UFO Newsclipping Service - 1984 07 - no 180

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated July 1984, presents a collection of articles and reports related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The publication, edited by Lucius Farish and Rod B. Dyke, covers a range of sightings, investigations, and theories surrounding the UFO phenomenon.

Key Articles and Reports

"Bright lights in sky spark UFO reports" by Maxine L. Lynch (Plain Dealer, May 22, 1984)

This article details numerous reports from people in Ohio, Kentucky, and Illinois who witnessed a strange stream of bright lights in the sky on a Sunday night. Astronomers at Case Western Reserve University suggested the phenomenon might have been a 'boloid,' a bright meteor that breaks into fragments, but some witnesses were convinced it was a UFO. Fred Avalli and Nicholas P. Orlando described seeing about 15 lights flying in formation, with streaks shooting from them like firecrackers, appearing at an altitude of 3,000 to 4,000 feet. Earl J. Neff of the Cleveland Ufology Project noted that Ohio is one of the states with the most UFO sightings nationally and is investigating the incident.

"UFO? No, Just One More RA Election" (Rio Grande Sun, May 31, 1984)

This piece addresses a sighting in El Llano, New Mexico, where a resident reported seeing a 'strange flying machine bejeweled with colored lights' at about 9:30 p.m. The object was described as having an array of lights on the bottom like a 'neon sign running' and rows of 'round white lights,' giving a 'bulldozer effect.' The witness also reported hearing a sound similar to a caterpillar tractor. The local police suggested it might have been a sign advertising Edmundo Delgado's Congressional bid, with Delgado confirming he hired a plane from 'Fly by Night' for his campaign. The witness remained unconvinced, stating the object hovered and was too large to be a helicopter and moved slower than a jet, appearing flat on the bottom and oval-shaped.

"Monrovian Studies Space Mystery" by Joe Blackstock (San Gabriel Valley Daily Tribune, June 25, 1984)

This article focuses on Lee Graham, an electronics systems research technician from Monrovia, who is convinced that the 1947 Roswell, New Mexico, incident involved a craft from another world. Graham has meticulously researched the event, collecting numerous clippings and articles. He believes the government has suppressed information about the crash for nearly four decades. His belief was solidified after reading a 1979 National Enquirer article and receiving a letter from Senator Barry Goldwater confirming his denial of access to classified information about the Roswell materials. The article details the initial announcement of a 'flying saucer' crash, the subsequent retraction to a 'weather balloon' story, and claims by a former officer that the balloon story was fabricated to quiet public inquiry. Graham also presents an FBI telegram indicating the remains of a 'flying disc' were taken to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He hypothesizes that the Air Force may have reverse-engineered the craft's materials, potentially leading to the development of the Stealth aircraft. The article also notes the disappearance of Carl Johnson, a former coworker who could have provided more information.

"Temple course analyzes UFO controversy" (Bucks Co. Courier-Times, May 6, 1984)

This piece highlights a Temple University summer course on the UFO controversy, taught by Dr. David M. Jacobs, an associate professor of American history. The course, 'America Studies 116: UFOs in American Society,' aims for a neutral and objective stance, studying the phenomenon as a sociological event. It covers the controversy from its origins, analyzing the attitudes of various groups including the military, CIA, State Department, 'lunatic fringe' groups, religious cults, charlatans, the entertainment industry, and the press. Dr. Jacobs, an authority on UFOs, traces his interest back to high school and emphasizes the need for more research in an atmosphere of objectivity. His book, 'The UFO Controversy in America,' is also mentioned.

"Band of believers shrug off scorn, skeptics to swap UFO stories" (Sunday Register, June 5, 1984)

This article profiles the Des Moines chapter of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON). It describes a group of individuals who meet monthly to share UFO stories and investigate the phenomenon, despite facing skepticism and ridicule. Forrest Lundberg, chapter president, notes that UFOs are no longer a major news topic. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, director of the Center for UFO Studies, suggests that public disinterest may stem from fear of ridicule and media indifference. Walter Andrus, international director of MUFON, believes that 'extraterrestrials' are observing humanity and conducting experiments. The article touches on claims that UFOs are ancient, mentioned in the Bible, and that governments are covering up evidence and technology. MUFON's goals include determining if UFOs are controlled spacecraft, understanding their propulsion, origin, and advanced science. The article also includes personal accounts from members like Don Curtis, Sondra Mentzer, and Lebrey Fox, who share their experiences with UFO sightings.

"Object Lights Up Sky, Causes Loud Boom; Origin a Mystery" (Arkansas Gazette, July 6, 1984)

This news report describes an event where law enforcement agencies received numerous calls about a ball of fire lighting up the sky and causing a sonic boom early Wednesday morning. Firefighters in Arkadelphia reported seeing an object that looked like a rocket with a fireball-like deal in front. Witnesses described a flash of light and a deafening boom. Dr. Derek W. Sears, an assistant professor of chemistry, suggested it was likely a meteorite but did not rule out other possibilities. Unconfirmed reports of the object were received from as far away as College Station, Texas.

