SUFOG Newsletter No 141-142

Magazine Overview

This is the July/August 2002 issue of the SUFOG (Southampton UFO Group) newsletter, identified as Number 141 & 142. The publication covers a period of intense activity for the group, marked by significant media engagement and numerous UFO sighting reports. The cover prominently features the SUFOG logo and the tagline "10 Years of Investigation."

Editorial Content

The newsletter opens with an editorial by Steve Gerrard, reflecting on the wealth of UFO information circulating in the media and the group's busy schedule. SUFOG has been involved in a television interview and multiple radio programs, alongside giving talks. Gerrard highlights a particular incident where SUFOG apparently upset a Mexican researcher due to disagreements over research methods concerning a 'Bedhampton' case. He then lists recent events, including filming for 'Southern Ways' TV program, a screening of the program, and appearances in The Observer, Daily Star, BBC Radio Solent, Two Counties Radio, BBC Radio Wales, The Daily Mail, GMTV, and the Sunday Express.

Media Appearances and Interviews

BBC Radio Solent - Mike Powell Show (23rd June 2002): Steve Gerrard recounts his experience being interviewed on the show, which unexpectedly turned into a 30-minute special. He discussed his introduction to UFOlogy, and along with David Kingston, covered various topics. The program provided good coverage for the group.

Two Counties Radio (23rd June 2002): Following the Radio Solent appearance, SUFOG secretary Steve Rider was invited to speak on this sister program. Rider spent 20 minutes discussing the group and promoting their activities, making it a successful day for publicity.

BBC Radio Solent - Curious Questions Answered (11th July 2002): Gerrard appeared on this program, which was dedicated entirely to UFOs due to the volume of listener questions. He answered questions on topics such as government contact with aliens, the origin of UFOs, crop circles, and the existence of alien life.

UFO Sightings Reports

Davina Reynolds (24th June 2002): Reported seeing a brilliant light in the sky near Lordshill, Southampton, which vanished and was replaced by another similar object.

Davina Reynolds (17th July 2002): Sighted a red light moving towards the Isle of Wight, followed by another, emitting white flashing lights and moving silently.

Ferne and Robert (mid-June 2002): Members from Christchurch reported a "balloon" shaped, illuminated object flying silently from Bournemouth towards New Milton at Hengistbury Head.

Basingstoke Family (17th July 2002): An anonymous family reported a "rugby ball shape or a fat cigar" craft with lights all around it, estimated at 500 feet altitude, flying over Worting.

Author's Sighting (18th June 2002): The author describes a second sighting of an oval object with lights, stationary for a long period over Hamble Lane, Bursledon. This sighting was similar to one seen years ago in NW London, involving a hovering object that performed complex maneuvers.

International Sighting (Western Australia): A correspondent named Tanya and Damien reported seeing bright orange balls of light, often in threes or twos, travelling at high speeds, hovering, and changing size, sometimes as close as 100 feet.

Book Review: "The Missing Times" by Terry Hansen

Ernie Sears reviews Terry Hansen's book, which he describes as potentially life-changing. The book details alleged governmental and media conspiracies related to UFOs, including infiltration by covert agencies and censorship. Sears initially found the content disturbing but ultimately concluded that optimism prevailed, highlighting the role of modern technology and the internet in combating misinformation.

Janus Concert Experience (12th July 2002)

Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider attended a concert by Janus, whose music is inspired by UFO experiences. They met other UFOlogists, including Graham Birdsall and Russel Callaghan from Leeds, and Malcolm Robinson and Judith Jaafar. Gerrard mentions attempting to resolve past issues with Judith Jaafar. The concert featured synthesized music and laser lights. Despite offering free tickets, only a few SUFOG members attended, leading Gerrard to question future free offers.

GMTV: Crop Circles (16th July 2002)

Steve Rider recorded a segment on GMTV about crop circles, featuring a large formation at Stonehenge. Gerrard criticizes the inclusion of a "douser" who he claims made a mockery of the subject by obviously manipulating a crystal. He rates the program low for content but high for comical value.

SUFOG Diary - 2002

The diary lists upcoming SUFOG meetings and events, including group meetings, an open day at Peartree Church Hall on November 2nd (£6.00 tickets), and a winter sky watch in the New Forest.

