SUFOG Newsletter No 099-100

Magazine Overview

SUFOG, Issue Numbers 99 and 100, dated January/February 1999, is a publication focused on UFO phenomena, crop circles, and related mysteries. It is based in Southampton, United Kingdom, and is published by SUFOG. The cover headline "WHAT A LOAD OF CR*P..." immediately signals a critical and skeptical tone towards certain aspects of the UFO community.

Article: What a Load of Cr*p...

This section critiques a BBC TV program, 'Countryfile,' aired on January 4th, 1999, which featured an interview with Doug Bower, an artist who claimed to have created crop circles. The author expresses disbelief that after so many years, Bower confessed to his hoax. The program is described as a "load of cr*p" because it showed Bower and others creating a crop circle at night, with the alleged 'hoaxers' being unaware it was a hoax. The author criticizes the 'Circle Hunters' for chasing after these hoaxers and highlights that the presenter himself was one of the hoaxers. While acknowledging that hoaxes account for many crop circles, the author remains unconvinced about circles predating 1985, suggesting a genuine phenomenon might still exist.

European FT Initiative

An initiative is underway to track triangular-shaped UFOs across Europe between 1993 and 1997. Project FT's database contains approximately 7,000 sighting reports, and additional reports are required to expand this database.

Contact Information and Editorial Notes

The newsletter provides contact details for SUFOG, including an email address and postal address in Southampton. It also includes a section titled "MY EXCUSE..." where the editor apologizes for the newsletter's lateness due to recent hospital stays and surgery on his left knee.

What the Press Had to Say in Nov / Dec 1996

This extensive section compiles numerous newspaper articles from November and December 1996, categorized by region (Regional Articles, Local Articles) and topic (Crop Circle Articles, National Articles, Magazine Articles). These articles cover a wide range of UFO sightings, investigations, and related news, often with sensational headlines. Examples include reports of 'lights in the sky,' 'alien abductions,' 'UFOs being probed,' and 'mysteries over UFOs.' The sheer volume of these clippings suggests a significant media interest in UFOs during that period.

SUFOG Contact Corner

This section lists various UFO research groups and paranormal organizations across the UK, providing their contact phone numbers. It also details the subscription information for the SUFOG Newsletter, costing £5 per year and published bi-monthly. A separate subscription for the BUFORA NEWSFILE is also mentioned.

A Thought from a Member

This short piece humorously references the Americans' inspections in Iraq and Saddam Hussein's reaction, drawing a parallel to the idea of looking for 'rockets' and suggesting a hypothetical scenario where Saddam might ask to look around Area 51.

Audio Tapes

A list of audio tapes for sale is provided, featuring lectures on UFOlogy, crop circles, and underground bases by speakers like Roy Lake, Paul Vigay, Malcolm Robinson, and Matthew Williams.

Article: Oh Hell! Roswell!

This lengthy article critically examines the UFO phenomenon, contrasting it with scientific methodology. The author argues that UFOlogy lacks the empirical rigor of science, relying heavily on fleeting images and witness testimony, which have proven inadequate over fifty years of research. The article expresses frustration with the persistent focus on the Roswell incident and the E.T. hypothesis, suggesting it has become a cult perpetuated for commercial gain. The author criticizes the sensationalism in media and the tendency for some to imitate phenomena for publicity. The article also touches upon the concept of suppressed technology, particularly in relation to triangular UFO sightings, and questions why the establishment doesn't clarify such sightings as military exercises. It concludes by suggesting that the Roswell story has become tiresome and that researchers should focus on more productive avenues, emphasizing the need to protect the credibility of UFOlogy.

SUFOG & Project GUFONE

This section announces SUFOG's participation in Project GUFONE, an initiative to gather and exchange video footage of UFO-related programs globally. SUFOG will contribute its collection of 345 video tapes and hopes to receive new material from international participants. The project aims to create a comprehensive archive of UFO news videos.

SUFOG makes a link...

This piece details a new collaboration between SUFOG and a group called TRUTH, which originated from a college course in Southampton. Steve Rider will act as a liaison to pass information and sightings between the two groups, fostering cooperation and information exchange.

Ye Olde Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears Esq.

This recurring section provides a review of recent newspaper articles related to UFOs and crop circles. It covers reports from the Southampton Evening Echo, The Sunday People, The Sunday Telegraph, and The Daily Mail, often with a critical or skeptical commentary on the content and the media's portrayal of these topics. The reviews highlight claims of alien visits, crop circle hoaxes, and alleged alien encounters, often questioning the sources and motivations behind them.

Article: Aliens Can't Find the Time to Invade

This article discusses the perspective of astrophysicist James Annis, who suggests that the vastness of the universe and the speed of light limit the possibility of alien invasions. The article also speculates that powerful gamma ray bursts might have sterilized galaxies, potentially eliminating extraterrestrial life.

