5 Live', 'Talk Radio'). These cover a vast array of topics including Roswell, UFO activities, abductions, cattle mutilations, Area 51, crop circles, and specific sightings across the UK and internationally.

Stop Press

A 'Stop Press' notice announces Steve Gerrard's upcoming appearance on BBC Southern Counties Radio on January 31st, 1998, at 7 pm, where he will discuss his best 5 sightings/places to go skywatching. Readers are encouraged to record the program if possible.

Group Meeting

A report on the group meeting held on January 11th, 1998, states that 7 members attended. The first half of the meeting discussed Matthew Williams's upcoming talk and advertising for it. The second half included a quiz, identification of a Hampshire police spotter plane, a segment of Mexican video footage, and Gerrard's interview on 'The Why Files'. A total of £24.70 was raised for the group's funds.

Next Issue of SUFOG

Teasers for the next issue include articles on 'Strange Luminosity's witnessed at Cherhill, Wiltshire in 1993', 'Lionel Beer - The Mystery of the Black Triangles', a book review of 'A Covert Agenda', the latest UFO reports received by SUFOG, and a review of Matthew Williams's talk.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the ongoing UFO controversies, particularly the Roswell incident, and the reporting of numerous UFO sightings from various media outlets and personal accounts. The editorial stance, as expressed by Steve Gerrard, is one of critical engagement with UFO phenomena, acknowledging the interest but often expressing skepticism towards sensational claims or media portrayals, as seen in his review of the Louis Theroux program. There's a strong emphasis on documenting and sharing information through the newsletter and group meetings, despite challenges like low attendance and financial constraints. The issue also highlights the importance of media monitoring and the role of UFO research groups in collecting and disseminating information.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 11

This issue of the SUFOG Newsletter presents a collection of magazine reviews, offering a diverse look at the UFO and paranormal landscape. The editor notes the accumulation of magazines, with a particular focus on reviews due to time constraints.

Phenomena Scotland

This section highlights a new publication from veteran Malcolm Robinson, featuring articles on ghosts, a UFO landing in Fife, UFO photos, and questions about the "greenhouse effect." The review mentions a book about the Benhar Encounter and provides subscription details.

Awareness

"Conference Issue" from Contact International UFO Research is described as a pocket edition covering topics like the controversial Moon landing, the Mars probe verdict, the Diana incident, and Australian abductions. It also includes sighting summaries.

The Caller

This Jersey and Channel Islands Newsletter Service reviews UFO Research Team reports from 1997, including a "rather negative" report and a guide to skywatching. It offers various package deals for subscriptions.

UFO Magazine (UK)

This review focuses on the British UFO Magazine, highlighting an article by Tony Dodd who challenges Susan Blackmore's views on UFO experiences. It also mentions a letter from a reader challenging Blackmore to explain their experiences.

Skysearch

Originating from the Brighton area, Skysearch covers a wide range of UFO topics, including articles on the Rudloe Manor Secret Citadel, "Flying Triangles," and a Swiss sighting of a strange fireball. It also features a crop circle article.

CUFORG

The Cornwall UFO Research Magazine is described as well-printed, featuring a cartoon by Geoff Harbett, doubts about an "alien embryo," and tales of contact and abduction. It also publishes an annual Sightings Summary.

Aliens

This glossy magazine from Exeter is found to be interesting, though some UFO photos are deemed suspect. It covers close encounters, the Mars probe information, and sightings from "Down Under."

UFO Magazine (Californian)

This Californian source is noted as having no relation to the British UFO Magazine and is described as featuring "dummies."

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 12

Intelligence by BUFOSC

Editor Eric Morris's style is described as condemnatory, but he is praised for promoting UFOlogy. The review mentions his lectures linking UFOs with "MIB" and "Mars Attacks" films, and his critique of Kevin McClure's work. Subscription details are provided.

Circular Forum

This publication from Gloucestershire covers crop circles and UFOs, seeking feedback from members. It mentions an AGARD report on military and "genuine" UFOs.

