AI Magazine Summary
SUFOG Newsletter No 093-94
AI-Generated Summary
Title: SUFOG NEWSLETTER Issue: Numbers 93 and 94 Date: July / August 1998 Publisher: Southampton UFO Group
Magazine Overview
Title: SUFOG NEWSLETTER
Issue: Numbers 93 and 94
Date: July / August 1998
Publisher: Southampton UFO Group
This issue of the SUFOG Newsletter focuses on encouraging group participation, particularly for the upcoming Conference 1999, as indicated by the cover headline "YOUR GROUP NEEDS YOU !!". The newsletter includes updates on group activities, reviews of media coverage related to UFOs and conspiracies, and listings of upcoming events and contacts for other UFO research organizations.
Editorial
The editorial begins with an apology for the delay in publication due to a computer issue that resulted in the loss of the newsletter's format (Microsoft Publisher V.2) and a lack of backup. The editor appeals for anyone who has a copy of this software to lend it. The editor then shifts to the main topics, mentioning a three-day conference on 'CONSPIRACIES' held in Winchester from July 17th-19th, 1998, which included a session on 'Alien Abductions'. The editor questions the scope and potential outcomes of such a short conference on a vast subject.
The editor also highlights recent group activities, including a 'Summer Fate' event at a middle school in Southampton, press coverage of group members, and talks given by the editor, including one for young children. A point of frustration is raised regarding the lack of reciprocal reviews from other UFO groups that receive the SUFOG Newsletter. Out of 14 magazines received over two months, only one provided a review. The editor quotes this review, which noted the newsletter's "excellent media coverage" and "fine regular catalogue of UFO's on TV, radio etc.", but questions the reviewer's comment that this was "a plus". The editor urges other group editors to provide reviews to increase publicity for UFOlogy.
The editorial concludes with the editor stepping off his "soap box" and introducing the newsletter's content. A new 'letters item' is announced, inviting readers to write in with praise or other contributions.
Events and Activities
- Months Ahead Diary:
- July 1998: Interview with Meridian TV by Steve Gerrard (23rd), SUFOG Sky Watch at Cheesefoot Head (24th), Group Meeting at Woolston (26th).
- August 1998: Lecture by Steve Gerrard at Ringwood Library (24th), SUFOG Sky Watch (28th).
- September 1998: SUFOG Sky Watch (11th), Group Meeting at Woolston (13th), Lecture on the Isle of Wight (17th).
- October 1998: Lecture by Steve Gerrard for UFO Kent (3rd), Lecture for West End Ladies Group by Steve Gerrard (6th), Lecture for Family Circle Group by Mr. Ernie Sears (8th).
- November 1998: Sunday afternoon lecture by Malcolm Robinson (8th).
The diary indicates a full schedule, with more events to be confirmed.
Crop Circles in Hampshire
This section details crop circle formations reported in Hampshire during the 1998 season up to August 7th. Fifteen formations were noted. The first was found at Weyhill near Andover on April 18th. Subsequent formations included one at Andover on May 10th (a circle with a ring and three equidistant circles), one at Privett on June 16th (a ringed circle with smaller crescents), and a complex pictogram at Clanfield on the same day. Other counties like Wiltshire, Dorset, Staffordshire, and Kent also reported formations. In July, a circle appeared in wheat at Stockbridge (near Andover), and a large pictogram was found at Morstead near Winchester. On July 9th, a "Flower-type" formation was reported alongside the M27 motorway. The report describes the efforts of group members Graham and Brian to locate this formation.
What the Press Had to Say in August 1996
This extensive section lists numerous newspaper articles from August 1996, categorized by regional and national newspapers, as well as magazine articles. The entries provide the date, publication, and a brief headline or description of the UFO-related story. Examples include:
- Regional Articles: "Did you see this UFO?" (Salisbury Journal), "Something is out there" (Walthamstow Guardian), "Are they the next big thing?" (Bolton Metro News), "Family astounded by flashing lights of UFO" (Falkirk Herald), "UFO alert as hot-air balloon skims roofs" (Wolverhampton Express & Star), "Mystery of 'UFO' as plane hunt fails" (Manchester Evening News), "Couple's encounter with space ship" (Falkirk Herald), "Alien abductions 'all in the mind'" (Dudley Express & Star).
