SUFOG Newsletter No 089-90

Magazine Overview

This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, numbers 89 and 90, covers the period of March/April 1998. The newsletter is published by SUFOG (Southampton UFO Group) and is based in the UK. The cover features a striking illustration with the headline "MAKE ME YOUR LEADER, EARTHLINGS", hinting at themes of political engagement with the UFO phenomenon.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Steve Gerrard, highlights a busy start to 1998 for the group, with three reported sightings, more sightings of the 'Mystery' cat, and appearances on radio and television programs. It mentions an upcoming lecture by Matthew Williams and expresses anticipation for what the rest of 1998 might hold. The editorial also introduces a new political party, the 'Alien Visitor's Political Party', led by 'Mystic Merlin' (George Vernon), which aims to challenge for political leadership with a manifesto including giving children the vote. Gerrard expresses skepticism about Nick Pope's upcoming book, suggesting it might be a way to subsidize his position and pass on information without advancing UFOlogy.

Regional and Local Press Articles (June 1996)

Page 2 provides an extensive list of regional newspaper articles from June 1996 that reported on UFOs. These articles cover a wide range of topics, from villages being buzzed by UFOs and 'flying triangles' to claims of alien landings and close encounters. Local press articles from Hampshire and Southampton are also included, discussing the 'truth is out there' and a lid slowly opening on the UFO mystery.

Crop Circle Articles and Newspaper Unknowns

Page 3 lists articles related to crop circles from June 1996, including reports from Southampton and Andover newspapers discussing theories and expert opinions. A single entry from an unknown newspaper quotes UFO believers sharing their experiences.

National Newspapers and Magazine Articles

Further listings on page 3 detail articles from national newspapers in June 1996, such as 'The Guardian' reviewing Nick Pope's book 'Open Skies - Closed Minds', and 'The Independent' reporting on UFO sightings and believers. Magazine articles from 'Focus', 'Woman's Realm', and 'UK Press Gazette' are also mentioned, with titles like 'Keeping an open mind' and 'It's official - UFOs do exist'.

Recent UFO Activity Over Hampshire and Dorset

Page 3 also details three UFO cases under investigation by SUFOG:

• Case Ref: SG/1/98: A red, lozenge-shaped object observed for a few seconds moving south to north with no sound and a fin on top.
• Case Ref: SG/2/98: A disc-shaped object, white in color, approximately 60ft in diameter and at an altitude of 1,500 ft, heading from Winchester to Southampton.
• Case Ref: SG/3/98: An object sighted between Alresford and Kingsworthy, with a photograph taken. The witness observed three hazy red/orange beams of light on the underside of the object, which then turned on its side before disappearing.

Television and Radio Reviews

Page 5 features reviews by Steve Gerrard of television and radio programs from February to April 1998.

• BBC Southern Counties Radio (Jan 31, 1998): Gerrard recounts a challenging experience trying to broadcast live, ultimately being interviewed by phone. He managed to promote his book 'Flying Saucers From Outer Space' and discussed a photograph of a rhino.
• Fortean Times (Jan 30, 1998): This program explored the 'Men in Black' phenomenon, featuring clips from the film and interviews with Jenny Randles. It also discussed a sighting by Mr. Templeton and an alleged visit by two MIBs to Colin Shearer. Nick Pope's belief that MIBs might be government agents or a way to deter witnesses is mentioned.
• GMTV (Feb 3, 1998): A program featuring Ernie Sears, James Millen, Nina Pendred, and Ellen Jameson discussing paranormal matters. The review notes the comfortable studio setting and the presenter's introduction of the guests.
• GMTV (Feb 27, 1998): A review by Ernie Sears of a program featuring T. Good and Chris French discussing the Roswell incident and alleged alien artifacts. The presenter's skepticism is noted, with phrases like 'Are aliens on earth or are you just a nut case'.
• CH4: For the love of: Alien Abductions (Mar 9, 1998): This program featured a panel of six abductees, including James Millen and Elsie Oakenden. The review highlights the similarities in personal accounts and the sometimes humorous and disturbing aspects, with the presenter, Richard Maidley, showing interest in the sexual aspects.
• GMTV (Mar 11, 1998): A review of 'The Basement' program, which is not detailed.
• GMTV (Mar 24, 1998): A review of a program on ITV that discussed abductions, with people relating accounts. The presenter, Richard Maidley, is described as intrusive.
• GMTV (Mar 3, 1998): A brief mention of a Mexican Sightings segment.
• CH5: Espresso (Feb 5, 1998): Ernie Sears appeared on this morning program with other guests, discussing paranormal topics. The review notes the comfortable setting and the presenter's introduction.

Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears Esq.

Page 7 and 8 feature reviews by Ernie Sears of various newspaper and magazine articles.

• Psychic News (Jan 10, 1998): A review of an 'Alien Musical Comedy' play about alien invasion, ET communications, and abductions.
• The Times (Feb 6, 1998): A letter discussing the paranormal and the case of Helen Duncan, a medium accused of witchcraft.
• The Telegraph (February): Reviews of several books, including 'The Dreamland Chronicles', 'The Legends of Area 51', 'Alien Base', 'Earths Encounters with Extraterrestrials' by Timothy Good, and 'The Sirius Mystery' by Robert Temple. The review notes the cynicism of critics Jonathan Sale and Adrian Berry.
• Sunday Telegraph (Feb 22, 1998): An item about two Weymouth police officers mistaking the planet Venus for a UFO, suggesting this is a standard MoD response.
• Southern Daily Echo (Feb 23, 1998): A front-page feature on 'Mystic Merlin from Bristol' and his 'Alien Visitors Party'.
• Daily Telegraph (Feb 12, 1998): An article connecting to a Mars Orbiter photo suggesting a river and evidence of massive floods on Mars.
• Mail on Sunday (Mar 1, 1998): An article about the Menwith Hill listening station and alleged US snooping on communications worldwide.
• Daily Telegraph (Mar 4, 1998): An article about a book by Dougie Dixon, 'Greenworld', discussing alien life and antigravity discoveries.
• Daily Telegraph (Mar 6, 1998): A front-page picture about the 'water on the Moon' discovery and plans to explore space.
• Daily Telegraph (Mar 13, 1998): An article about a "doomsday" scenario involving a massive asteroid heading towards Earth.
• Daily Mail (Mar 13, 1998): An article featuring Jenny Randles blaming 'crop artists' for crop circle hoaxes.
• Southern Daily Echo (Press Column): An item about US Vice President Al Gore instructing NASA to broadcast live video pictures of Earth.
• Daily Telegraph (Date not specified): An article suggesting a meteorite is further away than estimated.

Magazine Reviews by Ernie Sears

Page 9 features reviews of various magazines and publications.

• ENIGMA (Issue 15): Praised for its editorial on 'The Shift', 'The Awakening', and 'time speeding up'. It also covers crop circles, anti-gravity, Black Holes, and a CIA cover-up.
• UFOlogy: Reviews an interview with Jim Marrs about his book 'Alien Agenda' and an article on abductions.
• SKYLINK (Issue 21): Features a piece by Nick Pope and sighting reports. It also mentions Roy Lake's plan for a large protest.
• SKYWATCHERS (Issue 18): Includes an interview with Cerealogist Editor Anne Brocklehurst and a Bob Dean video review.
• ENIGMA (Article): Mentions an article by Len Farra on pyramids and pre-civilizations, and an article by Sheridan Lane on non-humans and world responsibility.
• SUFOG (Review): The newsletter itself receives praise for its interesting UFO sighting report and conference reports.
• UFO KENTS Conference Report: Details a conference held at Butlins Hotel.
• ALIEN ENCOUNTERS: Features editorial questions on UFOs and crop circles, and a mention of John Glenn's space flight.

