SUFOG Newsletter No 153-154

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG) newsletter, Number 153/154, dated July/August 2003, is a 12-page publication detailing recent UFO-related activities, discussions, and events within the UK UFO community. The newsletter is edited by Steve Gerrard and aims to keep members informed about sightings, research, and group activities.

Editor's Introduction and Contact Information

The editor apologizes for the delay in publishing the newsletter, explaining that as a one-man operation handling editing, printing, collating, and posting, it takes considerable time to produce a quality publication. He emphasizes his preference for getting it right. A new SUFOG mobile hotline is introduced for emergencies between 9 am and 9 pm, with a preference for text messages for non-urgent news, which also serves as a contact point for organized sky watches. The editor notes that SUFOG has received a couple of UFO reports, which are included in the newsletter, and stresses the importance of reporting even seemingly insignificant sightings.

News and Upcoming Events

Steve Gerrard announces his upcoming appearance on a Southampton TV program called "Honey I'm Home" on August 28th, discussing UFOs with Craig Roberts from Totton College's UFO collage course. The issue features articles contributed by group members worldwide, with more promised for the next issue. It includes a report on the group's annual sky watch in Wiltshire, where another UFO was reportedly sighted. Ernie Sears reviews magazines and newspaper articles, and examines the phenomenon of time distortion. The editor also discusses mysterious orbs, referencing a photograph from the Leeds 2002 UFO Conference. The newsletter lists upcoming events for October 2003 and encourages members to attend group meetings to show support.

Rendlesham Forest Incident Debunked

A significant portion of the newsletter addresses the Rendlesham Forest incident. A former US security policeman, Kevin Conde, claims he and another airman were responsible for the strange lights, admitting it was a prank involving shining patrol car lights through the trees and making noises on a loudspeaker. He stated, "It wasn't a UFO, it was a 1979 Plymouth Volare." Despite this admission, some witnesses still believe they saw something unusual. Sergeant John Burroughs of the US Air Force is quoted saying, "The blue lights coming down from the sky... I still have never heard of any technology capable of doing what I saw happening." The editor, Steve Gerrard, expresses doubt that the case will ever be definitively put to rest, especially with more people coming forward and the government holding documentary evidence.

Obituary: Victor Kean

The newsletter includes an obituary for Victor Kean, a researcher who passed away unexpectedly on July 6th. Kean, based in Berlin, Germany, was an active researcher of the "Flying Triangles" mystery. He had exchanged reports and built a database of FT sightings dating back to the 1950s and 1960s. The editor expresses hope that his research will be continued.

Hampshire Crop Circle Formations 2003

This section details several crop circle formations reported in Hampshire during the summer of 2003:

• April 20th: Privett - An '8' shape in a circle, 146' diameter.
• July 5th: A34 Beacon Hill, nr Litchfield - A curved triad design with three smaller circles.
• July 7th: Henwood, nr East Meon - A large triangle with a star formed from crossed paths.
• July 9th: Litchfield - A four-pointed star with a spiral and additional circular designs.
• July 18th: A342 near Weyhill - A large circle with a pointed star and eye/circle designs.
• July 20th: West Tistead, north of The Meon Hut - Four joined circles with a central design.
• July 23rd: Stephen's Castle Down, nr Corhampton - A single circle, approximately 50' diameter.

Group Member Bill Coones' Travels and Experiences

Bill Coones recounts his trip from Chicago to London, his experiences with baggage regulations, and his subsequent activities in England. He describes purchasing a motorhome and visiting Avebury for a crop circle viewing and a planned skywatch. He met John Woolard, who shared his expertise on crop circles and offered to lead them to a formation. Coones also mentions showing video footage of UFOs at Mt Adams to a new acquaintance.

Event: Alien Abductions - Fact or Fantasy?

A flyer announces an event featuring speaker Derrel Sims from Houston, Texas, on "Alien Abductions - Fact or Fantasy?" to be held at Charlton Church Hall, Nr. Andover, Hampshire, on Wednesday, October 15th, 2003, from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets are £7.00 in advance and £8.00 at the door, including light refreshments.