- National Newspapers: "X marks the spot where the aliens were sighted" (Daily Mail Weekend), "UFOs, ETs etc." (Sunday Telegraph), "Is this the proof that UFOs exist?" (Daily Mail), "Photos NASA hid for 20 years" (Daily Mirror), "The aliens among us" (Daily Mirror).
- Magazine Articles: "The EVP and Aliens" (Psychic News).
Television & Radio Reviews by Steve Gerrard (June 15th - August 15th, 1998)
- 2nd July: This Morning: A program featuring Graham Birdsall (Quest International) and ex-pilot Graham Shepherd, discussing UFOs. The editor requests recordings.
- 8th July: Animal X: A segment on cattle mutilations in America, noting the precision of removal, lack of blood, and sophisticated 'knife' use, with mentions of 'tractor beam' lifting. The item lasted approximately 8 minutes.
- 12th July: UFO: The Untold Story: A commercial video available on Discovery Channel, focusing on UFO sightings worldwide, running for 45 minutes.
- 24th July: Earthscan (SCI-FI Channel): The opening programs of a new series focused on the Loch Ness Monster and Conspiracies, including interviews with younger people about aliens and alien contact. The editor notes "Pre Millennium Tension".
- 28th July: Sightings (USA) (Cable TV): A new series covering mass sightings in Mexico and a UFO flap over Idaho.
- 8th August: The editor mentions his own brief appearance on a program, stating he "thoroughly enjoyed being seen infront of millions of people" but felt he was cut off. He rates his experience positively despite the perceived brevity.
Book Review - By Ernie Sears
Title: Disctech: A Theory About Alien Technology
Author: Robert Kingsley Morison
Publisher: United Writers Publications Ltd.
Ernie Sears reviews "Disctech", a book by Robert Kingsley Morison, which proposes a theory about alien technology. The book discusses concepts like "canceling gravity" through forcefields and crop circle energy, and the author's belief that if his ideas work, they will "place immense power in the hands of the people". Sears expresses skepticism about the implications of such power being in the hands of the general populace. The review notes that Morison, who became interested in the UFO scene in 1960 after a background in electronics, precognition, and antimaterialist philosophies, suggests years of scientific study are needed before experiments. Sears recommends the book, calling it "interesting if very deep", and rates it 7 out of 10, though he notes it might be heavy going for those not interested in theories of Einstein.
Ye Olde Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears Esq.
This section provides a collection of newspaper clippings and reviews from May and June 1998:
- The Sunday Telegraph (May 31st): A large article by TV critic John Diamond on the 'Everyman Prog.' titled "Contact", which aimed a cynical look at abductees and witnesses, concluding there was "nothing in it" except the BBC's reluctance to alienate its audience. Diamond also mentioned professors of neuroscience replicating abduction experiences, a claim questioned by Sears.
- The Daily Mail (June 4th): Discussed a 24,000 mph UFO spotted by radar over the North Sea. The 'Coffe Break' section suggested a flock of geese, but this explanation was deemed unsuitable for the Fylingdales UFO sighting.
- The Sunday Telegraph (June 7th): Featured the 'Everyman Prog.' "Contact" again, calling abductees a "wretched bunch" and attributing their experiences to "sexual fantasy, Thwarted adventurism, delusions". Sears labels this as the work of an "uninformed critic and closed mind ego struck bod".
- The Daily Mail (June 14th): Reported on a "mysterious and 'world's most secret society', the Bilderberger Group", and their meeting in Scotland, which was surrounded by armed police.
- The Mirror (June): An article by Judith Jaafar, described as "Britains answer to the X Files Dana Scully", who is a BUFORA investigator. She related incidents, including the Hopkinsville "alien" incident.
- Southern Daily Echo (June 27th): Featured an interview with Ernie Sears, though his surname was changed to "Spears". Sears notes this as his "15 minutes of fame".
- The Daily Telegraph (June 30th): An article on a panel of "scientists" who concluded that claimed sightings did not prove ETs or violations of natural laws.
Group Contact Corner & Subscription Details
This section provides contact information for numerous UFO research groups across the UK, including Cornwall UFO Research Group, West Wales Paranormal Group, London UFO Studies, and many others. It also lists contact details for Malcolm Robinson (SPI England) and the Welsh Federation of UFOlogists.