UFO Magazine (British) - Continued

The review continues to discuss the British UFO Magazine, noting an article by Tony Dodd challenging Susan Blackmore. The reader's letter to Dr. Blackmore is highlighted.

UFO Magazine (British) - Continued

This section details the magazine's content, including UFO sightings in France, scientific collaboration, and a review of "Left at East Gate." It also covers a Brazilian pilot's encounter with a "gigantic" craft.

UFO Magazine (British) - Continued

The review touches upon the "Multi hypothesis Approach" and the Portland Encounter, detailing the craft, occupants, and experiences. It also mentions the Independent Network of UFO Researchers Seminar.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 13

UFO Magazine (British) - Continued

The review continues with the British UFO Magazine, mentioning its coverage of "sexuality and the eye," "Eroticism," and "Innocence, Transmutation." It also notes UFO sightings in the London area, Ghosts, Life After Death, and "Treacle Mines."

TEMS News

This newsletter from November '97 covers paranormal topics, including UFO sightings over Thorpe, Merton, and Wimbledon. It also mentions a book by Jim Schnabel on REMOTE VIEWERS and a mention of "The Great UFO Hoax."

Letter From John Sayer (Response to Andy Thomas)

John Sayer responds to Andy Thomas's defense of the controversial Olivers Castle video, arguing that Thomas redefines "skeptic" to suit his argument. Sayer criticizes the magazine "Alien Encounters" for promoting hoaxing.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 14

Hypnosis, Is It a Reliable Tool to Retrieve Hidden Subconscious Memory of a UFO Abduction?

This article by Malcolm Robinson discusses the controversial use of hypnotic regression in UFO abduction research. Robinson argues that hypnosis can be a valuable tool for retrieving suppressed memories, provided it is conducted by qualified professionals. He addresses criticism from Kevin McClure, who advocates against its use.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 15

Radio Interview: Derek Jameson & Philip Mantle

This is a transcript of a follow-up radio interview discussing Philip Mantle's UFO hotline and the establishment of UFO evening classes at an adult education center. They discuss the course content, which covers UFOs worldwide, classic cases, and theories.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 16

Radio Interview: Derek Jameson & Philip Mantle (Continued)

The interview continues, with Philip Mantle explaining the course structure and enrollment. They discuss the growing public interest in UFOs, media attention, and Hollywood's involvement. Mantle also shares details about interesting calls received through the hotline, including a photographic case near Brighton and a report from an RAF member in Suffolk.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 17

Radio Interview: Derek Jameson & Philip Mantle (Continued)

The interview continues with discussion of a case in Liverpool involving a claimed abduction experience. Mantle contrasts the number of reported encounters in the US with those in the UK. He also touches upon the Aetherius Society's beliefs.

A Crop of Articles

This section critiques the magazine "Alien Encounters" for its focus on crop circles and its promotion of hoaxing. It criticizes an article by Chris Kenworthy that suggested making crop circles attracts UFOs and provided instructions on creating fake sightings.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 18

"Alien Encounters" Criticism (Continued)

The critique of "Alien Encounters" continues, with the author detailing how the magazine insulted investigators' intelligence by suggesting they needed to be shown how to eliminate fraud. The author points out flaws in a video claiming to show balls of light and a crop formation.

"The Great Crop Circle Paradox" and "Project Maxim"

This section refers to an article in "Alien Encounters" about "Project Maxim," which is described as a hoax crop circle. The author notes that this was a virtual copy of a piece that appeared previously in "Sussex Circular."

"Neglected Evidence - The Crop Circle Lights"

This article from "Alien Encounters" is criticized for suggesting that evidence of "Earth Lights" is ignored by investigators. The author refutes this, stating that such phenomena are well-known within the crop circle community.

"Destined Encounters" and "Attracting UFO's"

This section discusses two articles by Chris Kenworthy in "Alien Encounters." The first details his experiences making hoax UFO landing sites and crop circles. The second article, "Attracting UFO's," is criticized for suggesting that making crop circles attracts UFOs and for providing instructions on how to create fake UFO sightings.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 19

Letter From John Sayer (Continued)

John Sayer continues his critique of "Alien Encounters," specifically addressing Chris Kenworthy's article "Attracting UFO's." Sayer argues that Kenworthy's advice on making crop circles is irresponsible and encourages hoaxing.