Dorchester Spring Conference

An announcement for the 4th Annual one-day Dorchester Spring Conference on Sunday, April 11th, 1999, is included, listing speakers and ticket prices.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG include the critical examination of media portrayals of UFO phenomena, particularly crop circles, and a skepticism towards sensationalized accounts and hoaxes. The publication emphasizes the importance of rigorous research and maintaining the credibility of UFOlogy, while also highlighting ongoing investigations and collaborative projects within the UFO community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, aiming to separate genuine mysteries from manufactured narratives and commercial exploitation. There is a clear distinction made between legitimate research and what the publication deems as

This issue of SUFOG, spanning pages 11-20, appears to be a compilation from early 1999, focusing on UFO phenomena, media coverage, and group activities. The content includes news clippings, magazine reviews, television and radio program reviews, and detailed articles on specific topics like crop circles and alternative interpretations of biblical texts.

Media Coverage of UFOs

The issue highlights how UFOs are being reported in mainstream media. The Saturday Telegraph's YOUNG TELEGRAPH magazine featured an article on Area 51, discussing alien technology, Bob Lazar, and political efforts to uncover the truth. The Daily Telegraph also featured an article exploring the possibility of aliens existing billions of light years away. The Southern Daily Echo reported on 'X-philes' and a workshop related to filmmaking about UFO exploits.

Magazine Reviews

Ernie Sears provides reviews of several publications:

• UFO Magazine: Praised for its quality and content, including articles on Armageddon, animal mutilations, and UFOs on Camera. It also mentions contributions from Tony Dodd and David Cayton.
• The Caller (Jersey UFO Research Team): Described as having 'good' coverage of alien-government dealings.
• Museum Talk by Kevin Giannoni: Noted as a good piece.
• Phoenix Of The Gods by Alan Alford: Reviewed, with a mention of its connection to Atlantis.
• Stanford University Internet Press Release: An article on scientists versus UFOs, initiated by Laurence S. Rockefeller.
• Kevin Giannoni's article on abductee symptoms: Inspired by a Sun newspaper article, it offers shrewd judgements and credits Tony Dodd.
• Faster Than Light: Identified as the magazine of the Hull UFO Society, with significant Scottish content from Malcolm Robinson and SUPR. It covers topics like ghostly occurrences and encounters in Bonnybridge.
• The Soviet UFO Files by Paul Stonehill: A large hardback detailing Russian paranormal encounters, declassified files from the 19th century, and ancient monuments. It links to the USA Mantell crash and mentions KGB files.
• The X Files (illustrated soft cover): A book about the making of the film, found to be more interesting than anticipated, with details on production, budget, and deadlines.
• Alien Impact by Michael Craft: A softback book offering a comprehensive look at human-alien contact, covering abductions, hidden agendas, and alien genesis. It includes coverage of the crop circle enigma and is considered a bargain.

Crop Circle Controversy

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to a critical examination of Matthew Williams, a researcher previously known for tracking crop circle hoaxers. The article "A 'CROP' OF LIES OR DECEIT.." reveals that Williams himself has admitted to creating crop circles in the Summer of 1998. The author expresses disbelief and disappointment, viewing this as a betrayal of his previous work and a potential hoax. Williams' stated reasons for creating the circles are presented as a 'scientific experiment' to establish a 'control sample' and gauge reactions, leading to a sense of communication with a 'higher intelligence'. The author strongly criticizes this explanation, comparing it to the Doug and Dave hoax and calling for Williams to be prosecuted for criminal damage and trespass.

Television and Radio Reviews

This section reviews various programs aired between December 1998 and February 1999:

• Country File (BBC 1): Briefly mentioned as having been covered in the editorial.
• UFO Chronicles (ITV): Described as dated and offering no new information.
• The Great UFO Conspiracy (CH5): A Roswell-based program featuring well-known researchers, but considered stale for those familiar with the subject.
• The Big End (ITV): A brief item concerning the Autherius Society, dismissed as a 'nice little filler'.
• UFO caught on film in Kent (Live TV - Cable TV): Featured footage from Jerry Anderson of UFOMEK, described as intriguing but not clear enough to define the object.
• Ross Reynolds abductee (Live TV - Cable TV): A program where an abductee recounts her experience, with the author reserving judgement on its veracity.
• UFO's Above and Beyond (Sky One - Cable TV): An excellent program showcasing dubious footage, including a UFO over Stuttgart. The reviewer notes that footage they possess might be clearer.
• The Big End: Animal Mutilations (23.1.99): A program about mutilated animals that offered no new information or explanations.
• Riddle Of The Skies (Ch 4): The first part of a three-part program described as excellent, despite some UFO clips being terrestrial in origin. It featured interviews with researchers and astronauts.

Talks and Events

The SUFOG Diary lists upcoming events for 1999, including Sky Watches, Group Meetings, and a lecture by Ernie Sears. A 1-Day Conference is scheduled for October 24th, 1999, featuring Graham Birdsall, Malcolm Robinson, and Russel Callaghan.

Timothy Good is mentioned as speaking in Southampton and signing his latest book.