Subscription details for the Southampton UFO Group Newsletter are provided: £5 per year, published bi-monthly, consisting of at least 10 double-sided A4 pages. Details for BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) subscription are also listed: £7.00 for 6 issues or £13.00 for 12 issues, with contact information for Mr Michael Hudson.
We Saw the Light......
This short report details a skywatch event on Friday, July 25th, where the editor and four group members witnessed the sighting of "2" unidentified objects. There were five witnesses to the first sighting and three to the second. The skywatch lasted from 8 p.m. to 02:30 hrs and was considered very successful.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, crop circles, and media coverage of these phenomena. The editorial stance is one of active engagement with the subject, encouraging group participation, and promoting UFOlogy through various channels, including media reviews and public talks. There is a clear frustration with the lack of reciprocity from other groups in terms of reviews, highlighting a desire for increased publicity and recognition. The newsletter also serves as a platform for reporting on group activities, upcoming events, and sharing information from other research organizations. The editor appears to be a proponent of UFOlogy, while also maintaining a critical eye on media portrayals and the scientific community's response to UFO phenomena.
This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, dated July 1998, covers a range of topics related to UFO phenomena, media coverage, and internal debates within the UFOlogy community. The content includes news reports, magazine reviews, personal opinions, and updates on UFO-related events and organizations.
News and Media Reports
The newsletter begins by referencing a continuation from page 9, discussing Professor Peter Sturrock of Stanford University's suggestion that scientists should focus on 'physical evidence' rather than witness testimony. It notes a report from the International Committee for the Scientific Claims of the Paranormal that derided a report as a 'publicity stunt by UFO believers', with Philip Klass and The Skeptical Enquirer also criticizing the promotion of fringe topics.
The Daily Mail is cited for a June 30th article featuring a montage of a 'THREE THOUSAND FOOT DISC' that allegedly hovered over Paris in 1994. Dr. Sturrock is quoted admitting that some phenomena were 'Unidentified'. Another Daily Mail article from July poses a hypothetical question about killing an alien if threatened, concluding that it would be impossible due to superior ET technology.
The Southampton Daily Echo reported on the 'First Conspiracy Conference' at Winchester, featuring US professor Elaine Showalter. Showalter's book, 'Hysterical Epidemics and Modern Culture', is mentioned as offering explanations for various illnesses and events, including alien abductions, which she attributes to psychological factors and 'conspiracy malaise'. The article notes the irony of this claim given other reports accepting ME as a true illness.
A Daily Mail article from July 27th covers a conference in Hereford where Nick Redfern spoke about government secrecy and Men in Black. Michael Hesemann, a German investigator, presented video of a craft over Mexico City and 'best sightings from the US'.
Nick Redfern's News Release
A news release from Nick Redfern, supplied by Ernie Sears, discusses two developments concerning the Ministry of Defence's involvement in the UFO issue. The first is Nick Pope's forthcoming book, 'Operation Thunderchild', which Redfern suggests will explore UFO-RAF encounters in a fictional format, allowing him to say things not possible in non-fiction. Pope admits his views on the Ministry's involvement have 'evolved somewhat', finding more to question.
Redfern also refers to a 'Defence Source' who commented on the BBC TV drama 'Invasion Earth'. The source found it strange that the MOD, publicly dismissive of UFOs, would assist a sci-fi drama that begins with the RAF shooting down a UFO. The source questions the MOD's benefit from such assistance, noting that it usually helps with recruitment or public relations, and that questions about this project were raised at the highest level within the MOD.
Magazine Reviews by Ernie Sears
Ernie Sears reviews several magazines:
- ENIGMA: Praised for its exposure of the 'secret' Bilderberger Group, detailing its members, crop circles, and an interview with David Icke. It also features Arthur C. Clarke on UFOs. The magazine is priced at £8 for four issues.
- STRANGE PHENOMENA SCOTLAND: Described as the brainchild of Billy Devlin and Malcolm Robinson. It includes an article by Malcolm Robinson on 'young UFOlogists' and potential witness trauma, Dean Ladds on a web site, and Malc's book 'UFOs Over Scotland'. It costs £15 for 5 issues.