Project Phoenix

An email from Dmitry Golub and Alexey Gavrilov in Russia introduces "Project Phoenix," which aims to study UFO movement and create a prototype propulsion system. The project involves research, theoretical modeling, experimental laboratory experiences, and computer simulation. They invite interested individuals to participate.

SUFOG Contact Corner

This section provides contact details for various UFO research groups across the UK and Ireland, including Cornwall UFO Research Group, Phenomenon Research Association, Skysearch UFO Research Organization, and UPRI (Ireland).

Newsletter Subscription

Details are provided for subscribing to the SUFOG newsletter, which consists of at least 10 double-sided A4 pages and costs £7.50 per year, published bi-monthly.

Advertising

An advertisement offers space in the SUFOG newsletter for £20 for six editions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently emphasizes the importance of media engagement for SUFOG, highlighting their participation in radio and television programs as a key method of publicizing their work. There is a strong focus on reporting UFO sightings, with detailed accounts from members and the public. The editorial stance appears critical of certain research methods, as seen in the critique of the Mexican researcher and the GMTV crop circle segment. The newsletter also promotes a sense of community among UFO researchers, evident in the reporting of events like the Janus concert and the inclusion of contact details for other groups. There's an underlying theme of combating misinformation and debunking efforts, particularly in Ernie Sears' book review and his newspaper reviews.

This issue of SUFOG, covering pages 11 through 20, focuses on UFOlogy, crop circles, and related phenomena, with content primarily from July and August 2002. The publication appears to be a newsletter or magazine for a group interested in these topics, featuring news reports, personal accounts, and reviews of other relevant publications.

News and Reports

The issue begins by referencing several newspaper articles. The Daily Mail of July 15th is mentioned for an article on a large crop formation near Stonehenge. The Sunday Express of July 21st reported on a British Transport Policeman, Gary Heseltine, who is creating a database for police officers to record UFO sightings. The Southampton Daily Echo of July 1st published a letter from the author regarding a UFO filming. The Daily Star of June 29th highlighted claims by Dr. David Clarke about a secret service cover-up of UFO evidence. The Daily Telegraph of July 25th reviewed a Discovery Channel program, 'Britain's Secret UFO Hunters,' which examined the link between the Cold War and UFOs, though it concluded with a lack of proof for UFO existence, a point the author dismisses. Another Daily Mail article on July 29th reported on two F-16 fighter jets being scrambled to intercept a mysterious blue object over Washington.

A specific incident is detailed: a UFO photographed at 3.30 p.m. on June 20th, 2002, off Sandown Coastline, Isle of Wight. The photograph shows a round, white object following three helicopters, with four more behind. The witness, who emailed the editor, provided three photographs taken with a Fujifilm NX-1200 digital camera.

Magazine Reviews

Ernie Sears provides reviews of several publications.

Fortean Times: The July issue featured a large UFO on its cover. The editorial by Bob Rickard and Paul Seveking is described as tongue-in-cheek, which led the reviewer to cease buying the magazine years ago. An article focused on George Adamski, and another reviewed Colin Bennett's book 'Looking for Orthon.' The panel at the UnCon 2002 event caused 'disquiet' for being allegedly 'biased towards scepticism.'

UFO Magazine: The July and August issues are discussed. The front page headline was 'Wake up People, UFO's Are Real!' Articles covered 'A Matter of Defence Significance' and 'The Mirrors of Whitehall,' exploring links between UFOs, the media, parliament, the MoD, and UFOlogy. It also mentioned a new 'Area 51' film, Michael Jackson's interest in aliens, two sightings over Farnborough, and crop circle experts stating not all formations are man-made.

EJUFOAS (Journal of the Totton Researchers of UFOlogy and History): Four issues from September 2000 to March 2002 are reviewed. Cases mentioned include one over Great Britain on January 16th, 1947, involving a Mosquito night fighter. It also notes new UFO cases from Munich and the Hessdalen phenomena. Alfred Budden wrote on ball lightning. The EJUFOAS website is mentioned, having received over 100,000 hits by March 2001. Volume 3 (1) 2002 covered 'Flying Saucers Behind the Cold War Veil of Military Intelligence' and 'Anomalous Luminous Phenomena.' A Canadian UFO Survey showed an increase in sightings in 2001, with 15% unexplained. Chris Rutowski of the University of Manitoba Public Affairs Department is quoted as saying these surveys are 'worth a debate.'

