Long Island UFO Update - Vol 01 No 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Long Island UFO Reporter, dated January 1989, is Volume 1, Issue 1, published by L.I.U.F.O.N. (Long Island UFO Network). It features a cover illustration of a UFO hovering over Long Island and a price of $2.00. The magazine focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena on Long Island.

Hot Spots on the Island

This section details several recent UFO sightings reported on Long Island:

Mastic Beach On November 30, 1988, a man in Mastic Beach witnessed an oval craft, approximately 60-80 feet in diameter, dip at a 45-degree angle, hover, and flash white lights. Later, he saw an immense object, the size of a football field, with a gondola and red lights. Investigations by LIUFON revealed magnetic anomalies and radiation readings far above normal in the area.

Smith Point Beach On August 27, 1988, over one hundred witnesses at Smith Point Beach observed a large cigar-shaped object, enclosed in a transparent bubble, for about an hour. The object was described as three times the size of a 747 airliner, and a light aircraft appeared as a mere speck in comparison. Lifeguards also witnessed the event.

Rockaway, Queens On September 3 and 4, 1988, residents of Rockaway Beach reported seeing three objects: an oval one that hovered, a mobile probe of light emanating from it, and a cigar-shaped object. These appeared as white lights over the ocean. The oval object reportedly descended and hovered over Rockaway Beach Boulevard before returning to the ocean. The local newspaper 'The Wave' covered the story, and LIUFON investigator Bill Knell was informed by staff reporters.

Chairman's Corner: Operation Skywatch

This press release, issued to the media, announces the launch of 'Operation Skywatch' by the Long Island U.F.O. Network Inc. starting in December 1988. The program aims to alert the public to unknown objects in the night sky and encourages the public to report sightings to their hotline. The organization, an eight-month-old non-profit research corporation, has conducted 144 investigations and identified emerging patterns of UFO activity on Long Island. They have concluded that:

1. Long Island has historically been a major center of UFO activity, with specific areas in Suffolk (Hamptons, Center Moriches, etc.) and Nassau County (Jones Beach, Port Washington, etc.) noted. Queens also shows reported activity.
2. Extremely large UFOs have been visiting Long Island skies at regular intervals for at least five years, frequently overflying populated and industrial areas, centers of scientific research, power plants, and aerospace facilities, suggesting careful reconnaissance.
3. UFO activity appears to be centering over highway networks, with UFOs seemingly using highways like the Long Island Expressway and Sunrise Highway as navigational aids.
4. There is a pattern of military activity, including helicopter overflights, occurring before and after UFO sightings, reminiscent of similar occurrences in the 1960s.
5. The U.S. government has historically intimidated witnesses of UFO sightings on Long Island, and this policy appears to be recurring.
6. The FAA has shown no cooperation in confirming radar tracks of UFOs, neither confirming nor denying.
7. There is growing testimony of UFO abductions occurring over the last two years, some centered around young children.
8. Winter months (November to April) are prime observation times, typically between 7 PM and midnight on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Disc-shaped objects over 1,000 feet are common, with activity peaking a week before and after Christmas.

The Long Island U.F.O. Network is appealing to police, fire departments, and ambulance corps to report UFO activity to their hotline. They also plan to hold a major UFO conference in the spring.

On the Difficulties of Investigating UFO Abductions

By Jean Mundy, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist and MUFON Consultant.

Dr. Mundy asserts that human beings are being abducted by aliens, citing the Betty and Barney Hill case as an example, which was corroborated by psychiatrist Dr. Paul Simon and author John Fuller. She notes a significant increase in abduction cases, referencing a 1988 television show where 4,500 out of 75,000 callers reported alien abductions. Mundy explains that public disbelief stems from psychological issues: the desire to believe humans are the universe's darlings and the fear of losing freedom and free will. She argues that investigating UFO phenomena is difficult but necessary.

Mundy further elaborates on the challenges, stating that the technology of advanced civilizations appears miraculous. UFO phenomena are borderline paranormal, requiring researchers to accept beings that can become invisible, change shape, and disappear/reappear instantly. She notes that for years, radar systems were not programmed to detect non-linear flight paths or speeds exceeding those of conventional aircraft. Mundy emphasizes the importance of physical measurements in abduction investigations, such as the potential landing site of a 30-foot craft, and urges investigators not to dismiss witness testimony simply because it seems incredible.

The Mount Misery Story

By Bill Knell.

