SUFOG Newsletter No 131-132

Magazine Overview

This issue of SUFOG (Southampton UFO Group) magazine, numbers 131 and 132, dated September/October 2001, marks the group's 10th anniversary. The cover prominently features this milestone with the years 1991-2001. The magazine's editorial content reflects on the decade of work by the Southampton UFO Group and other similar organizations in keeping the subject of UFOlogy alive.

Editorial: Ten Years of SUFOG

The editorial section, penned by Steve Gerrard, reflects on the ten years of effort put into the Southampton UFO Group. Gerrard expresses the hope that their work contributes to discovering the 'real truth' about UFOs. He acknowledges the challenges and the temptation to quit but emphasizes the importance of groups like SUFOG in preventing UFOlogy from fading into obscurity. The editorial expresses gratitude to members for their support, which is crucial for the survival of such groups. A comprehensive list of other UFO groups that have supported SUFOG over the years is provided, including CENAP, Enigma, SPI, Cornwall UFO Group, London UFO Studies Group, OVNI, Northern UFO News, APRA, Contact International UFO Research, Staffordshire UFO Group, UPRI, Victorian UFO Research, DEGUFO, and INUFOR. Gerrard also extends personal thanks to individuals like Ken Potts, Louis Farrish, Matthew Williams, Malcolm Robinson & Judith Jaafar, and Roy Lake. He further acknowledges Graham Birdsall, Russel Callaghan, Lionel Beer, Chris Martin, Elaine Waite, Nick Redfern, Mike Farrell, Busty Taylor, and Larry Dean. Special thanks are given to the core SUFOG members: Tom Trubridge, Sabina Roberts, Davinia Reynolds, Robert Fisher, Karl Smith, David Williams, Kevin Nicklen, Jamie Sleeman, and Andy Phillips. Bill and Jean Smith are thanked for their unwavering support. Ernie Sears is recognized for his seven years of friendship and work as Public Relations Officer. Steve Rider, the SUFOG Secretary, is lauded for his crucial help, friendship, and dedication. Finally, Gerrard thanks his wife, Anne, for her long-suffering support over 16 years, and concludes by thanking himself for his own hard work and dedication.

SUFOG's Activities Over the Past 10 Years

Pages 3, 4, and 5 detail a chronological list of SUFOG's activities from 1990 to October 2001. This extensive list includes numerous lectures, radio appearances (Radio Solent, Ocean Sound Radio), TV appearances (People Power, Why Files TV, Espreso, Meridian TV, Meridian News TV, Hooked on Hobbies, Isle of Wife Women's group talk, The Big Breakfast, Three Minutes, Radio Wave 105), conferences (Sheffield, Andover, Southend, Contact International, Bournemouth, SPI, Quest International), and UFO footage screenings (Cheesefoot Head, Portsdown Hill, Netley Abbey). Key individuals like Steve Gerrard, Ernie Sears, and Steve Rider are frequently mentioned as participants or speakers. The list also highlights collaborations with other groups and participation in various public events.

Looking Ahead to 2002

Page 4 outlines SUFOG's plans for 2002, including talks and lectures for interested groups. They charge a nominal fee (£15-£25) to cover travel and contribute to SUFOG funds. Upcoming events include a visit to a local planetarium in November 2001 and plans for a July/August weekend at Avebury. The magazine also lists scheduled talks for the Staffordshire UFO Group in 2002, such as the Fareham Holistic Experience Group talk and a WI talk in Portsmouth.

BUFORA Lecture 1st October 2001

This section recounts an experience by Steve Rider and the author (likely Steve Gerrard) giving a lecture at a BUFORA meeting in London. The journey involved a coach trip, a minor incident with a police car, and a mix-up with luggage where Steve Rider accidentally took an elderly lady's suitcase. The narrative humorously details the efforts to locate the owner and retrieve the correct suitcase, highlighting the theme of 'things coming in threes'. The lecture itself is not detailed, but the experience of travelling and the subsequent events are recounted with a lighthearted tone.

