UFO Newsclipping Service - 1980 09 - no 134

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated September 1980, number 134, focuses on a variety of UFO sightings, alleged government cover-ups, and the experiences of UFO contactees. The publication compiles reports from different newspapers across the United States, highlighting a persistent interest in the phenomenon.

Roswell Legend Revived

The lead story, originating from the ROCKY MOUNTAIN NEWS (June 16, 1980), revisits the legendary 1947 UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico. Seth Hill, a writer-producer for the television series "In Search Of," was in the area filming an episode titled "The UFO Cover-up." Hill investigated claims that the Air Force systematically concealed evidence of UFOs and alien visitors. He examined the 1947 incident and another in Arizona, though he declined to discuss the latter. Hill's theory suggests many sightings are actually secret U.S. government test vehicles, not alien visitors. He noted the similarity in descriptions of UFOs, often reported as disc-shaped objects with specific modes of travel, and their frequent appearance in areas where atomic bomb tests were conducted in the 1940s. The article also features retired Air Force Maj. Jesse Marcel, who contradicted official accounts of the Roswell wreckage, stating more debris was found than reported and that it was not merely a weather balloon or radar target. Marcel recalled collecting metal and other unusual materials, which he believed were sent to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base but were rerouted to Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth by Brig. Gen. Roger Ramey.

Witness Accounts from Across the US

Several other reports detail UFO sightings from various locations:

• Washington, Iowa (PRESS CITIZEN, Aug. 4, 1980): Cindy Smith and Helen Hershley, along with five others, reported seeing a "huge and bright" object that was mostly orange, with blue and red hues, that faded in and out and had rays emanating from it. The object appeared in the northeast corner of the sky.
• Valdosta, GA (DAILY TIMES, July 8, 1980): A Moody Air Force Base spokesman suggested that strange lights reported might be from airplanes based there. However, witness Davy Ellis claimed the lights originated from a large, unidentified flying object that hovered and moved aimlessly for about an hour, accompanied by a whirring noise. A small light reportedly broke from the larger object and shot upward, with a plane from Moody allegedly following.
• Clinch County, GA (DAILY TIMES, July 22, 1980): Four boys reported seeing four low-flying objects with orange and red lights that joined to form a large, brilliantly-lit craft. They heard a whirring noise and observed the objects flying in formation.
• South Milwaukee, WI (VOICE JOURNAL, Aug. 7, 1980): 6-year-old Tiffany Gardish reported sighting an unidentified flying object described as round. Her mother, Shirley Gardish, took her seriously after the child drew detailed pictures.
• Farmington Hills, MI (TIMES, July 24, 1980): Three separate sightings of well-defined oblong objects with oscillating tubular lighting were reported on July 21, occurring during a lightning storm. Police forwarded information to a UFO investigation center.
• Hillsboro, N.H. (GLOBE, Aug. 11, 1980): Over the past four years, more than 60 sightings of unidentified flying objects have been reported in the area. Billy Gould and Laurie Barr described a large, capsule-shaped object that glowed yellowish-bluish, hovered over their truck, and emitted a humming noise before accelerating away rapidly. Robert Giglio, a photographer, has been documenting these sightings.
• San Bernardino, CA (THE SUN, Aug. 7, 1980): A resident reported releasing a child's silver balloon, which was described by some as a UFO. However, Norton Air Force Base officials discounted the balloon theory, citing the object's speed. Other residents also reported seeing objects, with one witness describing a green trash can liner filled with helium.
• Eugene, OR (WILLAMETTE VALLEY OBSERVER, Aug. 21, 1980): Three campers reported seeing a bright light with a whirring and whispering sound hovering near trees at 4 a.m. The object moved erratically before disappearing with daylight. The Center for UFO Studies suggested it might have been Venus.
• Fairfield, Ohio (ENQUIRER, Aug. 29, 1980): Charles Wilhelm presented two unpublished pictures he claims show the remains of an alien spaceman who crashed in Mexico in 1948. He alleges government cover-ups of alien visits and has documented thousands of pages of evidence.
• Loma Rica, CA (APPEAL-DEMOCRAT, Aug. 9, 1980): Jack and Joyce Budro, along with their daughters, reported seeing UFOs. The objects were described as egg-shaped, roundish, with metallic sheens, and emitting lights. They were observed at about 1,000 feet up and moved at high speeds.
• Anderson, SC (HERALD-JOURNAL, Sept. 14, 1980 & DAILY MAIL, Sept. 11 & 16, 1980): Jerry McAlister reported seeing a "something strange" object, described as round, about 70 feet long and two stories high, with bright lights and square windows. Investigators suggested mild radiation burns and conjunctivitis for witnesses. The Scientific Bureau of Investigation and MUFON investigated the case.
• Penrith-St Marys-Mt Druitt area, Australia (STAR, July 23, 1980): A search is underway for witnesses to a UFO sighting from almost ten years ago, described as an elongated egg-shaped object with yellow windows.
• Shropshire, England (STAR, Aug. 23, 1980): Housewife Lillian Middleton reported being followed by a "flying white light" at speeds up to 70 mph. Police are treating the claim seriously.
• Westbury, England (EVENING POST, Aug. 16, 1980): Mysterious circles discovered in fields near Westbury have revived UFO talk, with experts suggesting a connection to the "Warminster Thing."
• Brisbane, Australia (SUN, Aug. 9, 1980): TAA reported that one of its crews saw a UFO near Cairns, described as a "shiny, silver object" much higher than their aircraft.