SUFOG Contact Corner and Newsletter Subscription

Contact details are provided for various organizations, including Phenomenon Research Association (Malcolm Robinson), UPRI (Ireland), and the Southampton UFO Group's newsletter subscription. The newsletter costs £7.50 per year and is published bi-monthly.

Discussion on BUFORA and UFOlogy Collaboration

Malcolm Robinson writes a lengthy piece addressing the importance of unity and accountability within the UFOlogy community, specifically focusing on the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA). He defends BUFORA and its members, including Judith Jaafar and Gloria Dixon, against what he perceives as unfair criticism and "bashing" from certain individuals and groups. Robinson highlights the significant contributions of BUFORA over the years, including witness support and research, and criticizes those who attack the organization. He calls for greater collaboration among UFO groups, suggesting that BUFORA needs to modernize its approach, perhaps by videoing meetings and producing merchandise. He also apologizes if his previous comments have offended anyone, particularly Judith Jaafar.

Brian James, the new editor of SPI magazine, is mentioned as having resigned due to editorial restrictions, which he felt infringed on his freedom of speech. This resignation is linked to the ongoing debate surrounding BUFORA. Steve Gerrard, SUFOG Chairman, comments on the situation, noting that Malcolm Robinson's public statements may now attract criticism.

BBC Radio Solent Drive Time: Are Crop Circles Genuine?

Steve Gerrard reports on his participation in a BBC Radio Solent phone-in program discussing the genuineness of crop circles. He represented the group and presented arguments for their validity, countering points made by experts from the National Farmers Union. He noted that crop circles are not exclusive to wheat fields and can appear in various locations. The program concluded with a majority vote in favor of crop circles being genuine. SUFOG was planning a skywatch/circle hunt in Avebury the following weekend.

SUFOG Diary - 2003

The newsletter includes a schedule of SUFOG meetings and events for the remainder of 2003:

• August 20th: Video Evening & Open Discussion (Rendlesham Forest UFO)
• September 17th: Video Evening (Roswell Interviews)
• October 15th: Video Evening & Open Discussion (Abduction Cartoons?)
• November 19th: Video Evening (Mysterious Rods)
• December 17th: SUFOG Christmas meeting.

Meetings are £3.00 for the evening. The group is also planning to invite guest speakers and will announce details in the next newsletter. Members are advised to contact the editor to confirm meeting dates and times, as sky watches may be cancelled due to weather.

Avebury - Flying Saucer on Skywatch Night! (August 16, 2003)

This section details an event at Avebury where a 'flying saucer' sighting occurred. It is revealed to be an elaborate hoax orchestrated by people aiming to fool visitors. A disk-shaped balloon, approximately 6-7 meters in diameter, with LED lights and electric motors, was flown over the village. A 'film crew' arrived quickly to interview witnesses, but their story about their location was inconsistent. The editor notes that the hoax would only fool those who wanted to be fooled. He was unable to attend but plans are underway for a similar event in 2004.

From Ernie Sears...

Ernie Sears shares an anecdote about President Jimmy Carter's promise to release UFO information. He states that Carter inquired about a mysterious craft, but his top intelligence man, identified as George Bush SENIOR, could not provide any information.

Personal Accounts and Observations

Steve (presumably Steve Gerrard) receives a message from Phil and Kay, who enjoyed a SUFOG skywatch night and express interest in future events. They mention a drive to Torquay and a quick return.

Red Lion Pub Sighting (Avebury)

Bill Coones describes a sighting near the Red Lion pub in Avebury. He observed a bright, turquoise, rectangular light on the roof, moving erratically. Initially thought to be someone on the roof, closer inspection revealed no access points or signs of climbing. He concludes it was a mystery or a "spook light." He also mentions plans for a trip to Bonsall and Castleton, and then to France for Neolithic cave art.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings and crop circles, the internal dynamics and challenges within the UFOlogy community (particularly concerning BUFORA), and the importance of collaboration and open communication among researchers and groups. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging active participation, reporting of sightings, and fostering a sense of community, while also acknowledging the complexities and controversies within the field. There is a strong emphasis on supporting British UFOlogy and moving forward collaboratively.

SUFOG, pages 11-20, is a UK-based publication focusing on UFOs and related phenomena, with this issue covering July and August 2003. The content is primarily a collection of newspaper reviews, personal accounts, and case reports.