- UFO NEWS: Subtitled 'incorporating 'the grey area' and 'intelligence magazine'', this publication is linked to Eric Morris. It covers Area 51, UFOs, the paranormal, the British UFO Study Center, and the Lancashire UFO Society (LUFOS). It is described as an 'independent' publication aiming to cut through hype, and includes a report by Tim Matthews on 'the Millennium' and flying saucers, advanced German WW2 aircraft, and the 'SILENT and SUPERFAST' craft.
UFO Magazine Reviews (Continued)
- UFO MAGAZINE (USA): The cover boldly states 'the Real X Files'. It covers the 'X Files Movie', Area 51, and plans to broaden its scope to include sci-fi films and TV. It features an interview with Don Ecker about the FBI and secrecy, and a review of Ray Fowler's 'The Andreasson Legacy'. The magazine is published at 5455 Centinela Ave, Los Angeles.
- UFO MAGAZINE (UK): Graham Birdsall's publication is described as healthy, with an inner cover blurb of MI5 official comments on UFOs. An article by French researcher Gildas Bourdais discusses the Cranwell Affair, involving 4,000mph craft and MOD denials. It also mentions another UFO-oriented RAF base and world UFO headlines.
- INUFOR DIGEST: The June 1998 issue features sightings and encounters from Australian correspondents, including Moira McGhee's reports on Central Coast and Singleton sightings, and a 1966 encounter in Southern Victoria. It also details a Berwyn Mountain 'crash' and discusses British UFO Organisations. A review of David Jacobs' book 'The Threat' is included.
- ABDUCTION WATCH: This issue focuses on hypnosis in UFO abduction investigations, with Kevin McClure's periodical criticizing both humble and not-so-humble UFOlogists. It mentions Malcolm Robinson and discusses hypnotic regression.
Letters and Opinions
- Roswell Autopsy Video... A Fake !!!: A letter from Tristan (17 yrs old) debunks the Roswell autopsy video, citing discrepancies such as the alien's appearance (6 fingers, not matching 'Greys'), the use of rubber, incorrect bleeding, lack of blood on the 'surgeons', and the impossibility of peeling the eye membrane. The letter suggests the video is disinformation, possibly to make 'Greys' seem terrifying.
- Kevin McClure and BUFORA: The newsletter discusses Kevin McClure's contact with BUFORA to stop discussions about the A70 Scottish UFO abduction case due to its use of hypnosis. The author agrees that hypnosis can be dangerous but argues against suppressing public lectures on the topic, advocating for free speech.
- SPI Scotland and Malcolm Robinson: Malcolm Robinson addresses criticisms of the new SPI Scotland group, stating that Billy Devlin will run it 'his own way'. Robinson clarifies his own involvement is limited to setting up SPI England and that he will not be investigating cases in Scotland. He expresses confidence that SPI England and SPI Scotland will help the paranormal world gain recognition.
- UFO Seen Over West Coast of England: A report details sightings of bright lights on July 10th, initially baffling authorities but later explained by an airline pilot as a large meteorite. The lights formed a Z-shape and were seen from Cornwall to Scotland and Belfast.
Conference and Event Updates
- Conference 99... An Update: Planning is underway for a one-day conference on October 24th, 1999, in Southampton, featuring speakers like Malcolm Robinson and Graham Birdsall. Ticket prices are £12 (£10 concessions), with 100 tickets available. Food, refreshments, and merchandise will be available, along with a prize draw.
- Ernie Sears lecture 21st June 1998: Ernie Sears was invited to give a talk on his UFO sightings and encounters in Southampton. Despite publicity, only a few people attended, leading to the meeting's cancellation due to costs (£45 for speaker fee and hall hire). The next speaker is Malcolm Robinson.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The newsletter exhibits a critical yet engaged stance towards UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on media analysis, scrutinizing how UFO events are reported and interpreted. The issue highlights debates within the UFOlogy community, particularly concerning the use of hypnosis, the credibility of certain individuals and organizations, and the role of media in public perception. The reviews of various magazines suggest a broad interest in different facets of the paranormal and conspiracy theories. The editorial stance appears to favor open discussion and investigation, while also being skeptical of sensationalism and disinformation, as seen in the debunking of the Roswell autopsy video and the questioning of media narratives. The newsletter also promotes the idea of unity and collaboration within the UFOlogy community, while acknowledging internal disagreements and rivalries.
This issue of the SUFOG NEWSLETTER, dated Page 20, focuses on UFO sightings, internet resources for UFO research, and crop circle reports. It also includes updates on group activities and a parliamentary Q&A session.