UFO Symposiums and Expert Opinions

The issue also covers discussions and symposiums on UFOs:

• Oakland, CA (UNION, Sept. 4, 1980): A two-day UFO symposium sponsored by the Trantor Foundation featured speakers like Wendelle C. Stevens, a UFO investigator, and Jim Dilettoso, who analyzed photos of alleged alien craft. Participants paid to view photos and listen to accounts of alien contacts.
• Washington, DC (POST, Sept. 8, 1980): A Smithsonian symposium on UFOs featured J. Allen Hynek, Bruce Marcahhee, and Allan Hendry debating with skeptics like Philip Klass and Robert Scheaffer. The discussion covered unexplained cases, government secrecy, and the scientific investigation of UFO claims.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent nature of UFO sightings, the alleged efforts by governments to conceal information, and the profound psychological impact of encounters on witnesses. The editorial stance, as reflected in the compilation of these diverse reports, is one of serious consideration for the UFO phenomenon, presenting witness testimonies and investigative efforts without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the skepticism and the need for credible evidence. The publication seems to lean towards the belief that there is indeed something significant occurring, even if the exact nature of UFOs remains elusive.

Key Facts Synopsis

This issue highlights the enduring legend of the Roswell UFO incident, with new investigations into alleged cover-ups. Numerous witness accounts from across the United States detail sightings of various unidentified flying objects, often described with specific characteristics like shape, speed, and sound. The publication also features discussions from UFO investigators and symposiums, where theories range from secret government technology to extraterrestrial visitation. Some reports touch upon the psychological effects on witnesses and the challenges of obtaining official confirmation or investigation from authorities. The overall impression is that UFO phenomena continue to be a subject of public fascination and ongoing inquiry.

Notable Quote

"My theory is that these are not extraterrestrials. I can't believe anything from outer space would want to come down to this area. There are no mineral deposits, no military bases, nothing. They can hover over more interesting areas."

Speaker: Robert Giglio

FAQ

• Question: What is the 'UFO Cover-up' theory? Answer: The 'UFO Cover-up' theory investigates charges that the U.S. Air Force has systematically covered up evidence of UFOs and alien visitors.
• Question: What are the common characteristics of UFO sightings reported? Answer: Reported UFOs are often described as disc-shaped, with one or two modes of travel: very fast horizontally or a rocking motion. They are also frequently described as making humming or whirring noises.
• Question: Are there any confirmed government investigations into UFOs? Answer: The Air Force no longer investigates reports of unidentified flying objects, and officials at non-government UFO research centers are primarily interested in actual contact with persons from other worlds.
• Question: What are the psychological effects on UFO contactees? Answer: Contactees often experience a sense of awe and humility, an expansion of consciousness, and an urge to share their experiences. Some may also experience mental health issues or substance abuse problems.

Summary

This September 1980 issue of U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE presents a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, compiling reports from various sources. The lead story revisits the Roswell UFO incident, exploring 'cover-up' theories and featuring testimony from former military personnel. The magazine then details numerous witness accounts from across the United States, describing sightings of disc-shaped objects, strange lights, and unexplained aerial phenomena, often accompanied by unusual sounds. These reports highlight the diverse nature of sightings, from brief glimpses to prolonged observations. The issue also delves into the investigative efforts of UFO researchers and organizations, touching upon the scientific analysis of photographic evidence and the psychological profiles of alleged 'contactees.' Discussions at symposiums reveal a spectrum of opinions, from staunch believers to cautious skeptics, with a recurring theme of official reluctance to acknowledge or investigate such events. The overall narrative underscores the persistent public interest in UFOs and the ongoing debate surrounding their origin and nature, with many witnesses feeling a sense of awe and a desire to share their extraordinary experiences despite potential ridicule.

This issue of "THE GREAT UFO MYSTERY," dated August 24, 1980, focuses on a wide array of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, mysterious marks, and alleged encounters with cryptids. The cover story, "Did aliens land in north?", highlights a farmer's discovery of peculiar circular marks in his barley paddock, which a local UFO research group speculates were left by a malfunctioning UFO that landed for repairs. The article delves into the farmer's skepticism turning into belief after finding the marks, and the weight required to make such depressions.