Other Articles and Reviews

Page 10 continues with reviews and articles:

• 'WAS ROSWELL 'ALIEN' A MONKEY'?: A regular column by Nick Redfern discussing alleged Nazi UFOs and the Roswell incident.
• BIG Nevada UFO Conference: A preview of the event.
• OVNI: A bi-monthly issue with an editorial on the 'free exchange of UFO information' and items on the Duke of Edinburgh's felicitations.
• UNSOLVED UFO SIGHTINGS: Features articles on 'walk-ins', Bentwaters Cover-up, secret bases, and Rendlesham Forest.
• 'DOWN TO EARTH': Covers the Essex and London UFO Network, including a 'Mexican Summer' sighting report.
• Roy Dutton: Discusses his technical work linking to UFO craft.
• 'Beyond Roswell': A book review.
• 'Alien Contact... the first fifty years': A book review.
• 'Secret Societies': A topic discussed.
• Wiltshire crop circles: Visited by Roy Hales.
• UFO MAGAZINE: Graham Birdsall's former 'Quest' ditto, described as robust.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, media coverage of UFO phenomena, crop circles, alien abductions, and the perceived involvement of government agencies and secrecy. The editorial stance, particularly from Steve Gerrard, appears to be critical of certain aspects of UFOlogy, such as Nick Pope's work and the potential for sensationalism in media reporting. There is a strong emphasis on reporting and reviewing various media outlets that cover UFO topics, from local newspapers to national television programs and magazines. The newsletter also serves as a platform for reporting recent UFO cases investigated by SUFOG and for providing contact information for other UFO research groups.

This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, dated January 1998, is priced at £2.25 and published by Quest Publications Ltd. The cover features the magazine title and a small illustration of a cat.

Contents and Articles

Editorial and General Commentary

The editorial begins by referencing a claim of being the 'world's best-selling UFO publication' and expresses skepticism towards certain 'natural manifestations solutions'. It mentions Tony Dodd's retirement from public UFO speaking and his past participation in a Dorchester conference. The writer also notes the price of the magazine and provides subscription details.

Magazine Reviews

MALTA UFO RESEARCH: The January issue is described as slim and neatly printed, with plans to organize a Regional Mediterranean UFO Conference. A front-page report details a giant rotating lights disc sighting in the Bavarian Alps in January 1998.

THE CROPWATCHER: This magazine is noted for its well-produced format and focus on 'earth' matters. It concentrates on 'what MIGHT be the truth' regarding crop circles, with Terence Meaden's theories on vortexes and electrical/magnetic fields being discussed. The reviewer questions why hoax circle details are publicized without charges for the damage caused.

THE RESEARCHER: This publication from the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association is described as having a motto of 'Interpretation is free, experience scared'. It covers topics like UFOs over Anglican Cathedrals, 'Fighting the Secrecy War', urban myths, and recent hauntings. The magazine highlights a 'black oval object' seen over the River Mersey in July 1996. This is the organization's first magazine issue, and it aims to cover paranormal topics with an accent on UFOs.

Key Persons and Organizations

Several individuals and organizations are mentioned, including Tony Dodd, Susan Blackmore, Graham, Terence Meaden, Doug, Dave, Busty Taylor, Mark Glover, Derek Brown, Michael Lindemann, Jim Marrs, Elaine Darlington, Ian Gould, Kevin McClure, Phillip J. Klass, Susan Blackmore, Stuart Campbell, Betty Andreasson, Barney Hills, Raymond Fowler, David Jacobs, John Spencer (BUFORA Chairman), Nick Redfern, Richard Conway, Matthew Williams, Omar Fowler, Steve Mera, Gloria Dixon, Anthony Eccles, Tom Trubridge, Paul Hailey, Ernie Sears, Michael Hessemann, Jean Ritchie, James Darymple, and Liu Zhongkai. Organizations mentioned include SUFOG, NASA, SETI, Quest Publications Ltd, Malta UFO Research, Merseyside Anomalies Research Association, BUFORA, Ministry of Defense, Contact International UFO Research, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chinese UFO Research Association.

UFO Sightings and Incidents

Mystery Cat: Reports of a large black cat-type creature sighted in Hampshire are detailed, with sightings occurring near the New Forest and the A35.

The Mystery of the Black Triangles: BUFORA Chairman John Spencer notes the evolution of UFOlogy, from the 'blond Nordics' to the 'sinister Greys' and now to black triangles and wedge-shaped craft. Examples include the 'Silent Vulcans' seen over Belgium in 1989-1990 and recent reports over the UK. The possibility of these being advanced aircraft like AURORA is considered.

