UFO Newsclipping Service - 1983 03 - no 164

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO News Clipping Service, dated March 1983, presents a collection of articles and reports detailing various unexplained aerial phenomena and alleged extraterrestrial encounters. The cover headline highlights an "Another unexplained incident reported in Enfield," setting the tone for the issue's focus on mysterious events.

Key Articles and Reports

Enfield Incident

The lead article by Jon Elsen details an unexplained experience in Enfield, Connecticut. A local man reported hearing a vibrating buzz and feeling strong vibrations while walking his dog, followed by three intense flashes of white light and silence. This incident occurred shortly after another report on October 20th, where an area businessman described encountering an acre-sized UFO with a gray-white belly flecked with lights. Robert Bletchman, a Manchester lawyer and MUFON state director, suggests that UFO phenomena often recur in the same area over short periods and hopes to encourage others who may have witnessed something to come forward. Enfield Police Lt. Herbert Foy, who has handled UFO reports previously, noted that residents had reported UFOs on two consecutive nights earlier in the year.

Family Spots Mysterious Object in Sky

A report from the CAPITAL JOURNAL (Topeka, KS) on January 14, 1983, describes a rural Shawnee County family spotting a shining blue ball shooting arms of fire for five minutes. The unidentified object hovered in the sky, made electric-shorting sounds, and then blinked out as an airplane approached. The family noted that dogs in the area barked incessantly afterward. Officials from the Air Force Strategic Air Command and the North American Air Defense Command stated they had no aircraft or sightings that could account for the object. The Topeka National Weather Service office also ruled out weather phenomena.

Offbeat: The Light in the East

This column from the JOURNAL (Lincoln, NE) dated December 24, 1982, discusses extraordinary sightings in eastern Nebraska, including purplish-pink objects buzzing rural areas and a white light zig-zagging over several towns. Ray Boeche, Nebraska representative for MUFON, described these events as unique and unexplained. The column also mentions the effect on animals, with horses being spooked and a dog becoming quiet. The author draws a parallel to the shepherds observing a strange light in the sky 2,000 years ago.

UFO Lands On Campus

A report from NEW ORLEANS (AP) on February 11, 1983, details a chunk of slightly radioactive metal that came down in a ball of flame at the University of New Orleans. Campus police director Robert Knight described it as burnt metal, two or three feet long, that dug into the ground. Initial tests for radiation were conducted, and NASA was expected to send a crew for examination. Later, a NASA official stated the object was a hoax, man-made, and set afire at the scene.

Vaghi Still Has Space Under Tree for an Outer Space Alien Friend

This article from the NEWS-TIMES (Danbury, CT) on December 24, 1982, features Dante Vaghi, a wood craftsman who has been sending Christmas greetings to UFOs through newspaper ads for over a decade. Vaghi believes in alien life forms and hopes for a spaceship ride. He has reported seeing several UFOs since 1950 and has created spaceship models. He believes aliens visit Earth to scout technology and study humankind, and that governments keep UFO information secret.

Light Sparks Excitement

A NEWS-SENTINEL (Knoxville, TN) article from January 28, 1983, describes a huge ball of bright white light with a long tail of fire seen across East Tennessee. Witnesses reported loud explosions. Authorities suggested it might be a meteorite, but some witnesses disagreed, stating it was at a low altitude and made an ungodly sound. Some feared it was a falling Soviet nuclear satellite. The article also mentions damage to trees in a path where the object was seen, and a strange odor.

Just Talkin'

This column from the TIMES (Natchitoches, LA) on January 20, 1983, discusses strange and inexplicable sightings in a tract of woods northeast of town, beginning around dusk on December 30th. Residents reported seeing objects resembling airplanes or fiery balls. One witness described a "circle of lights with a smaller circle of lights within the bigger circle" hovering over treetops with a fan-like sound. Searchers found broken trees, but no definitive evidence. Authorities later suggested a stunt pilot might be responsible, but the newspaper staff maintains the riddle is not solved.

