SUFOG Newsletter No 139-140

Magazine Overview

This issue of the SUFOG (Southampton UFO Group) newsletter, numbered 139 & 140 and dated May/June 2002, marks the group's 10th year of investigation. It covers a range of UFOlogy-related topics, including recent sightings, media coverage, crop circles, and the internal dynamics and challenges faced by local UFO groups.

SUFOG's Activities and Media Presence

The newsletter opens with an update on SUFOG's activities, noting that another two months have passed with the group feeling 'shafted' regarding UFO sightings. It highlights the case of Mr. Anthony Woods and 'Bambi' with sightings in Bedhampton and Portsmouth at the end of 2001 and beginning of 2002, who contacted researchers in Denmark and Mexico instead of local groups. On a more positive note, SUFOG appeared in a three-part UFO special on BBC television's 'Southern Ways,' interviewed by Mike Powell. The group also anticipates a radio program on June 23rd featuring Mike Powell's afternoon show on Radio Solent. A two-page review of the 'Disclosure Project,' re-activated by Mark Hall, is featured in The Daily Express of June 16th, with more details promised for the next edition.

SUFOG is actively seeking engagement, inviting replies to Steve's article to be published in the newsletter. They are also organizing transport for members interested in attending the Leeds conference in September, though attendees must arrange their own tickets and accommodation. A specific meeting point at The Barge PH in Alton Barnes is mentioned for Saturday, August 3rd, with transport arrangements to be confirmed. The annual Avebury weekend 'Sky Watch' is scheduled for August 3rd-4th, but due to the cost of hiring a minibus (£300) and a required £250 deposit, a minibus will not be provided this year.

'Time for a Change!' by Steve Rider (SUFOG Sec.)

This article expresses Steve Rider's personal views on the state of UFOlogy. He argues that local groups like SUFOG need a change, lamenting the lack of support unless a well-known author is involved. Rider is concerned that national media coverage of UFO footage prompts individuals to bypass local groups in favor of more famous researchers. He notes that SUFOG has often passed reports to more capable researchers when cases are outside their area, but is frustrated when sightings within their own area are not reported to them, citing an instance of a sighting within walking distance of his home that was never investigated by SUFOG.

Rider emphasizes the hard work SUFOG puts into organizing events like meetings, lectures, and skywatches, yet notes that only a core group of dedicated individuals consistently attend. He calls for support not just from members but from the public. He also touches upon the high cost of obtaining good UFO footage, referencing the 'Bonsall footage' and a £20,000 payment issue. He questions whether people bypass small UFO groups for fear of losing their footage to TV companies or for the desire for airtime and exposure, suggesting fame might be a motivator.

Rider raises a specific concern about a witness who chose to work with a foreign investigator rather than a local UK group. He questions how a foreign investigator can properly assess a case without on-the-spot research of the area, conditions, and witnesses. He suggests that having a local contact could make investigations more credible or reveal deception sooner. He advocates for working together, stating that if groups continue to work apart, pieces of the jigsaw will remain missing.

UFOs Over Bedhampton, England

This section expresses frustration that UFO sightings in Hampshire, like one over Hamble (5 miles from the author's location), are not reported to SUFOG. The author criticizes 'UFO Magazine' for publishing a sighting report without following up with an investigation. Another case involves Mr. Woods, who, despite not wanting publicity, approached Santiago Yturria Garza in Mexico with footage, even though SUFOG had a table at the Leeds conference where Woods could have made contact. The author questions why Woods didn't approach local UK groups like UFO Magazine, BUFORA, or SUFOG. The case of 'Bambi' is also mentioned, who has video footage from the Bedhampton area and approached Danish UFO researchers Christoffer Walter instead of SUFOG, despite SUFOG's known presence and accessibility.

UFO Magazine, June Edition

A brief story from The Sun and Daily Star on May 16th is reported, detailing how RAF pilots are being taught to spot and report UFOs, with cadets shown video footage of a 1990 sighting of a cigar-shaped object near the Dutch border. The article notes that the story's roots go back several years and involve an individual with a proven MoD (Whitehall) and Parliamentary connection since 1976. Enquiries are ongoing, and the outcome will be in the July issue.

Hong Kong, China - UFO Research

The newsletter reports that UFO research is treated seriously in China. Joseph Wong, a lab manager at Hong Kong's City University, is a science enthusiast who believes there's a good reason to understand why UFOs appear. Albert So, a university professor and Hong Kong UFO club member, emphasizes the need for a broad understanding of various disciplines to comprehend UFO phenomena. The Hong Kong UFO enthusiasts are described as researchers, not just stargazers, and they are lobbying for a university degree program in 'UFOlogy.' Wong believes studying aliens helps satiate curiosity and understand ourselves and our planet.