Newspaper Reviews by Ernie Sears

The 'Newspaper Reviews' section by Ernie Sears provides a critical look at various articles published in UK newspapers during July and August 2003.

The Observer (July 6th)

This review highlights an article about 'Secret Papers' detailing how the RAF hunted 'aliens' in 1956. The incident involved 12 to 15 objects tracked by radar and pursued by fighters from RAFR Lakenheath for up to seven hours. The objects reportedly reached speeds of 4,000 mph and were tracked for 50 miles. Despite critics suggesting 'meteorites', some objects 'manoeuvred' around the fighters. Investigator Dave Clarke found the incident baffling.

The Daily Mail

Several accounts from The Daily Mail are discussed. One section covers correspondents claiming to have spoken to 'dead' persons. Examples include a conversation with a stepfather who had died years earlier, and a stepmother's conversation with a deceased person in 1954. Another article on July 25th focused on 'GHOSTS', with Dr. Wiseman attempting to prove they don't exist, attributing them to subconscious reactions, subtle electromagnetic fields, natural gases, or 'subconscious reactions of the brain to an enclosed space'.

The Daily Express

This newspaper also featured Dr. Wiseman, linking 'haunted' sites to 'underground faults' that take on luminous forms.

Southern Daily Echo

An item on the letters page asked if crop circles were 'elaborate hoaxes' or created by aliens. The responses were that they were hoaxes, though one person suggested 'there's something behind it'.

The Daily Express (July 19th)

This review mentions a scheme in Accrington, Lancashire, to spell out the town's name in hills, similar to Hollywood. A contest for public sculptures opted for a giant UFO type structure.

Unknown Newspaper

This publication reported on the discovery of a planet more than three times the age of Earth, potentially transforming ideas about extra-terrestrial life. The planet is 13 billion years old and a gas giant.

The Daily Mirror (July 15th)

This review mentions a 'Psychic Page' by Jonathan Cainer discussing crop circles and posing the question of whether they were made by artists or UFOs.

Personal Accounts and Investigations

The Daily Mail (July 2nd)

This review criticizes a full-page article in The Daily Mail about an American airman's claims regarding the Rendlesham 'Landing' mystery, calling it full of 'distorted claims and unbelievable errors'.

The Daily Mail (July 5th)

An article titled 'Is this proof we talk to the dead?' is discussed, referencing a new book. The author shares a personal experience of hearing a soft voice say 'ERNIE' while walking alone.

Daily Mirror (August 18th)

A 'REAL LIFE daily cartoon' features a 'UFO WATCH' character and a drawing of a 'green man' in an Adamski craft.

The Times

A solemn item under 'Daily Register' refers to the obituary of Gordon Creighton, Editor of 'Flying Saucer Review', who believed in an impending alien invasion.

Missing Time Etc... by Ernie Sears

Ernie Sears recounts an experience of 'missing time' on Monday, July 7th, where he lost two hours between 6:45 a.m. and 9 a.m. He later discovered an article by Professor Leo Sprinkle about 'Gaining Time', detailing an abduction experience where a woman gained an hour and a half on a trip.

Magazine Reviews

SUFOG (Page 13)

This section reviews several UFO magazines:

• SUFOG (July/August): Features an article on Britain's Beagle 2 heading for Mars, a dramatic account of a wartime bomber crew escorted by a 'mothership', and 84 UFO sightings by police officers. The August issue covers phantom helicopters, the Rendlesham hoax, Mont Blanc UFO photos, and potential links between USA/Canadian power outages and solar activity.
• New BUFORA Journal (June): Covers abduction, book reviews, Close Encounter '73, The Montauk and Philadelphia projects, and BUFORA lectures. Editor Norman Oliver is leaving.
• EYE Magazine: Described as 'For UFOlogists By UFOlogists', it features articles on groups, a review of Mary Rodwell's book 'Awakening', and East Yorkshire Encounters.
• RAPPORT: A colorful magazine for the Ken Phillips Witness Support Group, featuring a column by the author, UFO reports, and a review of Mary Rodwell's 'Awakening'. It includes accounts of Rendlesham and sphere spotting.
• GLOBAL UFO Investigation Magazine, UFOlogy Today: Donated for review, this publication is described as high-class but the review notes a scam involving subscriptions that never arrived.