• Triangular Craft Reports: Several reports of triangular craft are mentioned:
• A silent triangle flying slowly over Halden Hill, Exeter, in August 1996.
• A similar craft seen near Brighton hospital in August 1996, with a low humming sound.
• A red object seen in the Old Trafford area of Manchester in February 1996.
• Reports from Whitley Bay and Southport concerning objects seen over the North West of England.
• A report by Omar Fowler on the characteristics of triangles.

Stationary Light Fan at Eastfield, Wiltshire (25.8.97): Tom Trubridge and Paul Hailey observed a luminous event in a ditch near Eastfield. The light developed a fan-shaped upward projection and moved slowly. The event lasted about five minutes, and the next day a drainage ditch was found at the location, with no physical after-effects visible.

The Sighting Night (25th August): The observers noted a faint lighted area in Eastfield that developed into a fan shape. The light intensity diminished until invisible. The event was traced to a drainage ditch. The distance indicated the light event was larger than initially estimated.

The Next Day: On August 26th, the event area was visited, revealing a 'v' shaped drainage ditch. The ditch ran east-west and was bordered by harvested crop.

General Conclusions: The observers concluded that the luminous event was not due to human activity and suggested it might offer pointers to conditions required for 'earthlight' class luminous events.

Possible Hypotheses: The origin of nocturnal lights is considered unknown, with possibilities ranging from extraterrestrial activity to earth-based physical phenomena. The role of observer consciousness is also raised.

Possibilities: The lights may represent a new mode of energy production, and connections between human intent and light activity could shed light on the nature of consciousness.

UFO's In China: An article from The Wall Street Journal highlights China's serious approach to UFOlogy, viewing it as a matter of national importance. The Chinese UFO Research Association includes respected scientists aiming to harness UFO technology for energy and efficiency. Chinese scientists are attempting to build their own UFOs, with designs including ellipsoids with tilt wings and flying globes powered by patented systems. Magnetic field technology is also being explored for energy generation and time alteration.

Specific Case Studies and Personal Accounts

The Matthew Williams Experience: A report on a lecture by Matthew Williams concerning Rudloe Manor, government cover-up, and his exploits in tunnels. The event was attended by 35 people and included video footage from Mexico and Czechoslovakia.

• Newspaper Cuttings Extra! by Ernie Sears:
• The Sun: Excerpts from Jean Ritchie's book 'ABDUCTED', detailing the story of an alien abduction of a boy from Kent.
• The Daily Mail: An investigation questioning whether a boy was carried away by the UFO Lobby, and noting that little new has appeared in UFO literature since the 1940s and 50s.

FILES FROM THE FBI AVAILABLE IN PRINTED FORMAT: Information on how to obtain these files is provided.

SUFOG NEWSLETTER cont. from page 12: A personal account of witnessing a huge silent triangular craft hovering over Southampton in November 1997. The craft disappeared quickly. The account is contrasted with Kevin McClure's assertions about abduction myths.

References and Further Reading

• Deveraux (1989): Earth Lights revelation.
• JUNG, C. - Jung, on Elementary Psychology.
• GEOLOGICAL MAP: Scale 1:50,000.
• SPACELINK BOOKS: Offers a range of books on Abductions, UFOs, Crop Circles, etc.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The SUFOG NEWSLETTER consistently explores UFO sightings, crop circles, and abduction phenomena, often with a critical eye towards official explanations and sensationalism. There is a recurring theme of questioning government secrecy and promoting an 'openness of mind'. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to explore evidence and consider various hypotheses, while also acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding. The newsletter also features personal accounts and reviews of other publications in the field, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of UFOlogy and related subjects.

Title: SUFOG NEWSLETTER
Issue Date: January / February '98 (Issue 21)
Publisher: SUFOG
Country: Australia

This issue of the SUFOG Newsletter focuses on UFOlogy, featuring a detailed book review and an apology for a previous error. It also includes announcements for upcoming SUFOG events.

