SUFOG Newsletter No 181-182

Magazine Overview

This document is issue number 181/182 of the "SOUTHAMPTON UFO GROUP" newsletter, dated November/December 2005. The group has been "15 YRS IN THE MAKING". The cover features a festive "Happy Christmas & New Year 2006" graphic and a photograph of Portsmouth Harbour with two small unidentified objects noted as "UFO Photographed by George". The newsletter provides contact information via email and a website.

Editors Corner

The editor apologizes for a previous error regarding page numbering and notes that this issue, being the Christmas edition, includes more images from George's photographs. The editor hopes to make the front cover color in future issues, depending on cost. A new group printer fund has £185.00. The editorial also announces a new setup for the group's investigators, with Julian Carson as Director of Investigation, supported by Roger Anderton and Allan Woods. Emails to the group's address will be forwarded to Julian.

New for 2006

Starting in February 2006, the group will launch a DVD library service for members. DVDs can be borrowed for a maximum of two weeks at a cost of £3.00 including postage, or £2.00 if hired at a meeting. Return postage is the borrower's responsibility (around £1.00). A late fee of £1.00 will be charged for overdue DVDs. A waiting list will be maintained for popular titles.

Contents

• The newsletter's contents include:
• Editors Corner
• BBC South Today report (Nov 29, 2005)
• SUFOG Photograph Collection
• Triangle & Plasma report
• UK UFO Reports
• Portsmouth Photo's
• Newspaper Reviews
• A Vintage Case
• Magazine Reviews
• World News and UFO Reports
• Minutes from the SUFOG Meeting (Nov 16, 2005)
• Paranormal UFO Reports

SUFOG Members on BBC South Today (Nov 29, 2005)

The editor discusses a BBC South Today program featuring SUFOG members Ernie Sears and Davina Reynolds. The editor expresses disappointment with the program, citing several factual errors, including misnaming Ernie Sears as Ernie Spears, referring to the group as the "Southern UFO Group" instead of "Southampton UFO group", and inaccurately stating the group skywatches "virtually every night". Despite the errors, the program is credited with bringing the subject into the open in the South, but the editor feels it did not benefit the group. The segment is rated 7/10.

UFO's Over Hampshire... (Isle of Wight 1950 - 2002) (Part 6)

• This section details several UFO sightings:
• October 14, 1995: A huge light, the size of a car, appeared on a car's bonnet at Linn Bottom Tip, swerved away, and vanished. The journey took over half an hour.
• March 1996: A female witness in Ventnor reported one object and two smaller ones, silent, 300 yards away, large silver saucer-shaped with bright orange lights, seen for 25 minutes. They separated and rejoined.
• April 4, 1996: A black triangle was sighted on the Isle of Wight.
• September 1996: A bright but hazy light was observed over E.Cowes, stationary, with a dull buzzing noise heard.

Images from the SUFOG Photograph collection...

Page 4 displays various photographs related to SUFOG activities:
1. A "Mystery Orb" at a SUFOG conference in 2001.
2. SUFOG UFO Footage showing a Hampshire Police spotter plane circling.
3. A UFO filmed during a SUFOG Sky watch.
4. Steven Gerrard and Steven Rider at an event in Leeds 2002.
5. Steve Gerrard skywatching on October 12, 2003.
6. Dr. J. Mack and Steve Rider at an event in Leeds 2001.
7. Dr. R. Lear, Steve Gerrard, Graham Birdsall, and Steve Rider at an event in Leeds 2002.

SUFOG CONTACT CORNER....

This section lists contact addresses for various UFO research organizations worldwide, including UPRI (Ireland), DEGUFO (Germany), Victorian UFO Society (Australia), Junji Numakawa (Japan), Contact International UFO Research (UK), Magonia (UK), UFO Monthly.Com (UK), Gary Heseltine (UK), Omar Fowler (UK), and A.J. Gevaerd (Brazil).

Southampton UFO Group Newsletter Subscription Details

Details are provided for newsletter subscriptions and memberships, which consist of at least 12 double-sided A4 pages and are published bi-monthly. UK Single Membership is £10.00, Joint Membership is £15.00, and Family Membership (4) is £25.00, all per year including postage.

Tennessee (USA) - Triangle and Plasma

A report from Bristol describes a sighting on October 31, 2005, at 7:40 PM of a bright orange egg-shaped light that descended slowly, appearing to drip orange fire. The object disappeared behind trees. The local FAA office was contacted but did not observe it.

UK UFO Reports...