This article details the mysterious history of Mount Misery on Long Island, described as Long Island's best-kept secret. It mentions John Keel's reference to it in 'The Mothman Prophecies' but suggests there is much more to the story. The author conducted a study in 1978-1979 and presents documented facts.

Mount Misery is located west of the Long Island Expressway, near exit 39. Historically, it may have been an Indian mound, the site of a revolutionary war battle, and contained an insane asylum in the late 1700s or early 1800s. This asylum was privately run and housed deformed, mentally handicapped, and unwanted individuals, leading to reports of mistreated patients and screams heard in nearby neighborhoods. After twenty years, the asylum was closed, and the road leading to it became Mount Misery Road.

Later, a schoolhouse was built, and in 1838, farmers reported strange happenings, including disappearing livestock and dogs. These events ceased, but in the mid-1800s, reports of strange lights, creatures, and disappearances continued, often attributed to the asylum's haunting.

A maniac, possibly an escaped mental patient, reportedly terrorized the area, murdering at least eight people with an axe, accompanied by weird lights and sounds from the Mount. The maniac was never captured.

In the 1920s, a veterans' hospital was built on the Mount, but it was remote and closed down in 1942. For five years after its closure, residents reported strange happenings, including the surgical floor being illuminated at night and military trucks on backroads. During World War II, rumors of the 'Haunted Hospital' and strange lights circulated.

During WWII, 'military exercises' took place on Mount Misery, believed to be for training paratroopers and special forces due to its isolated, mountainous terrain. A top-secret military base is thought to have been located there, possibly within the hospital grounds. Soldiers without insignia were reportedly seen near the hospital.

New rumors of military 'planes' landing on the Mount surfaced during the war, despite the lack of suitable landing space. These landings coincided with military exercises. Helicopters were also frequently seen.

The hospital was torn down, but the 'military exercises,' 'planes,' and mystery helicopters contributed to the Mount's reputation. In the late 1950s and mid-1960s, a massive UFO flap occurred, with Mount Misery at its hub. Sightings included abductions, CEI-IV experiences, animal mutilations, and the 'Mount Misery Monster.' During this time, black propeller-powered planes with no markings and low-flying black helicopters were reported. 'Men In Black' (MIB) stories also emerged, with people reporting visits from 'government men.' The media eventually stopped covering the phenomenon at Mount Misery.

Bill Knell invites anyone with information about Mount Misery to write to him at the Long Island UFO Network.

The Commack Sighting

Case No. 002-88 from the archives of the Long Island U.F.O. Network, Inc.

This case was investigated by Mr. Ford and Mr. Stout in June 1988, following a report to the LIUFON hotline. The witnesses, who wished to remain anonymous, reported the sighting in February 1988.

On a cold, clear night in Commack, a residential area, the wife noticed her vanity mirror shaking violently. Investigating, she saw an extremely large, dark object rising from behind the house across the street, filling the sky. It was surrounded by a ring of circular red lights and made a roaring sound. The object moved south at tree-top level, lifting slightly to avoid hitting a neighbor's roof. Both witnesses described a dark object of immense size, with a texture that blended with the night sky, appearing as an inky blackness. They believed the object may have landed in the adjacent school yard.

A radiological survey of the school yard yielded no results. Contact with the FAA provided their usual uncooperativeness. No other witnesses were found after canvassing the neighborhood. LIUFON concluded that the object was not a helicopter or conventional aircraft and listed it as a true unknown.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the prevalence and significance of UFO phenomena on Long Island, presenting it as a major hub for sightings and activity. The Long Island UFO Network (LIUFON) is positioned as a diligent investigative body, actively collecting reports, conducting research, and informing the public. There is a recurring theme of government secrecy and potential military involvement in UFO-related events, with the FAA and unspecified government entities portrayed as uncooperative or actively involved in disinformation. The magazine also highlights the personal and psychological challenges faced by UFO witnesses, particularly in cases of abduction, and the difficulties inherent in investigating such phenomena. The editorial stance is one of advocacy for UFO research and a belief in the reality of these events, encouraging public participation and awareness through initiatives like 'Operation Skywatch' and upcoming conferences. The tone is serious and investigative, aiming to document and understand the UFO phenomenon on Long Island.

Title: THE UFO PHENOMENON
Issue: PART 1
Date: 1989
Publisher: LONG ISLAND UFO NETWORK, INC.

This issue delves into the multifaceted study of the UFO phenomenon, positing that it has existed since ancient times. It aims to provide readers with a foundation for their own research by presenting a list of popular theories regarding the nature and origin of UFOs.