Quest International Conference 21st - 23rd September 2001

This report covers the attendance of Steve Rider and the author at the Quest International Conference in Leeds. The conference featured presentations by various speakers, including John Mack, Nick Pope, and Georgina Bruni. The author found John Mack's presentation 'a bit slow' and 'bland'. Nick Pope's presentation with an abductee was found 'very interesting'. Georgina Bruni's update on the Rendlesham Forest evidence was notable, particularly when Larry Warren unexpectedly appeared, causing Bruni to stumble. The report also mentions the author and Steve Rider's intention to give a joint presentation at the 2002 conference, with Graham Birdsall's positive response. The author humorously requests two free tickets to the evening gala.

Magazine Reviews

UFO Magazine

Ernie Sears reviews the October issue of UFO Magazine. He notes that UFO items have been placed on the back burner due to world events. The review highlights articles on cattle mutilations in Montana, the enigmatic 'chemtrails' and their side-effects, and the death of astronomer Fred Hoyle. It also mentions an article by David Cayton about a large hovering object seen over a field with 57 mutilated animals. The review touches upon Nick Redfern's move to the USA, Nick Pope's discussion of the Rendlesham Files, electro gravity, cold fusion, and parallel universes. Timothy Good's new book, 'Unearthly Disclosure,' is also mentioned. The review concludes by noting the magazine includes numerous contemporary sightings and is available from Quest Publications.

OVNI Magazine

Omar Fowler provides a review of the Sept/Oct issue of OVNI magazine. A quote from Prof. John E. Mack, 'You Have More to Fear from Your Fellow-Man than The Aliens,' is highlighted. The review mentions a USA-sourced message about visualization and peace, contrasting it with Stanton Friedman's view of mankind being 'intent on tribal warfare.' The OVNI issue includes details of long-duration sightings in Carteret, New Jersey, Rockford, Illinois, and Dundee, Wisconsin. It also references an Australian FT report about a red disc and a 'massive' FT sighting. An article discusses gyroscopic energy and an early RAF radar report of a 'bogey' moving at 2,000 mph. A press release states that over 20,000 people have had abduction experiences. The review also notes sightings of 'silver' discs in Sinfin, Derby.

Staffordshire UFO Group

This section briefly mentions the Staffordshire UFO Group's newsletter, issue 69, describing it as a neatly printed pocket version.

Ye Olde Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears Esq.

Ernie Sears presents a collection of newspaper clippings.

• Sunday Telegraph (October 7th): An article on cattle mutilations in Montana, with details of the mysterious killings and the lack of predator activity. The review notes a cartoon depicting 'aliens rustling our cows again.'
• Daily Mail (October 1st): A piece on Nobel Prize winner Prof. Brian Josephson, who studies paranormal matters and claims 'limited psychic ability.' Sears has written to the professor.
• UFO Newsclipping Service: This section mentions five thick issues from August 2001. It highlights a plea for information regarding relatives of Joyce Bowles, who claimed alien and abduction events in the Winchester area. It also notes contributions from Timothy Good and Nick Redfern.
• The Independent (May 10th, 2001): An article on the Washington Disclosure Project, which featured a presentation by an ex-naval commander who witnessed an unexplained lens-shaped object in 1951.
• Alton Herald (June 15th, 2001): A report of a bright orange light seen hovering and fading away near Selborne, Hampshire.
• Western Gazette (January 2001): An article titled 'Close Encounter puts town on the Map,' describing a 'large rectangular shape with two flashing lights' spotted over Yeovil.

To All Concerned: The Disclosure Project Injunction

This section, written by Steve Gerrard, addresses the 'injunction' placed on Dr. Greer's 'Disclosure' video. Gerrard believes the injunction originates from the company that broadcast the video online, aiming to increase profits by controlling sales. He argues that this is an act of 'commercialism' rather than government 'conspiracy.' Russel Callaghan of UFO Magazine shares a similar view, expressing disappointment that such a significant event was not shared freely. Gerrard questions the impact of the Disclosure Project, noting the lack of public awareness and suggesting that without government engagement, UFOlogy may struggle to be taken seriously.