Scientific Study Bares UFO Reality

This article from NEWS WORLD (New York, NY) on January 29, 1983, discusses "Project Identification: The First Scientific Field Study of UFO Phenomena" by Harley D. Rutledge, Ph.D. The study reportedly gathered scientific data confirming the existence of intelligently operated UFOs. Rutledge, a physics professor, became interested after reports from Piedmont, Missouri. The study utilized various instruments, including telescopes, cameras, and light-sensing devices. The research involved observing UFO activity and collecting data, with Rutledge noting a 'cognizance' between observers and UFO intelligence, describing it as a 'game' played by UFOs to create general acceptance.

YOU AND YOUR PROBLEMS

A column in the TRIBUNE (San Diego, CA) on January 22, 1983, features a reader's question about a shared hallucination of a manta ray-shaped object hovering over Davey's Valley. The columnist assures the reader it was likely a UFO and that the area is safe to revisit. The column also criticizes Jimmy Carter for forgetting his campaign promises to reveal government UFO secrets.

Strange Green Lights Seen Along East Beach

A report from the NEWS (Galveston, TX) on January 30, 1983, describes six green lights seen "zipping" around East Beach after sunset. Witnesses reported the lights appeared suddenly, moved slowly, became stationary for about 30 minutes, and then zipped off rapidly. The objects were described as arranged in a definite planar pattern but not connected. Police and Coast Guard officials received calls but had no official sightings.

Fireball Hits Campus Lawn / Burning Object is Hoax

Two articles from the TIMES-PICAYUNE/STATES-ITEM (New Orleans, LA) on February 11, 1983, cover an incident at the University of New Orleans. Initially, a "glowing and smoking" fireball was reported to have burrowed into the campus lawn, with professors detecting faint radioactivity. It was described as burnt metal with protruding circuitry. However, a subsequent report from NASA stated the object was a hoax, man-made, and set afire. Tests for radioactivity were negative.

Young UFO Sleuth Claims Aliens Exist

This article from the JOURNAL (Turlock, CA) on January 29, 1983, profiles Franklin Youri, a 19-year-old who claims to be the youngest UFO sleuth in the world. Youri, who immigrated from Iran, presented a photograph of a white saucer-like craft he took in 1978. He believes aliens visit Earth to scout technology and study humankind. He is a member of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) and majors in engineering and astrophysics. He suggests that government agencies have extensive UFO documentation that is kept secret.

Was UFO Over Kitsap? Light Puzzles Spotters

A SUN (Bremerton, WA) article from February 4, 1983, reports on a light seen in the Kitsap sky by several residents. Descriptions varied, with some calling it a "fireball" and others noting its color as orange, bluish-green, or yellow-white. The object was seen moving and appeared to break into pieces. While some speculated it might be related to the Russian satellite, others found its behavior unusual for a meteor. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a scientific consultant for the Air Force, suggested that such sightings could be "swamp gas," a theory that was met with skepticism by local authorities and witnesses.

They Saw E.T., and Not at the Movies

This article from THE COLUMBIAN (Vancouver, WA) on January 30, 1983, discusses a gathering of people who have had unusual experiences, referring to themselves as "Aliens Anonymous." The group aims to provide support for those who feel isolated due to their experiences. Ron Chaput, a member of the UFO Contact Center in Seattle, shared his own suppressed memory of an encounter with aliens triggered by a movie. The article touches on the government's alleged ignorance of sincere UFO reports and the historical presence of unexplained sky events.

Was streaking object a UFO, or just a meteor event?

An article from the GLOBE (Auburn, WA) on February 6, 1983, reports on an object streaking across the Pacific Northwest sky. Dale Goudie of PSAPR suggested the objects were not meteors or man-made, while GRCC astronomy instructor Dennis Regan stated the behavior was consistent with a meteor. Various reports described the object as orange or bluish-green, with some thinking it crashed locally. Betty Carpenter described a "turquoise blue object" that floated and then emitted a "blue flash."