Popular UFO Theories

The publication outlines five prominent theories concerning UFOs:

1. The Extraterrestrial Theory: This theory suggests UFOs originate from other planets. A recommended book for further research is John F. Fuller's "The Interrupted Journey" (1966).
2. The Ulterraterrestrial/Parallel Universe Theory: This perspective proposes that UFOs come from dimensions or universes parallel to our own. Key references include Jacques Vallee's "Dimensions" (1988) and John A. Keel's "U.F.O.'s: Operation Trojan Horse" (1970).
3. The Religion Theory: This theory links UFO phenomena to religious or spiritual interpretations. Clifford Wilson's "The Alien Agenda" (1988) is suggested for exploration.
4. The Hollow Earth Theory: This theory posits that UFOs originate from a civilization within the Earth. Raymond Bernard's "The Hollow Earth" (1968) is cited.
5. The Natural Atmospheric Phenomenon Theory: This theory attributes UFO sightings to unusual atmospheric or natural phenomena. Donald H. Menzel and Mrs. Lyle Boyd's "The World of Flying Saucers" (1963) is recommended.

The publication strongly encourages readers to research each theory with an open mind and to consider the evidence presented.

Bibliography

Page 11 provides an extensive bibliography of UFO-related literature, featuring works by numerous authors and covering a wide range of topics within the field. Notable entries include:

• Charles Berlitz & William Moore's "The Roswell Incident" (1980)
• Charles Fort's "Book of the Damned" (1941)
• Raymond E. Fowler's "UFO's: Interplanetary Visitors" (1974) and "The Adreasson Affair" (1979)
• John G. Fuller's "The Interrupted Journey" (1966)
• Budd Hopkins' "Missing Time" (1988) and "Intruders" (1988)
• J. Allen Hynek's "The UFO Experience; A Scientific Inquiry" (1974), and "The Edge of Reality" (1975) with Jacques Vallee, and "Night Siege" (1987) with Philip J. Imbrogno & Bob Pratt.
• David M. Jacobs' "The UFO Controversy in America" (1975)
• Morris K. Jessup's "The Case for the U.F.O." (1955)
• John A. Keel's "U.F.O.'s; Operation Trojan Horse" (1970)
• Coral E. Lorensen's "The Startling Evidence of the Invasion from Outer Space" (1966)
• Edward J. Ruppelt's "The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects" (1956)
• Ronald D. Story's "The Encyclopedia of U.F.O.'s" (1980)
• Leonard H. Stringfield's "Situation Red, The UFO Siege" (1977)
• Jacques Vallee's "Dimensions" (1988), "Messengers of Deception" (1979), "Passport to Magonia" (1974), and "Anatomy of a Phenomenon; UFO's in Space" (1974)
• Clifford Wilson's "The Alien Agenda" (1988) and "UFO's and Their Mission Impossible" (1975)

The bibliography also notes specific hardcover-only entries.

UFO Conference Announcement

The issue announces the first annual UFO conference, sponsored by the Long Island UFO Network (LIUFON). The conference's theme is "UFO's on Long Island."

• Date: April 2, 1989
• Time: 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Location: Artist Lake Condominium complex Recreation Hall.
• Admission: $20.00 for LIUFON members, $25.00 for non-members.

Featured Speakers:

• Joel Martin: Noted talk show host on Viacom's TV6, well-versed on UFOs on Long Island.
• Dick Ruhl: UFO researcher with national acclaim and a former prominent member of APRO.
• Antonio Huneas: Will provide an update on current UFO encounters in South America.

Tickets are available by advance registration only. Checks should be sent to LIUFON, attn: Ticket Sales, P.O. Box 232, Center Moriches, N.Y., 11934, including the registrant's name and phone number. Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Contact information for ticket sales is provided: 516-732-3449 (days) and 516-924-5210 (evenings).

A map is included showing the location of the Artist Lake Condominiums relative to local roads and landmarks.

Editorial Staff and Copyright

The editorial staff includes Professors George McLain and Linda Geiger as editors, Catherine Ford, Martha Richardson, and Linda Geiger as typists, and Bill Knell, John Ford, Rick Loomer, and Dr. Jean Mundy for articles.

The publication is copyrighted 1989 by LONG ISLAND UFO NETWORK, INC. Copying of articles is strictly prohibited without permission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of diverse UFO theories and the promotion of UFO research and community engagement through conferences. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open-minded investigation into the UFO phenomenon, providing resources (books, bibliographies) and fostering a community for discussion and information sharing.