UFO Sighting over Poole, Dorset
The newsletter reports on a UFO sighting on June 17, 1998, when a Mr. John Hayes from Poole reported that his daughter saw a ball of flame high above Poole. Hurn airport confirmed no radar track during the specified time. A sighting report form was sent to the witness for more information.
My 3 Minutes of Fame....
This section details a personal experience of being interviewed for Meridian television on July 23rd. The interview was about UFOs and the benefits of the internet for UFO research. The author describes visiting several UFO-related websites, rating them:
1. Quest International site: Not of interest, as material had already appeared in their magazine (2/10).
2. U.F.O.M.Ε.Κ: Fairly interesting, but last updated in October 1997 (4/10).
3. UFOINFO: Rated as the best UFO site, with wealth of interesting, up-to-date information, including its newsletter and recent news items. It's recommended for weekly visits (10/10).
4. BUFORA on line: A good site with a listing of contact groups, Jenny Randles' column, and articles from UFO Times magazine (7/10).
5. I.R.C.U.P (Paul Vigay): An excellent site for crop circles, with the latest listings, photographs, and drawings. It was updated on the day of the visit (15/10 if possible).
6. A.S.S.A.P: An excellent site with news, views, and information about the group (8/10).
3 Mins of Fame Cont.. from page 20
The author continues the account of the television interview, describing the hospitality and the experience of being interviewed. The interview ran over by 45 seconds. The total time spent at the studios was from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Group Meeting :Sunday 27th July...
This section reports on a poorly attended group meeting. Despite the low turnout, one or two decisions were made. Future plans include:
1. An investigator's course to be held at the author's home, with dates to be notified in October.
2. The next 'GROUP' meeting might be held in a hostelry on the town side of the Itchen Bridge.
3. A questionnaire will be sent to members to gauge interest in the group's future.
4. From January 1999, group meetings will be more structured, with dedicated time for group news, discussions on alien abductions, and video evenings.
5. Monthly sky watches will be held, weather permitting.
6. Sunday afternoon lectures are planned, including one by a WSG Speaker (to be confirmed) on February 21st and Lionel Beer (BUFORA) on June 20th.
Written Answers 15th July 1998 (House of Lords).
This section details a series of questions posed by Lord Hill-Norton to Her Majesty's Government regarding unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and the Ministry of Defence's (MOD) handling of reports.
Unidentified Flying Objects.
Lord Hill-Norton asked about the arrangements for disseminating UFO reports within the MOD, their last review, and ensuring accurate instructions for recording and passing on such reports. He also inquired about the follow-up action taken by the MOD and whether radar correlation checks are made.
Lord Gilbert responded that the MOD's interest is limited to identifying potential hostile or unauthorized foreign military activity. Reporting procedures were last reviewed in April 1997. Reports are examined with MOD experts, potentially including radar correlation.
Lord Hill-Norton then asked about the number of UFO reports notified to the MOD in 1996, 1997, and the first six months of 1998, and how many remained unexplained. Lord Gilbert provided the figures: 609 in 1996, 425 in 1997, and 88 (January-June) in 1998. He reiterated that the MOD does not seek explanations unless there is evidence of compromised airspace.
Lord Hill-Norton further inquired if the MOD would consult staff at the Royal Greenwich Observatory, the Ballistic Missile Early Warning Center at RAF Fylindales, and the Deep Space Tracing Facility at RAF Feltwell when evaluating UFO reports. Lord Gilbert stated that such consultations may occur depending on the circumstances.
Finally, Lord Hill-Norton questioned why the MOD uses an answering machine for UFO reports and whether callers receive a formal reply. Lord Gilbert explained that the answering machine allows the public to leave details and that the message outlines the MOD's limited interest, with assurances that callers will be contacted if follow-up action is deemed appropriate.
Lord Hill-Norton also asked about the number of military personnel who witnessed the craft that overflew RAF Cosford and RAF Shawbury on March 31, 1993, and whether such events, if unidentified, should be classified as of no defence significance. Lord Gilbert confirmed a single report from two military personnel regarding this incident, stating that while facts were examined, no firm conclusions were drawn, and it was not judged to be of defence significance.