Saturday 17th September 2005 - UFOs Above Loughton: Residents reported seeing lit, orangey objects moving at high speed in a triangular formation. Shelley Ginn described them as "phenomenal" and "extremely bright", noting they made no noise. A similar sighting in Epping was later identified as Thai lanterns.

The Berkshire Chronicle... Oct 11 2005 - Latest UFO Is Spotted Hovering Over Birch Hill Homes: A noisy UFO was reported hovering over Birch Hill, described as a "pile of scaffolding with lights, red, blue and orange ones", with a spotlight moving around. Witnesses compared the sound to a vacuum cleaner or generator. The event woke residents around 2:30 AM.

The Western Mail... Oct 26 2005 - Close Encounters Of The Mind Kind

This article discusses research by Professor Chris French of Goldsmiths College, London, suggesting that claims of alien abduction may be linked to psychological vulnerability, false memories, and a tendency to hallucinate. The study compared 19 alleged "abductees" with 19 volunteers, finding "experiencers" scored higher in paranormal belief, hallucination tendency, and dissociative tendencies. Sleep paralysis is also noted as a common factor associated with alien abduction experiences.

The Lichfield Mercury... 3 October 2005 - Strange Sights In The Sky? Could aliens have landed in Lichfield?

A resident reported witnessing a mysterious object in Lichfield on a Monday night. Described as a yellow, very bright light, it moved quickly and appeared in two parts, resembling a flying saucer with a bubble. Four other people reportedly witnessed the event.

SUFOG DIARY - 2006..

• The diary lists upcoming events and DVD evenings for 2006, including:
• January: Cattle Mutilations DVD
• February: UFO's: Put to the Test & UFO Hot Spots DVDs
• March: Rods DVD
• April: Paranormal Evening: Ghosts DVD
• May: Real UFOs & UFOs, Lies and the Cold War DVDs
• June: Group member Presentation (TBA)

Meetings are scheduled at the CIU Club, Victoria Road, Netley Abbey, Southampton, from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a £3.00 charge to cover room hire. Attendees are advised to contact the editor to confirm meetings, as Sky Watches may be cancelled or changed.

Portsmouth Harbour ... 9th November 2005... Above..

This section shows photographs labeled "UFO 1..." and "UFO 2..." taken at HMS VICTORY, dated 9/11/05.

Portsmouth Harbour ... 23rd November 2005... Above

Another photograph shows a UFO over Portsmouth Harbour on November 23, 2005.

More UFO's snapped over Portsmouth...

This article highlights George's photographic efforts in Portsmouth Harbour. Despite his poor eyesight, the UFOs are visible in the printed photographs. PRO Ernie Sears is expected to provide a full update on these images.

NEWSPAPER REVIEWS BY ERNIE SEARS.

The Daily Mirror : 13 October 2005 - UFOs: The Secret Evidence Pick Of The Day Channel 4: This review discusses the belief in UFOs and distinguishes between "Unidentified" and "Extra-Terrestrial". It mentions the possibility of secret aerospace technology and references "Foo Fighters" from WWII.

THE DAILY EXPRESS for the 15th November: This review covers an article with dramatic illustrations and a headline stating "Yes, aliens DO exist". It quotes Astronomer Royal Sir Martin Rees questioning why aliens haven't visited if they are common. The reviewer also mentions a letter sent to the Express.

THE DAILY EXPRESS for October 22nd: This review discusses a book titled "Abducted" by Susan Clancy, which explores traumatic alien kidnappings. It notes a survey claiming one in four people believe ET exists and presents the author's views on close encounters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the reporting and analysis of UFO sightings across the UK, the critical examination of media coverage of UFO phenomena, and the presentation of photographic evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, acknowledging the public interest in UFOs while also highlighting factual inaccuracies in media reports and exploring psychological explanations for witness accounts. The group actively engages with its members through a newsletter, meetings, and a new DVD library service, aiming to foster a community of interest in the subject.

SUFOG, Page 11, is a publication focused on UFO phenomena, featuring a mix of news, reviews, and personal accounts. This issue, dated around November 2005, includes reports on various sightings, investigations into government secrecy, and reviews of other UFO-related media.