Readers Letter Column

A letter from Ernie Sears to The Mail on Sunday addresses an article about a hoaxed 'alien autopsy', drawing parallels to the crop circle controversy and criticizing the media's handling of UFO matters. The letter emphasizes that for those who have experienced these phenomena, they are very real, and criticizes the lack of official acknowledgement, attributing it to fear.

SUFOG Group Meeting Updates

Details are provided for SUFOG group meetings, including a change of venue to Netley due to financial losses at the previous location. The group is facing financial challenges, with low attendance at recent meetings. Plans for future meetings, including invited speakers like Busty Taylor, Ernie Sears, and Bob Price, are outlined. An AGM is scheduled for September 5th, 1999, where decisions about the future of group meetings will be made.

Abducted by Angels? An Alternative Viewpoint

Brian Allan (SPI - Scotland) presents an article suggesting that biblical references to signs, portents, and angelic beings could be re-interpreted as alien encounters. The article draws parallels between the 'Nordic' and 'Grey' alien types and the representations of angels and demons, proposing that Earth might be a battleground for extraterrestrial races, similar to the biblical narrative of good versus evil. The author emphasizes that this is an alternative viewpoint based on re-interpreting historical accounts.

Other Items

• A correction is noted for the SPI Internet Web Site address.
• A list of SUFOG Lecture Video's for sale is provided, featuring topics like UFOLOGY, Crop Circles, Underground Bases, and Scottish UFO Cases, with prices ranging from £8.00 to £10.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing UFO phenomenon, the media's portrayal of it, and the challenges faced by UFO research groups. There's a strong emphasis on critical analysis, particularly concerning crop circles and the credibility of researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a desire for genuine truth, while also acknowledging the reality of the phenomenon for those who have experienced it. The group, SUFOG, is facing internal challenges related to finances and attendance, prompting a review of its future.

This issue of SUFOG features content from pages 21, 22, and 23, primarily focusing on a book review and a personal account of paranormal experiences.

Book Review: The Day After Roswell

The review covers the book "The Day After Roswell" by Colonel Philip J. Corso (Ret), with William J. Birnes, published by Pocket Books. The reviewer, Malcolm Robinson of SPI ENGLAND, notes that Colonel Corso was a member of President Eisenhower's National Security Council and former head of the Foreign Technology Desk at the U.S. Army's research and development department. Corso claims to have seen and worked on debris from the 1947 Roswell crash and describes strange 'beings' found at the site. He details a 'jump suit' that reminded him of a spider's web, which medical analysts suggested was capable of protecting the wearer from cosmic rays. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and tantalizing, suggesting that if the information is true, the Roswell case is closed and a reality. The author, Colonel Corso, passed away shortly after the book's release, which is noted as a loss to UFOlogy.

Bringing Things Up To Date!! By Group Member Ernie Sears

Ernie Sears recounts his personal journey into UFOlogy and the paranormal. He began his interest in 1947, initially pursuing it while recovering from a fractured skull. He describes joining Captain Plunket's 'Flying Saucer Bureau' and acting as a reporter. Sears recounts an incident in 1960 where he reported a 'glowing cigar' object near Thorney Island air base, which was dismissed by officials. This denial spurred his search for the truth. He details further sightings, including a huge triangular object over Southampton in 1977 and a similar craft in 1978. He also mentions a personal experience of an 'out of body' nature during one of these incidents.

Sears explains that this incident changed his life, leading him to discover gifts of healing and mediumship, and an interest in spiritualism. He notes that he appeared on TV and radio and became a 'New Ager' concerned with the welfare of others. He mentions that his book, detailing his experiences, is due for publication. He describes poltergeist incidents and electrical interference in his home, which eventually led to a divorce after ten years. He states that he has had 14 sightings in total.

He further discusses his experiences with 'ghosts', precognition, clairvoyance, meditation, and a 'spirit guide'. He mentions that cancer struck him and his wife, and he had remarried. Reading about 'abductees' brought back dim memories from his schooldays in the 1930s, including a mystery scar on his wrist. He notes that his experiences align with those of many abductees, such as those described by Whitley Strieber.

Sears has had more TV appearances and a mention in Nick Redfern's book 'A Covert Agenda'. He states he has 'come out' about his personal encounters, which have caused him little trauma, possibly due to their childhood origins. He feels his spiritual side and meditation have helped him face the unseen world of the paranormal. He believes the planet is due for a 'big shake-up' and that recent public news stories involving the spiritual and paranormal vindicate his experiences.

Upcoming Event

Mr. Ernie Sears is scheduled to give a talk on Sunday, May 23rd, 1999, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Church Road Community Centre, Church Road, Woolston. Tickets are £3.00 for SUFOG members and £3.50 for non-members, available from the editorial address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, particularly the Roswell Incident, and personal paranormal experiences. The editorial stance, as represented by the book review and Ernie Sears' account, appears to be open to the reality of UFO phenomena and the paranormal, encouraging readers to consider these possibilities and explore them further. The review of "The Day After Roswell" suggests a strong belief in the truth of Corso's claims, while Sears' narrative details a personal transformation driven by these experiences.