Cont. from page 14.... abduction story
This section appears to be a continuation from a previous page, discussing an abduction story and the potential repercussions for revealing the truth. It mentions NUFON's review and encourages subscriptions.
LONDON UFO STUDIES...
This refers to the 'Skylink' magazine, noting it has gone 'green' and mentioning its editor, Roy Lake, and new editor Jane West. It touches on the question of where UFOs have gone and features remote viewing.
THE REPORTING OF A CROP CIRCLE
This article details the investigation of a crop circle discovered near Fareham, M27 Junction 11, on July 9th. The author, along with a friend, visited the site on July 11th after hearing about it from a local radio report. They found a large crop circle in the shape of a chrysanthemum in a wheat field.
PUCKS REVIEW
EDITORIAL
This editorial discusses the busy crop circle season in the UK, with around 90 formations appearing in various counties. It notes the absence of formations in Sussex. The author describes big circular designs with semi-circles, including one near Fareham that caught attention. A new film about crop circle researchers is mentioned, as is a BBC commission for a few crop circles in Wiltshire for a forthcoming program. The editorial also notes crop circle reports from around the world, including Finland, Germany, Croatia, USA, and Israel.
GROUP NEWS UPDATE....
This section provides statistics for the SUFOG group as of August 1998:
- Total Membership: 52
- Total Group Exchanges in UK: 30
- Total Group Exchanges Worldwide: 10
- Total Money in Group Account: £125
It also lists group holdings (slide projector & screen, VHS video recorder) and available lecture videos for purchase.
SUFOG CLEARANCE SALE.
This page lists back issues of SUFOG Newsletters, videos, audio tapes, books, magazines, and press cuttings available for purchase. Prices and postage costs are detailed.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The SUFOG Newsletter consistently covers UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena. It provides a platform for personal accounts, reviews of UFO resources (websites, magazines, books), and updates on group activities. The inclusion of parliamentary Q&A sessions indicates an interest in official responses and government transparency regarding UFOs. The publication also features crop circle reports and discussions, suggesting a broad scope within the ufology field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging members to share information and participate in group activities.
Title: THE CEREOLOGIST
Issue: No. 22
Date: Summer 1998
Publisher: The Cereologist
Country: UK
Language: English
This issue of The Cereologist delves into the complex world of crop circles, offering a blend of personal accounts, film reviews, and scientific interpretations. It features discussions on specific formations, the potential for hoaxes, and the broader implications of these phenomena.
Article: Film Review "CROPPLES"
The review discusses Grant Wakefield's second crop circle film, "Croppies," following his earlier work "Phenomena." The reviewer notes that "Croppies" goes beyond typical crop circle films by exploring the 'politics' of the phenomena and the beliefs of those involved. Grant Wakefield is credited as writer, director, camera-man, sound recordist, and narrator, praised for his ability to make interviewees open up. The film features a range of individuals, including Colin Andrews, Ed Sherwood, Peter Sørenson, Doug Bower, John Lundberg, and Julian Richardson. The review highlights lighthearted segments, such as Doug Bower being hit by falling ice, and Steven Greer's experiences with astral travel. It also mentions the controversial views of Canadian researcher Chad Deetkin, who labels hoaxers as "scum of the Earth" and "psychopaths." The review commends the inclusion of hoaxers' perspectives for balance and considers the film one of the best about crop circles, highly recommending it. Information is provided on how to obtain a copy of the film.
Article: Crop Circle Interpretations and Research
This section explores various interpretations and research related to crop circles:
Alton Barnes Pictogram (1990) John Pascale offers an interpretation of the Alton Barnes pictogram, suggesting a biblical perspective and divine involvement, though 'God' was unavailable for comment.
Millenium Research in the U.S.A. (Laguna Canyon, 1996) Ed and Kris Sherwood report on events at Laguna Canyon, where three formations appeared near sacred sites of the Tongua Indians, possibly linked to highway construction. "Strange lights" and "ghosts" were reported, and a Chumash elder suggested that "something within us is bringing destruction from out there in space," interpreting it as a warning.
Sound and Crop Circles (Cymatics) An article by Freddy Silva explores the idea that sound frequency might be behind crop circle creation. It references the work of Swiss scientist Hans Jenny and Ernst Chladni, who demonstrated how sound vibrations can create patterns in materials like sand. The concept of "Cymatics" is introduced, suggesting that simple vibrations create simple circles, while higher frequencies can form complex patterns, potentially linking to crop formations.