Couple Claims Contact With Aliens

This COURANT (Hartford, CT) article from February 16, 1983, profiles Bob and Betty Luca, who claim to have been abducted by aliens. Betty Ann Luca (formerly Andreasson) described a hypnotic session detailing an abduction in 1967. Bob Luca also recounted a similar experience from 1967. They met in Florida in 1977 and married in 1978. The couple has since toured to promote books about their experiences and speak about government UFO cover-ups. They believe aliens are peaceful and that their visits are part of God's plan.

Secret UFO Documents Released To Investigator

A TIMES (Maiden, NC) article from March 9, 1983, reports that over 200 documents on UFOs from the FBI, CIA, and USAF were released to George D. Fawcett, a MUFON investigator in North Carolina. These documents, retrieved through Freedom of Information Act lawsuits, demonstrate intense government interest in UFO sightings worldwide, including pilot reports, landings, and abductions.

UFO Group Pursues Interest In The Strange

This POST-DISPATCH (St. Louis, MO) article from February 14, 1983, introduces the UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis Inc., a group of individuals with a shared fascination for the strange and unexplained, including UFOs. The group's chairman, John Schroeder, a Lutheran clergyman, noted that members come from diverse backgrounds and often share personal experiences. The article highlights the group's interest in topics beyond UFOs, such as Bigfoot.

Financial Woes Hit Top UFO Investigator

The ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT (Little Rock, AR) on March 1, 1983, reports on the financial difficulties faced by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a renowned UFO investigator. Despite receiving numerous reports, Hynek's Center for UFO Studies struggles with funding, forcing him to close his office and disconnect his UFO hotline. The article mentions a report of aliens that reached the White House, which was then referred to Hynek.

The B-17 and the 'Foo Fighter'

This NEWS WORLD (New York, NY) article from February 17, 1983, by William D. Leet, recounts a World War II pilot's experience of encountering a "Foo Fighter" – a round amber light that followed his B-17 bomber. The pilot describes the object's unusual behavior and appearance, noting the lack of enemy resistance during the mission. He suggests that intelligence officers had knowledge of these phenomena but withheld information from combat personnel, hindering the understanding of UFOs.

Dexter Man's Passing Recalls UFO Sighting

An OBSERVER (Charlotte, NC) article from February 28, 1983, mentions the death of Frank E. Mannor, recalling a series of UFO sightings on his farm in Dexter Township, Michigan, 17 years prior. Witnesses reported a bright, shining object landing on the farm, emitting a glow, and then disappearing and reappearing. Mannor and his son reported hearing a whistling sound before the object flew off. Local authorities and Dr. J. Allen Hynek investigated, with Hynek suggesting "swamp gas" as a possible explanation, a theory that Mannor and others found unconvincing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue include the persistence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the alleged secrecy of governments regarding UFO information, and the personal impact of these experiences on individuals. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and presenting these accounts, often with a degree of skepticism but also acknowledging the sincerity of many witnesses and the ongoing scientific and investigative efforts. The articles collectively suggest that UFOs are a complex and persistent phenomenon that warrants continued attention and research.

This issue of FOREIGN NEWS, dated December 3, 1982, is a compilation of reports on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena from various international sources. The magazine features a mix of eyewitness accounts, investigations by UFO research groups, and some scientific and governmental perspectives.

Key Articles and Reports

Westport UFO Sighting (New Zealand)

The cover story details a widely witnessed UFO sighting in Westport, New Zealand, on the night of December 7, 1982. A possum trapper, a travelling salesman, a farmer's wife, and a Social Credit candidate were among the numerous people who reported seeing a bright, fast-moving object. Descriptions varied, but many noted its speed and the direction it traveled towards Mt. Rochfort. Wellington Airport radar reported no contacts, but did note a bright white light over Upper Hutt two hours later.