Cover and Lead Stories

The cover of this issue is not visible, but the content highlights several key areas. A prominent mention is made of THE DAILY EXPRESS featuring an article by ex MOD 'expert' Nick Pope, focusing on the Rendlesham Forest incidents and quoting Georgina Bruni's book. It also references an updated book by Larry Warren. The Southampton Advertiser is noted for an item on a 'cigar' shaped object over Portsmouth Harbour, leading to exposure for SUFOG members on BBC TV SOUTH TODAY.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The magazine details numerous UFO sightings from various locations:

• Portsmouth Harbour: Several photos of a 'cigar' shaped object with 'weird black globes' are mentioned, with ongoing sightings and photos being published.
• Telford, UK: Tony and Steve Millward reported seeing a 'ball of bright white light' flying in a straight line.
• UK Sightings: The issue mentions swarms of unidentified flying objects over the M25 near Potters Bar (October 20, 2005) and a similar 45-strong formation over Redbridge in September.
• Belleville, USA: The community's annual UFO Day is highlighted, stemming from UFOs sighted on January 16, 1987. Reports include flashing red, blue, and white lights and cigar-shaped objects.
• Toronto, Canada: A white streak, brighter than a meteor, was observed on November 2, 2005.
• Halifax, Nova Scotia: A witness saw a three-angled chevron-shaped object, silent and dark, on November 2, 2004.
• West Indies: A formerly classified Air Intelligence Information Report #112 from March 1958 details three unexplainable radar contacts, with aircraft showing triangular shapes and erratic movement.
• Mexico Sightings: Reports include a large flying object accompanied by a smaller 'escort' from Mexico City (November 1, 2005) and a shining spherical object in Coyoacán. Ana Luisa Cid witnessed an elongated luminous object on November 2, 2005.
• Tehran, Iran: General Parviz Jafari, an Iranian Air Force pilot, describes his firsthand account of chasing a UFO in the 'Tehran Dogfight' incident on October 25, 2005.
• Buenos Aires: Ricardo E D'angelo reports on UFO flotillas observed over the city, causing electrical disturbances and headaches.

Investigations and Analysis

Bob Lazar Case: The issue delves into the claims of Bob Lazar, who alleges he worked with alien craft at a secret U.S. Government facility called 'Area S-4' at Papoose Lake, Nevada. The analysis by Glenn Campbell points out that Lazar has lied about his educational credentials and position at Los Alamos, suggesting his story might be a fabrication to fool John Lear or a part of a government plan.

NSA UFO Investigations: A declassified NSA document from 1980, released via a FOIA request, reveals that the NSA held 239 documents related to UFOs. These documents, primarily from 1958-1979, include intercepted communications and radar observations of 'unidentifiable' objects and phenomena, suggesting the NSA was involved in monitoring such events, particularly during the Cold War.

Magazine Reviews

Several other publications and media are reviewed:

• RAPPORT magazine: Praised for its September/October issue featuring a photographed 'weird object' and 'Ernie's Column'.
• UFO monthly.com: Noted for its November issue, including photos of Portsmouth Harbour sightings and UFOs over the M25.
• OVNI: The bi-monthly magazine for Omar Fowler's Journal of the Phenomenon Research Association, focusing on natural forces and UFOs.
• The Great British UFO Show: A review of the Leeds Conference, highlighting the presence of 'serious minded ufologists' and 'experiencers'.
• Channel Four's 'Hidden Evidence': The review suggests the presenter might have missed key evidence by not visiting certain locations.
• AWARENESS: A pocket-sized product from Contact International UFO Research, featuring an 'Adamski' type UFO on its cover and drawing attention to fluctuating weather patterns.
• Australian UFO Bulletin: Described as a 'pocket sized and smart cover' magazine with active reporting on UFO sightings in Australia.

SUFOG Group Activities and Announcements

Minutes from the November 16, 2005 meeting detail several points:

• Library: A suggestion to create a small library of borrowed books.
• Radio Program: The commencement of a new SUFOG Internet Radio program in 2006.
• Name Badges: Enquiries about producing professional name badges with the group's logo.
• Meetings: Discussion of upcoming Christmas and New Year meetings, including a potential meal and presentation event.
• Printer: Update on the purchase of a printer, funded by donations.
• 2006 Meeting Subjects: Plans for talks on the Paranormal and the subject of hoaxing using photographs.
• Lapel Badges: Alan to provide an update on SUFOG lapel badges.
• 15th Birthday Celebrations: Suggestions include naming a star after the group or having a meal event.
• Sightings Update: The group was updated on three recent sightings posted on the National UFO Reporting Centre website.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent reporting of UFO sightings globally, the ongoing debate about government transparency and secrecy regarding UFO information (highlighted by the NSA document analysis), and the promotion of ufology as a serious field of study. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open investigation and sharing of experiences, as evidenced by the call to action: "THE TRUTH is OUT THERE and HERE TOO. If you are a genuine 100% 'experiencer' you will possess THE KNOWLEDGE USE IT!" The magazine also actively reviews and promotes other UFO publications and events, fostering a community of interest.