'Celestial' Crop Circle Formation Appears in Wiltshire, England

This section details a new crop circle formation in Wiltshire, appearing in a field of rape on Cannings Down near Beckhampton. The formation, 135ft at its widest, consists of a large raised circle with smaller circles and appears celestial, like three satellites and a planet. Investigator Charles Mallett notes the neatness of the laid areas but also broken crop, suggesting prior visitors. The article mentions that the first formation of 2002 in England was reported a month prior at Long Road, Soberton, Hampshire.

Crop Circle Formations 2002

A list of reported crop circle formations in 2002 is provided, with details for Canada (Saskatchewan), Germany (Hessen, Kassel-Area, Zueschen, Sinsheim), Lithuania (Jurkupiai village), New Zealand (complex designs), and the United Kingdom (Long Road, Hampshire; Avebury-Devizes Road, Wiltshire). The US also reports formations in Indiana and Pennsylvania.

SUFOG Speaks Again

This section, attributed to S. Rider, recounts an evening talk given by the author to the Fareham Holistic group. The talk had to be adjusted last minute due to the unavailability of TV. Rider describes the challenging weather conditions and the walk to meet Steve. The meeting involved a talk on early UFO sightings and a screening of SUFOG footage, which was well-received and led to healthy debate. Rider expresses satisfaction with the event and willingness to return. He also mentions that Steve Gerrard will be speaking on Crop Circles later in the year, indicating SUFOG's continued success.

Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears

This section provides a compilation of UFO-related news items from various newspapers:

• The News of the World (Sunday, May 13th): An article titled 'Celebrity Space Invaders' features celebrities like Muhammad Ali, William Shatner, David Duchovny, Olivia Newton John, Will Smith, and President Jimmy Carter discussing their UFO encounters. Mikhail Gorbachov is quoted as saying the subject must be treated seriously. David Bowie and John Lennon are also mentioned with their UFO experiences. Charlie Sheen reportedly saw a craft accelerate at indescribable speed, and Dave Davies of The Kinks claims alien abduction. Dan Aykroyd saw objects tracking across his sky, and Jimi Hendrix reportedly had contact with uninvited guests during a concert in Hawaii, with UFOs reported over the location.
• The Daily Telegraph (April issue): Reports that scientists at Leicester University have recreated a Martian atmosphere for the Beagle 2 mission, which will be carried by the European Space Agency's Mars Express.
• The Daily Express (April 25th): Features a two-page spread on 'The Royal Family's X-Files,' illustrated with images of Mulder and Scully, and alleged 'genuine alien activity.' Nick Pope is mentioned, and the Rendlesham Forest photo is questioned. The Bonsall photo is used again, and another photo is described as huge and unbelievable. Lord Hill-Norton is mentioned, but the MoD maintains there is 'no defence significance.'
• The Daily Mirror (May): Includes items on its psychic page, with a headline 'Aliens caught mapping.' It refers to Russian archaeologists discovering three-dimensional maps from 120 million years ago, suggesting they are machined and possibly the work of a pre-dinosaur alien civilization, according to Uri Geller.

Conclusion

Steve Rider concludes by reiterating that his comments are not sour grapes but an attempt to show that even small UFO groups have a contribution to make if given the chance by witnesses, other groups, and researchers. He expresses hope that he and Steve Gerrard will do justice to UK UFO groups at the 21st Leeds UFO Conference. The article stresses the need for cooperation and support within the UFO community to progress and gain respect for the subject, emphasizing that 'the little man' has as much to contribute as the 'big man.' The concluding statement is 'UNITED WE STAND. DEVIDED WE FALL. TOGETHER, THE TRUTH IS OURS.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the importance of local UFO groups and the need for collaboration within the UFO community. There is a strong undercurrent of frustration regarding the lack of support for local groups like SUFOG, particularly when witnesses or media bypass them in favor of national or international researchers. The newsletter advocates for a more unified approach to UFO investigation and reporting, emphasizing that information sharing and mutual support are essential for the subject's credibility and progress. The editorial stance is one of advocacy for local research and a call to action for greater community involvement and cooperation.

This issue of SUFOG, dated June 2002, is Volume 13, Issue 11, and is published by UFOMEK. The cover prominently features "UFO SIGHTINGS" and a "RECORDED INFORMATION LINE" with a contact telephone number. The magazine focuses on UFO phenomena, book reviews related to the paranormal, and analysis of media coverage concerning UFOs.

Media Coverage and Public Discourse

The issue begins by referencing a book review in a previous SUFOG issue about Charles Fort, a collector of odd items and UFO incidents. The Mirror newspaper ran a second item on Fort, coinciding with a new book release. The Daily Telegraph featured two letters on May 14th and 16th. The first, from Capt. Dennis Plunkett, offered a factual account of UFOlogy and its positive aspects, heartening those who have had experiences. The second, from Commander R.N. Geoffrey Sherman, took a skeptical stance, questioning the proof of genuine UFO sightings and denying secrecy surrounding them. The author of the article sent a letter to Sherman, including quotes from Royal Naval personnel and pilots.