Unfolding the Crop Circles Articles by John Martineau and Wolfgang Schindler are mentioned, focusing on how geometric shapes like pentagrams and pentagons fit over crop formations, using the tetrahedron as an example. Richard Hoagland's application of this technique to the Barbury Castle formation of 1991 is also noted.
The Barbury Castle Formation (1991) Richard Hoagland used a technique of super-imposing ancient shapes over crop formations, achieving convincing results on the Barbury Castle formation.
The issue raises questions about the profound and cosmic intelligence behind genuine formations, suggesting subtlety and patience are involved.
Jim Diletosso Controversy A letter from a reader investigates Jim Diletosso, an expert who declared the Oliver's Castle video "possibly genuine." The reader questions Diletosso's credentials, alleging he does not have a Ph.D., did not work on the special effects for the Titanic film, and was not involved in analyzing Billy Meir's UFO photos. Diletosso is also accused of financial fraud.
New Zealand Pictogram A pictogram created by John Lundberg, Rod Dickinson, and Will Russel for NBC television in New Zealand is discussed. While claimed to be made in 4 hours, some sources suggest it took longer. The reviewer reserves judgment until more facts are available but acknowledges the creators' ability to make complex formations.
Fareham and Other Formations
The text details several crop circle formations:
Fareham Formation (July 9, 1998) Described as having a bit of damage, this formation was initially thought to be man-made due to its design similarity to formations at Privett and Clanfield. A cryptic message written in chalk in a nearby subway read: "FEEL PLACID THE HOMAN RACE IN YOUR FACE COMPLEMENTARY SPACE FEEL THE VIBES RIDE THE GOOD TIME ARTS A GESTURE SPORTING JESTKRE" with a jester's hat above it. Leonie Starr found the formation "interesting" after dowsing. A decomposed rat was later found in the formation.
Clanfield Formation (June 19, 1998) This formation in Hampshire featured wheat laid anti-clockwise. It included a central circle (12'), a standing ring (48'x 18'), a flattened ring (64'x 8'), and a scalloped flattened ring (112'), with an overall diameter of approximately 152'.
Portsdown Hill Formation (July 12, 1998) Reported to have grapeshot, this formation was not circular on the outside but had a standing ring in the center.
Phallic Symbol Formation (July 31, 1998) Located about a mile east of the main Fareham formation.
Old Winchester Hill Formation (August 4, 1998) A simple, effective, and pleasing formation discovered near Old Winchester Hill, Hants.
Editorial and Opinion: "LET'S TWIST AGAIN..."
This editorial section critiques the July issue of Sussex Circular, which reviewed Grant Wakefield's film "Croppies." The author finds the Sussex Circular editor's review to be biased and negative, particularly regarding the editor's statement that it "doesn't matter anymore whether some of them are man made, some of them made from human conciousness and some made by E.T.s." The editorial questions the editor's objectivity, noting that Jason Porthouse, a member of the Sussex Circular 'team,' was the editor of "Croppies." The author suggests this might be the "seeds of Cerealogical fascism." The editorial ponders the possibility that those making crop circles might be observed or manipulated by genuine phenomena, drawing parallels to puppets. It acknowledges that while claims of spectacular formations being man-made are hard to substantiate, it's likely that hoaxers have been responsible for some popular ones. The interaction between researchers and phenomena is highlighted, suggesting a "seal of approval from beyond."
The editorial concludes by emphasizing the importance of listening to intuition and accepting that the phenomena has changed the rules of understanding. It suggests that if the majority of crop circles were proven to be man-made, sales of related books and merchandise might decline, potentially explaining why some researchers are reluctant to consider human involvement.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently explores the multifaceted nature of crop circles, presenting evidence and opinions from various perspectives. There's a recurring theme of questioning the origins of these formations, whether they are man-made, natural phenomena, or the result of extraterrestrial or other intelligent influences. The editorial stance, particularly in the "LET'S TWIST AGAIN..." section, leans towards an open-minded approach, encouraging readers to consider all possibilities and use their intuition, while also acknowledging the role of hoaxers. The publication seems to advocate for a critical yet open examination of the evidence, promoting awareness and thought-provoking discussion within the field of cereology.