SUFOG (Page 14)

• INUFOR DIGEST: Three copies are reviewed, highlighting connections with The Victorian UFO Research Society. Articles include 'CIA's Role in the study of UFO's, 1947-1990', VUFORS sightings, the Australian National UFO Conference, and 'Alien artefacts were retrieved in 1939'.

Orbs of Mystery.. Or not...

This section presents views on 'mystery orbs' captured in photographs. Russel Callaghan, who spoke at the Leeds UFO Conference, sent photographs of the event containing numerous orbs. The author believes these are an artifact of camera infra-red focus control, illuminating dust or particles close to the lens. He notes that while faces sometimes appear in these orbs, it's likely due to luck. The article also questions why orbs are not seen on video cameras and are only apparent in digital images taken 'afterwards'.

From the Editor Of UFO Magazine (UK)

This section announces the death of Gordon Creighton, former British Diplomat and Editor of 'Flying Saucer Review', at the age of 95. Graham W. Birdsall, Editor of UFO Magazine, pays tribute to Creighton, calling him a remarkable man and a great proponent of ufology.

A biography of Gordon Creighton is provided, detailing his life, career in the diplomatic service, and his interest in UFOs, which was aroused in China in the 1930s. His funeral details are also given.

BBC Radio Solent Curious Questions Answered

Steve Ladner (filling in for Sue) was interviewed on BBC Radio Solent on July 17th, 2003, to answer questions about UFOs. Questions included whether there is a government department dealing with UFO sightings, if UFOs were seen before the 20th century, where UFOs are most likely to be seen, how skeptics explain UFOs, and if there is a world body that would talk to aliens. The interview also mentioned a personal account of a UFO sighting by the presenter's father over 50 years ago.

ET 'Abduction' – Is This Really The Right Terminology? By Brian P James

This article explores the term 'abduction' in the context of UFO lore, suggesting it arose after the Betty and Barney Hill incident in 1967. The author posits that 'abductions' may not occur at a physical level but on an astral or spiritual level, and that witnesses might be 'willing participants'. An analogy is drawn to animals in a zoo being examined by keepers, suggesting that humans might misunderstand the procedures performed by 'higher beings'. The article encourages a re-evaluation of 'abduction' misconceptions.

SUFOG Case Reports

Several case reports are included:

• SG/21/03: A bright blue/white object, pea-sized, was observed during a SUFOG skywatch at Knapp Hill, Wiltshire, on August 3rd, 2003. It moved upwards, faded, and disappeared. The witnesses were unable to provide a rational explanation.
• SG/20/03: A report from West End, Southampton, dated August 3rd, 2003, with no further details provided.
• Date/Time reported: August 4th (Monday) at 14:30hrs: A strange light, like a 1p coin at arm's length, moved in a slight arc, blinked out, and was bluish-white and round with no tail.

UFO SIGHTINGS RECORDED INFORMATION LINE

This section provides contact information for the UFO SIGHTINGS RECORDED INFORMATION LINE, operated by UFOMEK.

Avebury 2003 - SUFOG Skywatch

This report details a SUFOG skywatch event at Avebury. The author, Steve Rider, Mark Hilton, Kevin Nicklen, and others participated. They observed the International Space Station, satellites, and shooting stars. The report also mentions seeing crop circle formations and mysterious 'orbs' in photographs taken at the West Kennett Long Barrow. The event involved a group of 4 members and later joined by others. There was a minor incident where Kevin became separated from the group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG include the critical review of media reporting on UFO phenomena, the exploration of unexplained aerial phenomena like 'orbs', and discussions on the nature of consciousness and potential non-physical encounters ('abductions'). The magazine appears to maintain a skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging readers to question and investigate further. There is a strong emphasis on personal experiences and witness accounts, alongside reporting on UFO research and investigations from various sources. The editorial stance seems to favor critical analysis of newspaper articles and a deeper exploration of the psychological and philosophical aspects of UFO encounters, while also documenting specific sightings and events.