SUFOG Newsletter No 167-168

Magazine Overview

This is the September/October 2004 issue of the "SOUTHAMPTON UFO GROUP" newsletter, identified as Number 167 and 168, covering '12 Years of Investigation'. The cover features the group's name, contact details, and a call to visit their website. The newsletter's editor apologizes for a postage underpayment issue and offers a refund. A significant portion of the editorial expresses concern about the decline of UFOlogy in the UK, citing low attendance at meetings and conferences, and the passing of influential figures like Dr. John Mack and Gordon Cooper.

Contents

The newsletter contains a variety of articles, including:

• Page 2: The Scotsman 2.9.04 - Is strange space signal a sign that ET's mother has called back? This article, by James Reynolds, discusses the SETI project's detection of a potential alien signal (SHGb02+14a) from the Arecibo radio telescope, its characteristics, and the scientific community's reactions, including skepticism from Dr. Eric Korpela and Dr. Jocelyn Bell Burnell.
• Page 3: Aliens in our Midst? By Derek Neary, this section reports on a Nahanni Butte resident, Earl Hope, who observed large circles of fallen trees, suggesting a possible UFO connection. It also mentions a UFO sighting in Fort Liard and Hope's personal UFO encounter. Regional biologist Nic Larter offers an alternative explanation involving extreme weather or dust devils.
• Lord Wordsworth College Talk... 17th September 2004... A personal account of giving a talk to a college audience, which was initially daunting but ultimately successful, with discussions extending to ghosts.
• Page 4: Passing Of Dr John Mack: This section confirms the death of Dr. John Mack in London, struck by a drunk driver. It provides biographical information, highlighting his Pulitzer Prize-winning biography of T.E. Lawrence and his work on the spiritual and transformational effects of alien encounter experiences. His advocacy for a transpersonal worldview is noted.
• Page 5: SUFOG CONTACT CORNER.... Lists contact details for Phenomenon Research Association and UPRI (Ireland). It also details the SUFOG Newsletter Subscription, costing £8.00 per year, with the newsletter consisting of no less than 10 double-sided A4 pages.
• Page 6: What's New? Betty Hill Passes Away... Aged 85 October 17, 2004... Reports the death of Betty Hill, described as the 'Grandmother of UFOlogy,' from cancer. The article recounts the famous 1961 abduction narrative of Betty and Barney Hill, their hypnotherapy sessions, the 'star map' drawn by Betty, and the media attention it garnered.
• The Portsmouth Herald - New Hampshire 19th October 2004 - Woman Who Gained Fame With UFO Narrative Dies: By Kathleen D. Bailey, this article also covers Betty Hill's death and her role in bringing the topic of alien abduction into national dialogue.
• Page 7: Andover 12th September 2004... A sighting report from Andover, UK, describing multiple pairs of rapidly flashing red and white lights moving silently at low altitude.
• Page 8: Great News for UFOlogists Everywhere... Discusses the UK's upcoming Freedom of Information Act (FOI), initially feared to be expensive but now largely free, allowing access to official documents.
• Page 9: SUFOG Video Sale.. Lists various UFO-related videos available for purchase from SUFOG, including titles on Roswell, abductions, and NASA's moon footage.
• Sightings from the past over Hampshire: This section presents three reported sightings from the SUFOG Database: Aldershot (dog stopped, object with lights), Andover (three slow-moving white lights in formation), and Cosham (spinning white lights, humming noise).
• Page 10: Newspaper Reviews By Ernie Sears: This review covers articles from The Daily Mail, The Times, and The Sunday Express regarding mediums, communication with the deceased, and the work of Professor Wiseman. It also references an article on Dr. John Mack's life and times from The Sunday Times and obituaries from The Guardian, The Telegraph, and The Daily Express.