AWARENESS (Journal of Contact International UFO Research): The Spring 2002 issue is described as pocket-sized and well-produced. Editor Geoff Ambler writes with humor. The article notes that while Beckham's interest might raise public awareness, the ongoing mystery will not be solved. The author's prognostication is that the 'cosmic ball is in the "aliens" court.' It also mentions American Fire-fighters' code for 'Enemy Attack and UFO Potential' and seven universities offering courses on UFOs. A Pentagon cryptologist reportedly viewed extraterrestrial space debris, and a NASA sub-contractor saw satellite photos of flying discs that had been airbrushed out.

INUFOR DIGEST (Independent Network of UFO Researchers): Issues from April 2002 and November 2001 are summarized. The journal has undergone a 're-think,' becoming larger with improved photography and content. A Somerset-based article by Gloria Heather Dixon of BUFORA is highlighted. The April 'Special Edition' features Welsh UFO history, donated by Margaret Fry. The November 2001 issue includes an article by Moira McGhee on 'The Barrington Triangle' near Sydney, Australia, detailing sightings and paranormal events. Other highlights include vehicle interference incidents and aborigine history related to UFOs.

ENIGMA: Two issues from Paul Vigay are reviewed, described as a 'reprint' and a 'collector's item.' Vigay is noted as being difficult to contact. The issues focus on crop circle enigma, with issue 22 being an annual catalogue of crop circles.

RAPPORT (London Witness Support Group): The May-June edition, issue 46, is reviewed. Under the new editor Mike Rutter, it is subtitled 'Enlightenment.' It covers paranormal and UFOlogical connections in pop music, with the author mentioning Manfred Mann and Kate Bush. Ex-Editor of Rapport James Millen writes on 'Phenomena of Time.' The magazine is described as being for 'witnesses for witnesses.'

PSYCHIC NEWS: The July 13th issue features UFO items. An article discusses a pastor protesting a medium's clairvoyance event. The author notes that the Pope states 'life on other planets' must be allowed for and advises against using the term 'Flying Saucers.' A report on the second National Skywatch event at Bonnybridge is included. An updated book on crop formations by Andy Thomas is mentioned, with a foreword by film director Mike Leigh. Andy Thomas is set to appear on TV documentaries.

OVNI (Phenomenon Research Association): The May-June magazine is reviewed. An article by Busty Taylor promises findings on oil seed rape crops that suggest some formations could not have been made by hoaxers. Omar Fowler asks 'Could Aliens be Among us?' The issue includes sightings around Derbyshire, an 'Adamski' style craft, a triangular object, and 'diamond shaped lights.' A Derbyshire incident describes a large shiny globe. A blue beam from an unobserved source struck a car driver on Bonsall Moor, causing radio interference. An article by Santiago Yyurria on the 'enigmatic and profuse Bedhampton, Portsmouth, "craft"' is also mentioned.

SUFOG Activities

8 Crazy Days: SUFOG on the way, to where?

This section recounts a series of events involving SUFOG members. It begins with a speaker selection day at WI House in Winchester on Wednesday, July 10th, where Steve G. and the author gave a talk. Despite initial uncertainty, the talk was well-received, using photos to illustrate points, including a 'ghostly photograph' that served as a teaser.

July 12th, The Janus Experience: Steve G. and the author attended an invitation-only gig by Janus in London. Ten SUFOG members had been offered tickets. The event featured a show with lasers, video, and Janus's music, described as having a UFO theme and being a 'premiere show.' Janus plans to bring the 'Roswell and Beyond' show to SUFOG's open day on November 2nd.

WI Talk 18th July: Steve G. gave a talk at a WI meeting, with the author providing technical support. They showed footage, including their appearance on Southern Ways and SUFOG UFO footage. The author also briefly discussed other SUFOG activities, including Ghost research.

Avebury Sky Watch 2002: This event took place around July 19th. Despite abysmal weather forecasts, the author and Steve R. attended. The event involved meeting other group members, looking at crop circle formations (one of which was described as a hoax with the word 'ENERGY' written in it), and visiting Avebury. The weather was poor, with thick grey cloud and rain, preventing skywatching. The group dispersed around 7 p.m. The author expresses doubt about continuing the Avebury mass skywatch adventure in 2003.