SUFOG Diary - 2001

A list of SUFOG group meetings and events for the remainder of 2001 is provided, including a visit to an observatory at Toot Hill and an Avebury Sky Watch.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG magazine include the celebration of the group's 10th anniversary, the extensive documentation of UFOlogy-related activities (lectures, conferences, media appearances), reviews of other UFO publications, and discussions on current UFO phenomena and related controversies. The editorial stance, particularly from Steve Gerrard, is one of perseverance in promoting UFOlogy, emphasizing the importance of dedicated groups in keeping the subject alive, and a critical view of commercialism's influence within the UFO community. There is a clear dedication to sharing information and experiences, coupled with a pragmatic approach to organizing events and engaging with the public.

This issue of SUFOG magazine, covering pages 11 through 20, focuses on UFO sightings, crop circles, and paranormal phenomena, with a strong emphasis on critical analysis of events and reports. The September issue features Andy Buckley as a speaker on UFOs and crop circles, with a cover image of a famous UFO photo. Other upcoming speakers include Max Burns discussing the Sheffield UFO Incident.

Publication Details

The magazine is available for £9 for 14 months or 75p for non-members, delivered to the door. It can be ordered from SUFOG, c/o 133 Green Lane, Etching Hill, Rugley, Staffordshire, WS15 2AU. The magazine is bi-monthly, with voluntary subscriptions suggested at £1.50 per issue.

Content Highlights

UFO Sightings and Investigations

The issue is replete with reports of UFO sightings from around the globe. These include:

• US Sightings: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Kansas, Arkansas, Colorado, and Florida.
• International Sightings: Norway, Singapore, Australia (Victoria, Melbourne, Brisbane), Turkey, Canada, and the UK.
• Specific Cases: A detailed report from Grantville, Pennsylvania, describes a 12-year-old girl's sighting of two alien saucers. In Ohio, two triangular craft with multiple lights were reported. Georgia reported two disks with changing lights. Indiana featured a hovering saucer-shaped craft and an oval-shaped object. Nebraska reported a triangular craft hovering over farm fields. Wisconsin detailed a narrow, angled black triangle. Michigan noted an orb with flashing lights. Illinois reported a UFO hovering over an open field. A sighting in Crete described a UFO moving quickly upward.

Crop Circles

Crop circle formations are a recurring theme. The magazine mentions formations in Canada and the Netherlands. RAPPORT magazine features a 400-footer crop formation and other formations inside, with contributions from www.cropcircleconnector.com. A specific crop circle in the Netherlands, described as a 35-foot ellipse with a T-shape extending from it, was witnessed by Nancy Talbot, who also reported unusual lights and steam rising from the field.

World Trade Center Attack Analysis

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to questioning the official narrative of the World Trade Center collapse. Lee Robertson, a project structural engineer, claims the twin towers were designed to withstand aircraft impacts. The article highlights that the fires lasted only 1 hour and 27 minutes, and that the South Tower collapsed in less time than the North Tower. Van Romero, vice president for research at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, states that the collapse resembled a controlled implosion caused by high explosives. The article notes that firemen and police officers who entered the buildings did not believe they would collapse. It is suggested that the aircraft attacks may have covered up actual explosions, with explosives planted in the confusion. The article also mentions UFOs being reported in videos of the WTC attack, though Peter Davenport of NUFORC dismisses these as likely helicopters or aircraft debris.

Other Paranormal and Research Topics

• Project Hessdalen: Mentioned in relation to research on UFOs.
• Mars Research: Bill Clark discusses theories about gravitational flux on Mars as a cause for surface patterns, questioning the possibility of water existing on the planet due to its low gravity.
• Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI UK): The organization announces a name change from SPI Scotland and SPI England to SPI UK. It details its aims, which are to research and collect information on strange phenomena with an open mind. Contact details and meeting dates for 2001 are provided.
• Strange Times Magazine: This publication is highlighted, featuring articles by Judith Jaafar and Brian Allan.
• UFO Disclosure Project: Stephen Greer's project is briefly mentioned.
• Negative Gravity: A NASA press conference on evidence of negative gravity is noted.
• UFO Propulsion: Thoughts on UFO propulsion are discussed.
• UFO CD-ROM: The Black Vault has released a large CD-ROM containing thousands of declassified government documents related to the UFO phenomenon.