The Daily Mail of May 14th featured an obituary for Sir Bernard Burrows, described as an 'Ambassador to Turkey' with an interest in the paranormal and crop circles, who also investigated hauntings and automatic writing. He published 'A Myth for Our Time' in 2001, examining the origin of the universe from a humanistic perspective.

The Mirror also featured an item by Uri Geller discussing the 'Fifth Dimension.' The article notes Prof. Stephen Hawking's views on God and UFOs. Geller's test involves dowsing, which he claims provides insight into the fifth dimension.

The Mail on Sunday (May 19th) reviewed Hilary Evans' book, 'Seeing Ghosts: Experiences of the Paranormal.' The review, by Harry Ritchie, expressed skepticism about the lack of proof for millions of ghostly visitations over 2,000 years, leading the author to question Ritchie's own depth of inquiry.

The Daily Mail (May 13th) reported on 'Monsters of The Deep,' suggesting that eerie ocean noises could be from undiscovered sea monsters. The article mentions noises picked up from thousands of feet deep, potentially related to US subs searching for Soviet subs, and quotes Dr. Christopher Fox, who suggests volcanoes and icebergs as possible explanations, contrasting with Timothy Good's 'Alien Bases.'

A letter in The Daily Mail from K. Wilford questioned the lack of recent UFO reports, suggesting aliens might be distracted by the World Cup or observing humanity's self-destructive tendencies. The author of the SUFOG article disagrees with Wilford's assessment.

Magazine Reviews

UFO Magazine (May issue) is highlighted for its editorial defending UFOlogy. It covers the Derbyshire village of Bonsall and the Laughlin, USA, UFO Congress Convention and Festival. The magazine features top speakers and is described as well-illustrated and in-depth, though the author feels British publications are a 'poor cousin' in comparison. It mentions the Leeds biggie on September 20th-22nd, Ron Russell's response to an article on 'The Secret Art,' the Peruvian Air Force launching an Official UFO Study Group, and 'West Country UFO's in the fifties,' 'UFO's in ancient art,' and discoveries on Mars. The June issue of UFO Magazine is noted for its dramatic claim that the 'decline of FO sightings could not be further from the truth,' and it covers a lunar 'shard' in film, a Crowborough close encounter, and 'Eye witness reports.' It is available bi-monthly for £2.50.

Rapport Magazine (March/April issue) from the London-based Witness Support Group is recommended for its voluntary subscription. It focuses on actual witnesses and avoids skeptics.

New BUFORA Journal returns to its original title with a revamped cover and layout. It features articles on Hessdalen lights and Science and the UFO, with contributions from Philip Mantle. It is available from BUFORA Ltd.

Australian UFO Bulletin (June edition) from the Victorian UFO Research Society reports on UFO activity, including videos of objects reacting to lasers or flashlights. A contact in Victoria has been observing them since June of the previous year, with Paul Norman reporting observing two large objects with smaller ones operating from them. A pilot in Kansas reported seeing an unlit, sideways-flying plane. A witness in Britain videoed two UFOs over Broughton Moor, Cumbria, in March.

Synchronicity magazine (April issue), from APRA (The Oxfordshire organisation), is a pocket-sized publication featuring experiencer accounts, analysis of UFO color changes and photos, and a review of 'Looking for Orthon.'

Book Review: "The Time of our Visitation" by John E. Chitty

Ernie Sears reviews "The Time of our Visitation," a 649-page book by John E. Chitty. The book is described as largely based on Biblical readings, tracing history from before civilization to 'Creation' by an advanced being referred to as 'God' or 'Yahweh,' and his 'angels.' It suggests these beings arranged the planet's birth and the moon's placement to create tides. The book incorporates 'Craft' of advanced kinds and connects to the present UFO enigma. Chitty extrapolates Biblical accounts to fit his theories, including 'alien' species and reptilian types hidden in underground caverns. The book's chapters include Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Kings and Chronicles, Ezekiel, Isaiah, Jeremiah, fallen angels, and molten underground rivers. The author suggests this explains the 'cheesy' smell reported by abductees. The book costs £30.99 and is described as a 'make your own mind up book.' Sears notes his own sixty years of experiences and thousands of accounts that align with these theories, mentioning advanced technology and surgical skills. He finds the book worth investigating, as it could explain government denials.