Title: SUFOG
Issue: PAGE 21 (and subsequent pages)
Date: 31st May 1973 (referenced for one article)
Publisher: SUFOG
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of SUFOG, a publication focused on the paranormal, delves into several intriguing cases and phenomena. It features reports on ghostly sightings, UFO-related theories, and the persistent mystery of cattle mutilations.

Supernatural and Unexplained Phenomena

Southampton Ghostly Photograph

A photograph taken in Hill Lane cemetery in Southampton is presented as evidence of a ghostly or 'devilish' image that was not present when the picture was captured. The article speculates whether 'something' was trying to communicate from the other side, leaving the interpretation to the reader.

The Cavalier Hitch-Hiker

An article from the Southampton Evening Echo dated 31st May 1973 recounts an unusual encounter. Bob Gorman, a motorist from Bitterne, Southampton, reported seeing a man dressed in cavalier costume standing by the side of the road, appearing to hitch-hike. His passenger, Eileen Obec, was frightened, and Gorman himself was unnerved, stating, "Personally, I don't believe in ghosts or any of that rubbish, but this has me beat." The figure's arms were outstretched, and it looked as if it was trying to stop them. Another car that stopped shortly after reportedly sped away looking worried.

UFOs and Government Conspiracy

Referencing Mel Gibson's movie 'Signs', the magazine explores a theory that a US government plot aims to control people's minds using special radio signals. The article suggests that wearing 'protective' tin-foil hats might be a way to block these signals. Research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is mentioned, indicating that while tin-foil helmets reduced some frequencies, they amplified others, coincidentally coinciding with radio bands reserved for US government use, fueling conspiracy theories.

Colin Andrews and Crop Circles

Colin Andrews, a researcher into crop circles, is reported to have put his entire collection up for sale on eBay for a staggering $250,000 (£145,636). His stated reason is the lack of personal funds and drying up of donations, making it impossible to continue his research. The article laments the departure of researchers like Andrews and Busty Taylor from the field.

Cattle Mutilations

Widespread and Unsolved Mystery

The magazine dedicates significant space to the ongoing mystery of cattle mutilations, which have been reported in all 50 US states, with over 10,000 cases documented. Despite the prevalence, no one has ever been caught or convicted. The phenomenon is described as a felony in many states.

Nevada and Beyond

Recent mutilations are highlighted in Nevada, where lawmen are baffled. The cuts are described as precise, surgical, and unusual, with no blood left at the scene, and no tracks found. Deputy Sgt. Keith Altemueller of Lander County notes the lack of evidence regarding how, when, or by whom these acts are committed. Former state Sen. Floyd Lamb has also experienced such incidents on his ranch.

Investigation by NIDS

The National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS) in Las Vegas is presented as the leading scientific organization investigating these mutilations. NIDS dispatches teams to sites to collect samples, which tests confirm were made with sharp instruments, ruling out predators. The article explores various scenarios, including satanic cults, government involvement for environmental monitoring, or industrial purposes, but finds no definitive answers.

Strange Cases and Locations

One particularly strange case occurred in Utah, where a newborn calf was found completely stripped of flesh, with 60 percent of its body weight removed cleanly, as if by a scalpel, in broad daylight. The article notes that some cattle appear to have been dropped from the air, and odd chemicals, like cauterizing agents, have been found. Recent cases have occurred at high altitudes in New Mexico, even in snow-covered mountains, where flying would be difficult and no tracks are left.

Unanswered Questions

Investigators and ranchers are left with many questions. The precision of the mutilations, the removal of specific body parts (eyes, ears, sex organs, tongues) not for food, and the lack of any trace evidence challenge conventional explanations. The article concludes by emphasizing the ongoing nature of the mystery and the difficulty in understanding the motives behind these acts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SUFOG consistently explores the unexplained and the potentially hidden aspects of reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on reported phenomena, presenting theories, and highlighting the lack of definitive answers in cases ranging from local hauntings to widespread, inexplicable events like cattle mutilations. There is an implicit encouragement for readers to consider these mysteries and form their own conclusions, as evidenced by the concluding remarks on the Southampton cemetery photograph. The magazine seems to lean towards presenting evidence and witness accounts that challenge conventional scientific or logical explanations, fostering a sense of intrigue and wonder about the paranormal.