Reviews and Other Publications

• RAPPORT magazine: This publication from the Witness Support Group focuses on witnesses and includes articles on crop formations, UFOs, and the Foot and Mouth effects. It is available from James Millen, 84 Dyers Lane, Putney, London, SW15 6JU.
• NUFON (Northern UFO News): Described as the 'baby' of Jenny Randles.
• The Australian UFO Bulletin: This September issue from the Victorian UFO Research Society is noted for providing information that counters a perceived lack of incidents.
• SYNCHRONICITY: The newsletter of APRA (Anomalous Phenomena Research Agency) for August 2001 is reviewed, discussing crop circles and 'shadow beings'.
• AWARENESS SUMMER 2001: This Contact International UFO Research Journal is reviewed, covering topics like the Foot and Mouth crisis, Martian faces, and various UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, crop circles, and a critical examination of official explanations for significant events, particularly the World Trade Center attack. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging witnesses and researchers to share their findings. There is a clear skepticism towards official narratives and a willingness to explore alternative theories, especially concerning the WTC collapse and the nature of phenomena on Mars. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting other UFO research groups and publications, fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.

SUFOG (likely an acronym for a paranormal or UFO research group) presents its 21st and 22nd issues, focusing on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and Near Death Experiences (NDEs). The cover story, "SPACE VISIONS," highlights the work of Professor Leo Sprinkle and features Carol Rosin, who has a background in aerospace and missile defense. Rosin discusses her work in the field of space and cooperation in outer space, and her involvement with a retired Army Sergeant, Clifford Stone.

Space Visions and Alien Encounters

The "SPACE VISIONS" section introduces Professor Leo Sprinkle of Laramie, USA, described as the first professional to investigate abductee traumas. The six-page feature from the "Crone Chronicles" includes an interview with Carol Rosin, who previously worked in aerospace and founded the Washington D.C.-based Institute for Security and Co-operation in Outer Space. Rosin's article focuses on Clifford Stone, a retired Army Sergeant who claims to have worked on ET/UFO crash sites and maintains personal communication with live ET entities. Stone asserts that over 57 different ET species have been identified. He recounts an incident where a Government "guest" ET, in handcuffs, was introduced to him and communicated telepathically, leading to its escape. Stone warns that the US Government is developing weapons beyond current human comprehension, making humanity a direct threat to its visitors. He also suggests that ETs would prefer to welcome humans as space explorers rather than conquerors, emphasizing that "they" would not permit space conquest. The article encourages experiencers and abductees to "KNOW the TRUTH."

This section also mentions P.E.E.R. PERSPECTIVES, a publication that fell into the editor's hands. The editor had previously emailed Dr. John E. Mack, founder of P.E.E.R., but technical issues prevented direct document exchange. The editor relates their own abduction experiences, which paralleled those in Mack's book "Alien Encounters." The article quotes Mack's perspective that people with such experiences "move. They grow. They transform." It suggests that openness to the "divine" or "greater than our perception" allows encounters with beings that become part of a "sacred universe." The piece concludes that while "aliens" cannot directly solve ecological and social problems, ultimate responsibility for growth lies with individuals.

UPRI Newsletter and UFO News

The "UPRI NEWSLETTER" (UFO's and Paranormal Research Ireland), issue 3 of 2001, is mentioned as a source of interesting content, partly drawn from the media. Due to space constraints in SUFOG magazine, the bulk of this content will be deferred. The newsletter references Nick Cook's "Hunt For Zero Point" and his new book, posing the question of what would happen to the oil economy if free energy were publicly available. It notes that witnesses from the Disclosure Project claim free energy already exists. The article also touches upon the Cash-Landrum incident and the Chilbolton formation.