Article and cartoon by G. HARROP

This section mentions an article and cartoon by G. Harropp, with a reference to a crop circle book that stirred excitement.

The Visitors (Comic Strip)

A comic strip titled "The Visitors" is presented, featuring aliens discussing humans and their activities, including filming.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER - Page 20

Criticism of "Alien Encounters" (Continued)

The author continues to criticize "Alien Encounters," particularly an article about the Olivers Castle video, arguing that the magazine's stance insults serious investigators. The author points out flaws in a video claiming to show balls of light and a crop formation.

"Project Maxim" and Crop Circle Hoaxing

The article discusses "Project Maxim" and the creation of hoax crop circles, noting that "Alien Encounters" published an article on this topic. The author expresses skepticism about the magazine's intent.

"Country File UK" and Lucy Pringle

This section reviews a "Country File UK" program featuring crop circle researcher Lucy Pringle. Pringle discusses anomalies found in crop circles, including man-made ones, and advises against entering formations for those with medical conditions.

"Look Before You Speak..."

This is a title that precedes the discussion of Lucy Pringle and crop circle formations, suggesting a cautionary approach to statements about the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The SUFOG Newsletter consistently adopts a critical stance towards sensationalism and hoaxing within the UFO community. The editor emphasizes the importance of factual reporting, rigorous investigation, and the use of qualified professionals in research. There is a clear distinction made between genuine phenomena and fabricated events, with a particular focus on debunking misleading information presented in some UFO publications. The newsletter champions a serious, evidence-based approach to UFOlogy, while also acknowledging the public's interest and the need for open discussion and debate. The use of hypnosis in witness recall is presented as a point of contention, with the newsletter advocating for its careful and professional application. The critique of "Alien Encounters" highlights a strong editorial stance against magazines that appear to promote or condone hoaxing.

This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, dated January 1998, features a personal account of a strange nocturnal encounter, reports on 'big cat' sightings, and extensive coverage of crop circles. The newsletter also includes a supplement called 'Pucks Review' dedicated to crop circle analysis and research.

Personal Experience: Funny Old World.

The issue opens with a personal testimony from an individual who woke up on January 19, 1998, to a figure by their bedside. The experience involved a bright flash of white light, the figure drinking water from a glass, and a subsequent disappearance. The author questions whether the event was a dream or a real encounter, detailing attempts to set a trap for the visitor and the strange interaction with an empty glass.

Sightings and Reports

Big Cat Sightings: The newsletter reports on two separate incidents from the Southampton Evening Echo. A woman from Fareham described encountering a black puma-like creature near her house. Another woman, while walking her dog, encountered a creature described as black with a long tail and long legs, taller than a domestic cat. The report notes that cat experts consider the possibility of such sightings remote.

Editor's Comment: The editor links these 'big cat' sightings to the government's announced plans to investigate the phenomenon, expressing a sense of validation.

ASTRASEARCH and Group Support

David H. Quickenden, Chairman of ASTRASEARCH, writes a letter to the editor addressing the challenges of producing a newsletter with an excessive workload and lack of member support. He emphasizes the importance of active members contributing to their groups and highlights the vital service provided by such organizations, even if support is sometimes lacking. He encourages the continuation of the SUFOG Newsletter.

Southampton UFO Group Event

A promotional announcement details an upcoming talk by Matthew Williams, presented by The Southampton UFO Group. The event is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 1998, from 3 PM to 5 PM at the Woolston Community Center. Ticket prices are £5.00 each, and videos, audio tapes, and magazines will be on sale. Latest video material from Mexico will also be featured.

Pucks Review: Crop Circle Analysis

Editorial: Graham Harrop introduces 'Pucks Review,' a supplement to the SUFOG Newsletter focused on crop circle matters. He states his intention to counteract misinformation and provide a more honest treatment of the subject. Harrop emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'circlemakers' and believes a real phenomenon is at work, not just hoaxes. He promises not to commercialize the subject or create hoaxes himself, focusing solely on the truth.