UFO Chasers in Search of a Close Encounter (Canada)

This article follows Joe Muskat and Harry Tokarz, co-founders of the Canadian UFO Research Network, as they investigate a reported UFO incident in a cornfield near Oakville. The incident, which allegedly occurred five years prior, involved strange orange spheres hovering around a dead oak tree. The article highlights the Network's dedication, their 65 members worldwide, and their average of three calls a week regarding unexplained aerial phenomena. They have also investigated a case involving a man claiming abduction by four-foot-tall aliens on the QEW, and a report of a metallic fluttering object triggering alarms in Woodbridge.

Hundreds Spot Mystery Lights Over City (Wales)

On January 20, 1983, hundreds of sky-watchers in Swansea, Wales, reported seeing strange illuminated shapes and flashing lights. Witnesses described spheres of flashing lights and a large red glow. Coastguards suggested the lights might be meteorites but discounted any connection to satellite re-entry. The report notes that while the sky was clear, the phenomena were seen over a wide area.

Was It Really a UFO? (New Zealand)

This personal account from Rachel Blackie, aged 10, describes an experience on a winter evening where she and a friend saw a falling star, followed by a greenish mist and a flashing multi-coloured object. The mist cleared to reveal a large spaceship towering above them before it disappeared. The author questions whether it was imagination or something from outer space.

Choosy Aliens Give US Big Miss (Australia)

This article reports a significant decline in UFO sightings in Queensland, Australia, in 1982, with only two worthy of investigation compared to hundreds in previous decades. Colin Phillips, President of UFO Research (Qld), attributes this to aliens changing their attitude towards Earth, suggesting they might now consider the planet a 'game reserve'. The group's monthly meetings have been axed due to the scarcity of reports.

Family Tells of Close Encounter (Australia)

Two Northam families in Western Australia reported seeing the same large, unexplainable flying object of brilliant light moving at treetop height with no sound. The sightings occurred approximately one year apart, about 47km from Perth. The RAAF confirmed a detailed report was made and is being investigated by an 'unusual aerial sightings officer'. The object was described as a brilliant star that descended and moved directly above the highway.

Lights on Wednesday (Wales)

A report from Port Talbot, Wales, describes seeing three sets of bright lights in a triangular formation travelling slowly in an easterly direction on January 19, 1983. The lights flashed on and off at regular intervals, and there was an absence of noise. A shooting star was observed passing immediately behind the lights.

France Gives Up On UFOs (France)

The French government decided to close its unique research establishment set up six years prior to investigate UFOs, citing skepticism about extraterrestrial life. The closure has met with opposition from some scientists.

UFOs May Be Real, Unusual Lights Seen by Area Residents (Canada)

Reports from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, describe strange lights seen on Monday evening, January 10, 1983. Witnesses described a bright green light with sparks coming from its tail, travelling from north to south. Inquiries to the Canadian Air Force and NORAD yielded no radar reports of unusual activity.

Blue UFO 'Lands' in South Devon Field (England)

Two Torquay teenagers reported seeing a large, blue light heading towards the ground, described as rocket-shaped with a vapour trail. They believed it landed in a field. The sighting was later confirmed by a member of the Exeter UFO Research Group who experienced electrical disturbances with their car at the same time.

Mystery of the Strange Debris From Sky (Australia)

Farmer Irwel Evans discovered hundreds of pieces of honeycombed metal foil and twisted alloy plates strewn over his fields near Aberystwyth. Police and RAF investigated, but no explanation was found. The debris was light but had severed branches off trees, suggesting it fell with force.

Aliens Drop In Claims NASA Expert (Australia)

A top NASA scientist, John Schuessler, claimed that intelligent extraterrestrial life has visited Earth and that witnesses have radiation injuries to prove it. He stated that UFOs are real and solid, and he has verified over 300 cases of alleged injuries.

UFO Sighting? (England)

Reports of mysterious lights over Salway Ash, near Bridport, were made by a schoolboy who saw a circle of five bright lights hovering with no noise. The lights slowly went out one by one.