Near Death Experiences Seminar

Page 22 details a "NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCES SOUTHAMPTON SEMINAR" held on Saturday, December 8th, 2001, organized by the Horizon Research Foundation. Speakers include Dr. Peter Fenwick (Consultant Neuropsychiatrist), Dr. Sam Pardia (specializing in internal and respiratory medicine), Dr. Shebli Anvar (Research Engineer in Astrophysics, Particle Physics, and Nuclear Physics), Dr. Susan Blackmore (Psychologist and author interested in NDEs, noted for her skeptical attitude towards the paranormal and UFOs), David Lorimer (President of the Swedenborg Society), and Heather Slaon (who will speak about her NDE and is Office Manager of Horizon Research Foundation).

The seminar is presented as relevant to SUFOG members who have experienced "ghostly personages" and "other dimensions" or "parallel worlds." The author, Ernie Sears, shares his own experiences with "the other side," out-of-body incidents, and UFOs, stating his certainty that humans exist in another form on another plane after death. He has no personal NDEs but knows others who have. Sears plans to attend the seminar armed with knowledge and photographic proof.

The article notes that the Swedenborg Society has studied the writings of a spiritual investigator who claimed firsthand knowledge of life on the other side, referred to as a "medium" or "channeller."

Alien Abduction Experience and Research (AAER) Updates

AAER provides updates on alien abductions and UFO sightings. George Ritter has videotaped UFOs over Findlay, Ohio, with stills available online. More UFO photos from Ely, Minnesota, taken by Mr. T. Sutter, are also featured, including one with other witnesses and another showing anomalous energy fields over Birch Lake. These are accessible via www.abduct.com.

A research report titled "Abductee Physiological Abnormalities Research" by Dr. Phillip S. Duke discusses common physical problems faced by abductees and how they were alleviated in four case studies. Dr. Ross's analysis of the "Alien Autopsy: Fact or Fiction?" is also mentioned, clarifying details about UFO crashes and alien finger counts in New Mexico.

Readers have responded to alien symbols shown on the website, with new symbols to be uploaded soon.

Ministry of Defence Correspondence

A letter dated September 4th, 2001, from Admiral of the Fleet The Lord Hill-Norton GCB to A Ingram MP at the Ministry of Defence, discusses a letter received from Mr. Sears. Lord Hill-Norton states that he has received approximately twenty similar letters from Ministers over 20 years and is aware that officials are programmed to respond to UFO communications. He asserts his own extensive knowledge of both defense and UFOs, implying he does not need basic information. He questions the Ministry's ability to interpret photographic evidence, suggesting that Mr. Sears's video should be examined by an independent "Phot Int outfit" rather than Ministry officials. He notes that UFO-related articles sent to the Ministry often disappear. The core of Mr. Sears's case, as presented by Lord Hill-Norton, is that Sears and others twice observed and photographed a lighted object in the sky above Southampton Water, despite assurances that no aircraft were in the area. He also alleges that the Police have lied about their aircraft activities, questioning why such unexplained intrusions into airspace are not considered a defense interest.

Hampshire Constabulary Response

A letter from Stephen A Jefford, Inspector and Staff Officer to Chief Constable Paul R. Kernaghan of Hampshire Constabulary, dated July 3rd, 2001, responds to Mr. E. Sears. The letter refers to comments from the Executive Officer, Air Support Unit. Hampshire Constabulary records indicate their Unit was active in the Netley area for approximately 5 minutes on May 19th, 2000, and for about 20 minutes in the Netley/Weston area on May 5th, 2001. The crew reported no awareness of any bright lights, other than the planet Jupiter, which was exceptionally bright. They state that landing lights of aircraft are visible for miles at night and that the area is on the final approach to Southampton Airport. No other explanation is offered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG are the exploration of unexplained aerial phenomena, alien encounters, and the nature of consciousness beyond physical death. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards these subjects, presenting accounts from individuals like Clifford Stone and promoting research through organizations like P.E.E.R. and AAER. The editorial stance seems to encourage critical thinking and personal investigation, as evidenced by the inclusion of both personal testimonies and official correspondence. There is a clear interest in government transparency and the potential suppression of information regarding UFOs, as highlighted by the correspondence with the Ministry of Defence and the Hampshire Constabulary. The inclusion of NDEs suggests a broader interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding of reality and consciousness.