Crop Circle Formations (1997):

• Zertenberg, Germany (Wheat): A 112-foot diameter circle noted for its labyrinth or maze design, representing growth and spiritual development, with parallels to ancient images and the Nasca lines.
• Lindau am Nordufer der Schlei, Germany (Wheat): An overall dimension of 400' x 177', with themes similar to formations in England from 1990, such as boxes and claws.
• Cuxton, Kent (Wheat): Features multiple circles of varying sizes and a ring of circles, with a diameter of approximately 145 feet.
• Nieuwerkerk, Zeeland, Holland (Wheat): A formation with a middle circle in each arm of seven, measuring 75 feet.
• Altrip, Germany (Wheat): An overall length of 130 feet.
• Hooghalen, Holland (Rye): An overall length of 243 feet.

Harrop questions the authenticity of some European formations but finds them visually impressive. He also notes two visual challenges from England and Holland, pondering whether they are strange forces at work or synchronous hoaxing.

Researcher Opinions on 1997 Formations:

• John Haddington (13th Earl of Haddington): Considers the two Koch Fractals at Silbury Hill and Milk Hill as the most exceptional events of 1997 due to their inseparable nature. He also highlights the Etchilhampton Ryvitta or Microchip formation for its linear symmetry.
• John Sayer: Describes the formation at Longstock and Danebury Ring in Hampshire as elaborate but surprisingly lacking physical flattening. He notes minimal scuffing of the wheat bloom and less damage to underlying chalk compared to other formations.

The Cereologist Journal Review:

The review of 'The Cereologist' (No. 20) discusses its content, including conclusions on the Milk Hill inscription of 1991, a letter from Ray Cox on formation groupings, and observations by Eric Beckjord on the mischievous nature of circlemakers. It also mentions Julian Richardson's claim of seeing balls of light and John Lundberg's evidence that hoaxers might be under scrutiny from 'real circlemakers.' The review details an experience of seeing flashes of light in a crop circle field, described as emanating from the back of the retina. Lighter moments include an opinion from 'Daredevil aviator' J.J. Evendon on the euphoria of airborne crop circle hunting. The journal also lists related books and videos and questions the current relevance of the C.C.C.S.

George Wingfield Poem and John Michell:

The review mentions a poem by George Wingfield and John Michell's questioning of how the Koch Fractal could have been hoaxed, with Wingfield's poetic reply. The journal is recommended for its thought-provoking content.

The Cereologist Publication Details:

The journal is published three times a year, with a UK subscription of £10 (including P+P) and Europe at £12. Cheques and postal orders should be made out to 'THE CEREOLOGIST' and sent to The Bungalow, Clements FARM, Wheatley Lane, Kingsley, Bordon, Hants. GU35 9PA.

Cheesefoot Head Punchbowl Event

An announcement from the Portsmouth News details a May Bank holiday pop festival to be held at Cheesefoot Head, organized by the MEAN FIDDLER ORGANISATION, expecting around 40,000 people. The area is known for crop circle activity. The event is scheduled for May 2nd to 3rd.

Closing Remarks

Graham Harrop concludes 'Pucks Review,' thanking those who contributed and expressing gratitude to the crop circles for their inspiration. He signs off with the thoughts of 'RET' and 'ZET.'

The Visitors (Cartoon)

A cartoon titled 'The Visitors' depicts several alien figures. One figure, labeled 'Ret,' expresses disbelief in world change and glyphs from the gods, questioning 'Zet.' 'Zet' responds that they miss the point and that the object is like a farm or landmark. Another figure questions if it's a hoax, with a response that it will make a great aerial shot. A final dialogue suggests the figures are not 'ours' and expresses relief.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around personal experiences with unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and encounters, and the ongoing mystery of crop circles. There is a strong emphasis on research, critical analysis, and the pursuit of truth, as exemplified by Graham Harrop's editorial stance in 'Pucks Review.' The newsletter also touches upon the challenges of maintaining support for UFO research groups and the importance of community engagement. The editorial stance is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to question and explore the unexplained, while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims and potential hoaxes.