Key Incidents and Cases

• SETI Signal (SHGb02+14a): Detected by the Arecibo telescope, this signal is considered a strong candidate for extraterrestrial communication.
• Nahanni Butte Circles: Large, circular patterns of downed trees observed in Canada, with potential UFO or natural explanations.
• Betty and Barney Hill Abduction: The well-known 1961 case involving a reported UFO encounter and abduction, which significantly raised public awareness.
• Andover Sighting (2004): Multiple pairs of silent, flashing lights observed in formation.
• Aldershot Sighting (1970): An object with revolving lights observed while a dog refused to move.
• Cosham Sighting (1995): A large, silent object with spinning lights and a humming noise was seen.

Key Persons and Organizations

The newsletter prominently features Dr. John Mack and Betty Hill, both deceased figures central to UFOlogy. Other mentioned individuals include Gordon Cooper, Nick Redfern, Tim Good, Jenny Randles, and various scientists and researchers involved in SETI and UFO investigations. The Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG) is the primary organization, with mentions of Phenomenon Research Association, UPRI, MUFON, and the Campaign for Freedom of Information.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The dominant themes are the state of UFOlogy in the UK, which the editor views as declining ('dead'), contrasted with ongoing research and sightings globally. There is a focus on significant figures in the field, both living and deceased, and their contributions. The introduction of the FOI Act is presented as positive news for researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of concern for the future of UFOlogy in the UK while continuing to report on sightings and research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the perceived decline of UFOlogy in the United Kingdom, with the editor expressing disappointment over low public engagement and the lack of prominent researchers actively participating in UK-based events. This is juxtaposed with continued reports of UFO sightings and scientific investigations, such as the SETI signal. The newsletter aims to keep its subscribers informed about these developments and to encourage continued interest and support for the group's activities. The passing of key figures like Dr. John Mack and Betty Hill is treated with respect and highlights their lasting impact on the field.

This issue of SUFOG (PAGE 11-19) is a comprehensive exploration of UFOlogy, paranormal events, and related topics, featuring news, personal accounts, reviews, and event reports. The magazine covers the passing of notable figures in the field, investigates crop circle phenomena, and reviews several other publications.

Tributes to Gordon Cooper and John Mack

The issue opens with a tribute to astronaut Gordon Cooper Jr., who passed away at 77. It recounts his UFO encounters in space and a notable incident in 1951 where a 'formation' of 'saucers' overflew his German airbase for several days, eluding his fighters. Cooper also reportedly embarrassed NASA colleagues with tales of UFO encounters and conspiracy theories, and in 1978, he advocated for a UN panel to coordinate UFO data.

A significant portion is dedicated to the passing of Dr. John Mack, a Harvard Professor of Psychiatry, who died in a road accident at 74. The article highlights his controversial research into alien abductions, which gave credence to 'experiencers' and led to an inquiry by Harvard. Despite facing criticism from peers, Mack continued his work, authoring books like 'Passport to the Cosmos'. His research was seen by some as exploring a planetary ecological crisis.

Letters and Personal Accounts

A letter to The Times Newspaper reflects on the debate about God and references Bryan Appleyard's article on John Mack's tragic death. The writer shares their own experiences with 'alien abductions' and discusses John Mack's work and the concept of 'inner knowledge' gained from encounters, suggesting a universal linkage and a new 'love' for creation.

Another section expresses a sense of urgency, stating 'TIME IS RUNNING OUT' and emphasizing the need to support colleagues and the SUFOG organization, highlighting that the world is in 'desperate circumstance' and freedom is threatened.

Magazine Reviews

Ernie Sears provides a 'MAGAZINE REVIEWS' section, covering several publications:

• NEXUS (October/November issue): Described as sensational, it covers topics like hidden agendas, medical mistakes, people power, invented diseases, magnetic motors, crop circles, and UFOs. It is recommended for its variety and interest, costing £2.95.
• Beyond belief: This magazine was chosen due to its proximity and potential usefulness, with the writer noting its close publishing office.
• SUFOG's own magazine: The first issue was in April 2004, and the current issue is praised for its glossy, full-colour format with Gothic aspects and cover paintings by Steve Fox. It features genuine stories and costs £2.80 per copy.
• Ovni: An interesting magazine from the Phenomenon Research Association, it covers Flying Triangles and activity over the USA. It is available for £1 per copy.
• UFO MONTHLY.COM: This publication is noted as still going strong, though only available online. The September issue is reviewed, with praise for its coverage.
• RAPPORT (August-July issue): This magazine from Ken Philips Witness Support Group is described as well-produced and covering topics like Planet X, Egyptology, reincarnation, meditation, and UFO sightings. It has a suggested price of £2, bi-monthly.
• UFO REVIEW: This issue is called a 'cracker', featuring a byline from Brian James and an interview with Will Hart. It covers various UFO-related topics and events.
• UPRI NEWSLETTER (Number 3 2004): Published in Ireland, this magazine features news, press cuttings, ghosts, and UFO reports. It highlights an attempt to 'GAG' UPRI Research and mentions crop circle investigations.

SUFOG Event: Silver in those Circles

This section details the annual SUFOG sky watch and circle hunting event held on Saturday, August 14, 2004, at Avebury. The author recounts the journey, including a traffic incident, and the decision to visit Avebury over Exeter. The group visited several crop circle formations, including the 'Dolphin formation' at Alton Priors and formations at Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow. A sign at the Silbury Hill formation requested a donation of £1 to help pay for crop damage.

The Silbury Hill Mian 2012 Calendar Formation

This formation was said to tell the story of the end of the Earth in 2012 and had been featured in the Daily Mail. The formation was impressive from both the air and the ground. A donation was requested to enter the field.

Discovery of a 5 Pence Piece

While examining the Silbury Hill formation, the author discovered a 1999 British 5 pence piece buried upright in the ground. This discovery raised questions about its origin, with theories including it being a 'calling card' from the 'Circle Makers' or ET. The author notes that the ground was compacted, and the coin could not be pushed in easily, suggesting it was deliberately placed. The author expresses doubt about the Silbury Hill formation being genuine if it was a hoax.

Other Formations and Observations

The group also investigated other formations, including one described as a 'rising sun and moon design' near the West Kennet Long Barrow. They also visited Avebury Trusloe to investigate a remote formation. The author notes the presence of an honesty box for donations at this location.

Sky Watch Experience

The event concluded with a sky watch at a car park opposite Adams Grave. The group observed airplanes, satellites, shooting stars, and meteorites. Despite some cloud cover, the sky watch was considered a fitting end to the day, although it was cut short around 2 a.m. due to the sky going very black.

Book Review: Who are they? by Margaret-Ellen Fry

This section reviews Margaret-Ellen Fry's book 'Who are they?', which investigates UFO alien abductions and paranormal events. The book details Margaret's personal involvement in abduction cases, drawing on her research since 1965. It covers the earliest abduction case in North Wales in the 1870s and explores the possibility of UFO phenomena affecting families for generations. The review emphasizes that the book presents factual accounts rather than re-hashed stories and encourages readers to consider the reality of these improbable abductions.

Psychiatrist Criticised for Giving Credence to Alien Encounters

This article from The Guardian (dated 5/10/04) discusses psychiatrist John Mack, his controversial research into alien encounters, and his death in a road accident. It details his work with 'abductees', the inquiry launched by Harvard into his methods, and his defense of his research as an 'authentic mystery'. The article also touches on his earlier work on TE Lawrence and his later focus on psychological and social change, including his role in establishing the Centre for Psychological Studies in the Nuclear Age. Steve Geller provides a personal tribute to Mack, highlighting his intelligence, compassion, and scientific rigor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SUFOG are UFO sightings and encounters, alien abductions, crop circles, and the broader implications of these phenomena for humanity and the planet. There is a strong sense of urgency and a belief that 'the truth' is within reach, coupled with a call for support for UFOlogy organizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation into these subjects, acknowledging both the scientific and the more speculative aspects, while also reviewing and promoting other publications within the field. The magazine seems to advocate for a deeper understanding of our reality and our place in the cosmos, often linking these phenomena to larger ecological or existential crises.