Avebury Skywatch 2002 - August 3rd/4th: This report, by Brian James, details another attempt at an Avebury Skywatch. The party, numbering 7 people, faced heavy rain initially but it cleared after 8.30 p.m. They found a site in the Avebury henge. A 'stunt-driving' incident involving a car entering the henge enclosure occurred. The group observed the ISS Freedom and a rapidly moving flashing red light. By 11.00 p.m., mist built up, and by midnight, cloud cover prevented any skywatching. Rain started again by 1.00 a.m. Sunday, leading to the abandonment of the skywatch. The author notes that the sky cleared later, suggesting they may have left too early. Plans for another Avebury Skywatch in August 2003 are mentioned.

Personal Accounts

Mysterious Spheres, Contact in 2001 - A Personal Account By Stuart Wisdom: Stuart Wisdom details his experiences filming UFOs, primarily 'spheres,' starting in April 2001. He thanks Chris Martin for initiating his interest and his wife Nicolette for her patience. He describes initial skywatches in East London and then in his back garden using binoculars, observing high spheres. In May, he purchased a Sony Hi8 camcorder. He recounts attempting to communicate with ET individuals telepathically.

• July Sightings: On July 12th, near the Big Brother studios, he filmed two spheres appearing suddenly. On Monday, July 23rd, in his back garden, he filmed a bright object that moved away and appeared to morph into a sphere shape over 4 minutes. On July 29th, he filmed another sphere.
• August Sightings: On August 1st, he filmed a sphere that faded out, followed by an oblong object that appeared to eject tiny objects. On Wednesday, August 15th, he filmed an oblong object with a sphere at the front, and another sphere that was morphing into different shapes. On Saturday, August 25th, despite poor visibility, he filmed spheres that appeared to be rotating or flashing. He also mentions an unframed sighting in mid-August.
• Poole, Dorset UFO Report: An email received on August 12th, 2002, reported a UFO sighting over Poole at 11.30 p.m.

Wisdom states his goal is to gather evidence of ET presence and inform both believers and sceptics. He has witnessed numerous UFOs and believes in an ET intelligence monitoring Earth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, crop circles, alleged government cover-ups, and the personal experiences of UFO investigators and witnesses. The editorial stance, particularly from the author of the 'SUFOG on the way, to where?' section, is one of strong belief in the reality of UFO phenomena and skepticism towards official denials and mainstream media coverage that is perceived as dismissive or biased towards scepticism. There is a clear emphasis on sharing evidence and personal accounts, encouraging others to engage with the subject with an 'open mind.' The reviews of other publications indicate a broad interest in the field, covering various aspects from historical cases to current sightings and crop circle research.

This document consists of two pages from a flyer or newsletter announcing an Open Day hosted by the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG). The event took place on Saturday, November 2nd, 2002, at Peartree Church Hall, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Event Details

The Open Day offered a variety of attractions, including refreshments, stalls, UFO displays, and live music. The event aimed to bring together enthusiasts and the public to discuss and explore topics related to UFO phenomena.

Speakers and Presentations

A notable feature of the event was the lineup of speakers. These included Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider, who presented "The Leeds Lecture." Chris Martin was also scheduled to speak. Colin Bennett, identified as an author, was set to present on the topic "Looking for Orthon." Live music was provided by a group named Janus.

Ticketing and Logistics

Tickets for the event were priced at £6 each. A ticket application form was provided, requesting the sender's name, address, and post code, along with the total value of tickets desired. Cheques and postal orders were to be made payable to the Southampton UFO Group. The return address for the application form was SUFOG, 25 Weston Grove Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 9EE.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, attendees could contact Ernie Sears, the Public Relations Officer, at tel: 02380 456000. The Southampton UFO Group also maintained a web presence with the website address www.sufog.freeserve.co.uk and an email address: [email protected].

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this document is the promotion of a public event focused on UFOs and related subjects, organized by a specific UFO research group. The stance is promotional, aiming to inform the public about the event's details and encourage attendance. The inclusion of speakers, displays, and music suggests an effort to make the event engaging and informative for a broad audience interested in the unexplained.