Chinese See UFO (China)

Eight people reportedly spotted an unidentified flying object (UFO) over Harbin, China, described as a large oval orange balloon that paused before heading south.

UFOs May Be Real, Superpowers in UFO Cover-up Conspiracy - Earl (Australia)

The Earl of Clancarty claims that real extraterrestrials have landed on Earth and that the US, Russia, and Britain know about it but are keeping it secret. He suggests that movies like 'E.T.' and 'Close Encounters' are part of an education program to prepare the public for contact.

Mexican Occultists Build UFO Airport (Mexico)

Antonio Vazquez, leader of Mexico's witches, announced that Latin America's first UFO airport was being built in Mexico for the expected arrival of space visitors this year.

Marcia and the Little Green Men (England)

Lady Falkender believes in flying saucers and a government cover-up, according to an article discussing her foreword to a book on George Adamski. Lord Clancarty is quoted as saying that superpowers have discovered how to tap energy from UFOs, and a cover-up is in place to prevent panic.

Quick-Draw Kids Track a UFO (England)

An amazing UFO sighting by over 200 people along the South Wales coastline is being investigated. Witnesses included policemen, schoolchildren, and a football team. The object was described as a massive, triangular-shaped craft with a main cluster of lights at the front and a triangular group of lights following.

Bulbs Blew On UFO Night (England)

Two Torquay teenagers' report of seeing an unidentified flying object was corroborated by a UFO Research Group member who experienced electrical disturbances, including blown bulbs and static on his car radio, at the same time.

Great UFO Riddle (Italy)

UFO enthusiasts in Italy are concerned about the complete lack of reported UFO sightings for over a year, a significant drop from previous years.

UFO Sightings More Spaced Out Despite ET (Canada)

John Musgrave of the Edmonton UFO Society states that UFO reports are down compared to five or ten years ago, despite the popularity of films like 'E.T.'. He suggests possibilities like mirages, ball lightning, or psychological phenomena, but does not rule out space visitors.

Sonic Boom Is Just Mother Nature (USA)

Reports of a mysterious booming noise and a white light in the sky in Beaver, Pennsylvania, were attributed to a thunderstorm, not an explosion, earthquake, or UFO.

Coral Castle Work Stumps Engineers (USA)

The construction of Coral Castle by Edward Leedskalnin, a Latvian immigrant, remains a mystery to engineers due to his solitary work and the massive scale of the coral structures he quarried and moved.

My Lochness Me! (England)

The Loch Ness Monster Exhibition is touring Britain, showcasing evidence including sonar sightings, videos, and photographs. Top naturalist Adrian J. Shine is involved, aiming to bring a more academic approach to the subject.

Mystery Surrounds Disappearance of 2 Ships (USA)

Investigators are baffled by the loss of two modern ships in the Bering Sea, with no explanation found for their disappearance, leading to comparisons with the Bermuda Triangle.

Tremors Shake Miss. Gulf Coast (USA)

Three mysterious tremors rocked the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with experts suggesting they were atmospheric in origin rather than earthquakes. Four F-4 fighters were spotted on radar around the time of the tremors.

Sonar Sighting May Be Loch Ness Monster (Scotland)

Scientists searching for the Loch Ness Monster reported sonar contacts consistent with the presence of large animals, but have no definitive proof it was 'Nessie'.

Word on Lake Monster Spreads (USA)

Joseph W. Zarzynski is publishing a newsletter, 'Champ Channels', to discuss the reputed Lake Champlain monster, 'Champ', and has also researched the Loch Ness Monster.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of UFO sightings across the globe, the persistent question of their origin (extraterrestrial vs. natural phenomena), and the recurring suspicion of government cover-ups. There's a clear interest in documenting these events, with various research groups and individuals actively collecting data and interviewing witnesses. The tone is generally open to the possibility of UFOs being real, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for rigorous investigation. The magazine presents a wide array of reports, from detailed eyewitness accounts to more personal reflections, suggesting a broad appeal to those interested in the unexplained.