Book Review: ALIENS: Encounters with the Unexplained

Ernie Sears reviews "ALIENS: Encounters with the Unexplained," a 1997 publication by Marcus Day, published by Paragon. The book is described as beautifully bound and colorfully illustrated, spanning 124 pages. It covers a wide range of UFO-related topics, including:

• Close Encounters: Categorized up to the Fifth Kind.
• UFO Hot Spots of the World: Featuring photographic evidence.
• Historical Sightings: Ranging from circa 10,000BC to ancient Egypt, and including WW2 Foo Fighters.
• Specific Incidents: The unsolved "Siberian Fireball" of 1908, "Life On Mars," Area 51, TWA Flight 800, alleged Russian "ALIEN" photos, the "Mexican wave," Rendlesham Forest, and alleged astronaut evidence.
• Third Kind Encounters: Including an Aztec "model airplane," "Goatsuckers," and "Angel Hair."
• MIBs and Roswell: Mentioned in relation to the autopsy.
• Abductee Accounts: Featuring Barney and Betty Hill, Travis Walton, and the Ilkley Moor "alien" photo, posing the question "Have YOU Been Abducted?"
• Fifth Encounters: Tracing UFO phenomena from early history to the present.

Sears notes that while the book contains some genuine evidence, discerning what is genuine can be difficult. He also questions the motivations of investigators who deny evidence, suggesting a potential psychological bias.

SUFOG APOLOGY

The newsletter includes an apology from the editor to Moira McGhee of the INUFOR DIGEST and a respected Australian researcher. This apology is for an error in the previous newsletter's review of McGhee's report on the "Portland Encounter," which appeared in the November 1997 INUFOR DIGEST.

Corrected Review of INUFOR DIGEST

The corrected review covers two issues of the Australian-based INUFOR DIGEST (July and November 1997).

• July 1997 Issue: Features abduction experiences of Leesa Donohue, UFOs in France, scientific collaboration by Claire Williams, and a review of the book "Left At East Gate." It touches upon the subtle loss of "democracy" over decades.
• November 1997 Issue: Includes "The Physics of a Flying Saucer" by Ted Roach and the "Portland Encounter," which details the craft, occupants, and the experiences of an abductee named Linda and her children. The Independent Network of UFO Researchers Seminar is also mentioned as a successful event with 14 speakers. The INUFOR DIGEST office is located at PO Box 783, Kogarah, New South Wales, 2217, Australia.

Letter of Apology from Mr. Ernie Sears

Ernie Sears offers a public and personal apology to Moira McGhee. The error in his previous review involved confusing Moira McGhee with "Linda," an abductee whose case McGhee investigated. Sears attributes the mistake to reviewing a large number of magazines simultaneously. He reiterates his pleasure in offering the apology.

SUFOG Events and Future Content

• Next Group Meeting:
• Date: Sunday, April 26th, 1998
• Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
• Location: Church Road Center, Woolston
• Cost: £2 Admittance
• Note: This meeting was changed due to a clash with the Avebury trip.

• Next Public Speaker:
• Date: Sunday, June 21st, 1998
• Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Guest Speaker: To be advised, but hoped to be Mr. Ernie Sears, who has reportedly had over 14 UFO sightings and possible alien contact.
• Cost: £5.00 on the door.

• Avebury Adventure:
• Date: Weekend of May 16th/17th, 1998
• Cost: £5 per person (transport to be arranged).
• Activities: Sightseeing on Saturday/Sunday with a skywatch on Saturday evening.
• Accommodation: "Under the Stars."

• Future Group Meeting Dates:
• Sunday, April 26th, 1998
• Sunday, July 26th, 1998
• Sunday, September 13th, 1998
• Sunday, November 8th, 1998

• SUFOG One Day Conference:
• Planned Date: To be fixed in March 1999
• Location: City of Southampton

Next Newsletter Content:

The next newsletter will focus on the aspect of children and ufology, examining available books and magazines for young ufologists. The editorial emphasizes the importance of educating the next generation of investigators.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The SUFOG Newsletter appears to maintain a stance of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also emphasizing the importance of accurate reporting and respectful discourse, as evidenced by the apology issued. The publication encourages investigation and provides a platform for sharing information and organizing events within the UFO community. There is a clear focus on historical cases, contemporary sightings, and the personal experiences of abductees and contactees. The editorial also highlights the importance of educating younger generations in the field of ufology.