Book Review: "Unearthly Disclosure" by Timothy Good

Ernie Sears also reviews Timothy Good's 2001 re-issue and update of his bestseller, "Unearthly Disclosure," available in paperback for £6.99 in the UK. The book is described as having sold well. Sears notes Good's incredible but proven contents in all his books on UFOs, with the Daily Mail acknowledging his authority. Admiral Lord Hill-Norton confirms his 'high regard' for Good's integrity. The book features 'astonishing colour photos' of an alleged 'alien' creature and accounts from experienced pilots. Conversations with 'top level sources' in the military and scientific community confirm the existence of alien bases beneath the planet's waters and terra firma, and that many abductees are telling the truth. The book discusses alien discovery related to the largest radio telescope on earth at Puerto Rico and includes photos of alleged Italian 'aliens' and the 'Chupacabra' near Puerto Rico. Sears considers Good a brave author and wonders why attempts haven't been made to silence him. Good stated that 'Unearthly Disclosure' would be his 'last book,' but Sears suspects this may not be the case, believing Good is dedicated to 'THE TRUTH.'

SUFOG and Southern Ways Filming

Steve Gerrard recounts being contacted by Southern Ways for a television program about UFOs. A film crew visited his home on June 14th, filming various activities for a 30-minute program, though only 3 minutes were aired. The program featured David Kingston, Busty Taylor, Craig Roberts, and the Southampton UFO Group Sky Watch. Gerrard's 11-year-old son commented that his father's interest in UFOs gives him 'something to do at night,' and his 14-year-old son Chris found the footage boring and preferred 'Neighbours.' Gerrard's wife, Anne, provided sandwiches and coffee for an evening sky watch. Gerrard was interviewed about setting up the group. The filming included packing and unpacking equipment multiple times and footage of owls in his wife's Brownie pack. The filming also captured his cat watching the crew.

During the filming at Cheesefoot Head near Winchester, the crew experienced a sudden appearance of sunlight, which then disappeared. The group members present included Steve Rider (Secretary), Ernie Sears (Public Relations Officer), Bill and Jean Smith, Davina Reynolds, and Andy Philips. Ernie Sears, aged 77, reportedly had a fall while climbing a gate.

Despite the short airtime for the program, Gerrard emphasizes the value of any publicity for the group. He also mentions a potential appearance on Radio Solent on June 23rd, where Mike Powell would interview David Kingston about UFOs.

Christoffer Walther's Commentary on Footage

Christoffer Walther, a Danish UFO researcher, presents a case involving a British woman named Bambi who captured UFO footage. The initial sighting occurred during the day as a white disc-like object. Later, the object returned at night, appearing as a white glowing stationary object, sometimes changing shape. It was also sighted the following morning by garbage men. Walther notes that this object appears triangular, unlike the previous sightings.

Walther also addresses the possibility of camera artifacts, such as bloom and shutter effects, causing distortions in zoomed footage. He compares the UK footage to the STS-75 NASA image, noting similarities in the 'notched' UFO shape and pulsing lights. He suggests that the Sony 700 camera used had additional zoom capabilities. He invites information on the Sony 700's shutter shape.

Test Footage I: "Orion Belt"

Bambi's friend attempted to reproduce the "Derbyshire" phenomena by zooming in on the Orion Belt stars with the same video recorder under similar conditions. The result was negative, with the camera unable to get a close zoom-up or distort the image significantly.

Test Footage II: "Clearest star in night sky that she could locate"

In a second test, the subject was asked to film the brightest star in the night sky and zoom in. The result was negative, with the footage showing only a regular white star, far from resembling the UFO footage.

Analysis of "moonref.qt" clip

This clip shows a large moon, but no stars are registered, possibly due to the moon's light pollution or the camera's small lenses. Other lights visible are on the ground, and there is a single other light in the sky, which is not identified.

Conclusion on Bambi's Sighting

Bambi is convinced the phenomenon was extraordinary, not a star, planet, or natural object. It changed shape, moved, and was seen during the day. The footage was released publicly regardless of potential benefit. Walther hopes the scientific community will take the UFO dilemma seriously and encourages the release of the original "Derbyshire/Bonsall" video for examination.

Bambi is a 26-year-old single mother living in a suburb to London. Christoffer Walther is a 29-year-old Danish computer scientist.

Turkey UFO Landing

In Antalya, Turkey, 45 people claimed to have witnessed a UFO landing and an alien emerging. The alien was described as emitting red rays from its eyes and having red hands and feet, with an iron-like appearance. It was reportedly 1.80 meters long with a big head. Haktan Akdogan, president of the International UFO Museum and SIRIUS, was flying to investigate.

SUFOG Diary - 2002

The SUFOG diary lists upcoming group meetings, an Avebury trip, video evenings, lectures, and a Christmas party throughout the latter half of 2002.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG include the reporting and analysis of UFO sightings, the examination of media coverage and public perception of UFOs, and the review of books and magazines related to the paranormal. The editorial stance appears to be supportive of UFOlogy and encourages serious investigation into unexplained phenomena, while also acknowledging and analyzing skeptical viewpoints. There is a clear effort to present evidence, such as video footage, and to encourage public participation and discussion.