Australian Sightings and Investigations

The issue features multiple articles from Australia. One details the discovery of mystery marks near Ogilvie, Western Australia, on Eric Parker's farm. George Hume, a spokesman for a Perth UFO research group, theorizes a UFO landed for repairs. Laboratory tests on sand samples indicated significant pressure, suggesting a heavy object. The marks are described as four circular depressions, 1.3m apart, 10cm deep. A neighbor reported seeing a light rising from the vicinity on the night of June 1. Another article discusses the 'great UFO mystery' and the possibility of alien landings, referencing two articles from a previous UFONS issue. It also touches upon the discovery of strange marks in Sawyer's Valley.

International UFO Reports

Beyond Australia, the magazine covers UFO sightings from around the globe:

• South Africa: A strange, fast-moving orange light was sighted over Pietermaritzburg on two occasions. Witnesses described it as 'like fire' and moving at 'fantastic speed.' The vice-chairman of Contact International, Walter Papés, noted a general dearth of sightings prior to these events.
• Canada: In Niagara-on-the-Lake, UFOs were observed over Lake Ontario. UFO fan Malcolm Williams and sky-watcher Bill Nelson documented these sightings, noting the lights 'blink right out' when conventional aircraft pass. Nelson theorizes an underwater base in Lake Ontario.
• Argentina: A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO reports from Argentina. Philosopher Jorge L. García Venturini discusses the "stupid question" of believing in UFOs, asserting their existence and the profound implications of potential extraterrestrial contact. Several specific incidents are detailed:
• On June 14, 1980, multiple sightings occurred across Argentina, including Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata, Santa Fe, and Córdoba. A witness in El Carrizal reported a UFO with a 'dark nucleus and gaseous body.'
• Near Tigre, a witness described seeing two 'moons,' one of which was a luminous, bluish ring-like object.
• In Rio Ceballos, a man claimed to have been weakened, deafened by humming, and blinded by a reddish light from a hovering object, suffering burns. Investigations were initiated, and neighbors also reported seeing similar phenomena.
• In Mar del Plata, a truck driver and his wife reported seeing an orange-glowing UFO circle their car.
• Spain: A UFO was reported to have flown across Spanish territory on July 25, 1980, eventually disappearing near León. Witnesses described it as round, moving at high speed, and emitting orange and yellow flashes.
• Italy: Three bright spheres, described as forming a 'perfect equilateral triangle,' were observed over Bormio on March 9, 1980, by tourists.
• Ecuador: A luminous, unidentified object was spotted moving slowly over Guayaquil on August 21, 1980.
• Uruguay: The investigation of UFO sightings is being taken seriously, with a special commission from the Air Force established. Reports include an incident in Cebollati where a man claimed to be attacked and burned by two 'very beautiful green' beings.

Cryptid Sightings

The issue also includes reports on alleged encounters with cryptids:

• Bigfoot/Sasquatch: Two men, Dave Wilhelm and Ben Lawson, reported an encounter with a creature estimated to be 12 feet tall off Granite Creek Road, Scotts Valley, California, on June 9, 1980. They described loud footsteps, heavy breathing, and a 'dirty, heavy smell.' Rhoda Wolters and her son Kerry reported seeing a 'Bigfoot' feeding in an orchard near their Scotts Valley home in 1971-1972, noting large, three-toed footprints.
• Sea Serpent: A legend of a 'Kingstie,' a giant sea serpent described as 40 feet long with a goat-like head, orchid-colored whiskers, tusks, horns, and hands, was reported in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, dating back to 1931. Two doctors claimed to have seen it.
• Loch Ness Monster/Lake Monsters: An article discusses the ongoing search for the Loch Ness Monster and mentions 'Kempenfelt Kelly,' the mascot for a festival in Barrie, Canada, described as a 'wimp' compared to a 'big monster' reportedly seen by Metro fishermen on Cook's Bay. The article also references the possibility of plesiosaurs surviving in lakes.

Other Phenomena

• Cow Mutilation: Reports from Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, detail cattle mutilations where surgical precision was used to remove organs, teeth, and other parts, with no predators or blood found. Similar incidents have occurred in other locations.
• Lunar Glow: An article discusses transient lunar phenomena (TLPs), such as glows and hazes observed in moon craters like Aristarchus. Scientists suggest these are likely caused by escaping gases stirred up by tidal forces, creating 'moon smoke' or electrical discharges.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery surrounding UFOs and cryptid sightings, the challenges in obtaining conclusive proof, and the varying reactions from skepticism to firm belief among witnesses and authorities. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and expert opinions without definitively dismissing any phenomenon. There's an emphasis on the scientific investigation of these events, from analyzing soil samples to monitoring lunar activity, while also acknowledging the anecdotal and testimonial evidence. The issue highlights how these unexplained occurrences can challenge human understanding of the world and our place in the cosmos, prompting both fear and fascination. The philosophical perspective presented by Dr. Escardó and Jorge L. García Venturini underscores the importance of approaching these phenomena with an open, integrating, and fraternal spirit, rather than with fear or dismissal, especially concerning future generations.