"UFO sighted here: Citizen sees disc hovering over park" (Bulletin-Journal, July 8, 1984)

Robert Krone Jr. reported sighting a disc with an orange halo hovering over Cherokee Park in Cape Girardeau. Dr. Harley Rutledge, a physics professor, is seeking other witnesses. Krone described the object as larger than the moon, orange, with a distinct dome, tilted towards him, and estimated to be about 1,000 feet or less above the park. He viewed it for about 15 seconds before it disappeared. Rutledge noted the sighting's significance due to its location within the city limits and its low altitude.

"V-shaped object seen flying toward river in Red Hook" (Register Star, June 22, 1984)

Keith McGilvray reported seeing an 80-foot V-shaped object with white lights and a red light at the end, flying over his house towards the Hudson River. The object reportedly hovered over his house for a few minutes before disappearing southwest. Several neighbors and state troopers also reportedly saw the object. Trooper Fenn described it as several planes flying in formation, but the McGilvrays noted it made a humming sound like a diesel engine and moved too slowly and too low to be conventional aircraft.

"Strange Lights Seen in Sky" (Republic, May 21, 1984)

This article reports on strange lights seen in the skies over three southern Indiana communities. One report from Columbus described streaks of light over the city, described as an 'extra, extra bright star, a white light, maybe blue-white,' that moved silently. An air traffic controller at Columbus Municipal Airport reported nothing unusual. Sheriff's officials in northern Washington County concluded a meteorite had burned through the area after receiving numerous calls. Another incident involved a light 'about the size of a basketball, with a tail on it' that flashed across the sky.

"Object stumps astronomers" (Arkansas Democrat, July 13, 1984)

Astronomers at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock are investigating an object that shone brightly, caused a loud boom, and shook the earth. While calling it a 'meteorite,' they admit uncertainty, also considering possibilities like a fireball, bolide, satellite, or fireworks. Keith Johnson, assistant director of the UALR Planetarium, noted that calls indicated a meteorite, but did not rule out an unidentified flying object.

"UFO convention wants documents declassified" (Express-News, July 8, 1984)

This article covers a Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) convention in San Antonio where approximately 250 'UFOlogists' aimed to pressure the U.S. government to declassify information on UFO sightings. Marge Christensen emphasized the need for public information and education. Speakers discussed UFO sightings in Australia, animal mutilations linked to UFOs, and tribal reactions. The book 'Clear Intent' was distributed, alleging a government cover-up. Barry J. Greenwood, co-author, stated that while the government continues investigating, official studies ceased in 1969, and facts are hidden for national security. A NORAD document indicated UFOs were sighted and followed by radar at several installations. Greenwood estimates at least 10,000 of the 10 million uncorrelated observations catalogued were 'good, solid, bonafide UFO reports.' Thomas Adams reported that the Canadian Mounted Police are investigating unexplained cattle mutilations, with UFOs often seen near mutilation sites.

"Former naval officer believes in UFOs: Has proof government studies them" (Express-News, July 1, 1984)

Tom Deuley, a retired Navy lieutenant commander and president of the San Antonio MUFON, believes U.S. government officials should investigate UFO sightings. He claims documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act will be presented at the 15th annual MUFON symposium. These documents reportedly indicate that several federal intelligence agencies, military departments, and the State Department have studied UFOs since the late 1940s. Deuley co-founded the Fund for UFO Research, which helped obtain over 4,000 pages of classified UFO documents for the book 'Clear Intent.' He states the government is as baffled as the public and agrees there is no security threat from UFOs. Deuley also described drawings based on recent San Antonio sightings of a tear-shaped craft with chartreuse lights. He noted that the public has become complacent about UFOs due to movies like E.T. and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Deuley believes that 80 percent of annual sightings can be attributed to natural phenomena, but the remaining 20 percent remain unexplained. He criticized the Condon report's conclusion that UFOs required no further study.

"SAUCERS HELD SPACE SHIPS BY EX-MARINE" (Times-Herald, Dec. 28, 1953)

This article discusses the controversial subject of 'flying saucers' and the Air Force's investigation. Major Donald E. Keyhoe, a retired U.S. Marine Corps officer, claimed in his book 'Flying Saucers from Outer Space' that saucers are real and of interplanetary origin, citing the 'Utah film' as proof. Albert M. Chop, a former Air Force civilian expert, supported Keyhoe's theory in a letter, stating the Air Force was aware of the interplanetary possibility and had not denied it. The Air Force, however, challenged Chop's claim, calling it his personal opinion. Keyhoe alleged the Air Force was covering up information due to fear of public panic. The article details Keyhoe's claims about the Air Force's refusal to release analyses of sighting reports and his demand for the release of the 'Utah film' analysis. The Air Force stated that while they do not deny the possibility of interplanetary origins, they lack indisputable physical evidence. Brig. Gen. Sory Smith stated that the Air Force is interested in anyone using U.S. air space but has no authentic physical evidence of interplanetary craft.

"'THAT WAS NO AIRPLANE' Are They Hiding Those Lights Under a Bushel?" (Daily News, Jan. 5, 1954)

This report details mysterious red lights seen over the Quantico Marine Base, officially explained as a new type of aircraft navigation light. However, many Marines who witnessed the lights remained unconvinced. Pfc. Norman Viets described the lights as blinking red, appearing to drop straight down, fly straight up, and stand still, with no engine noise or discernible shape. Major D. D. Pomerleau, the base provost marshal, admitted the lights had characteristics unexpected on an airliner. The article suggests a deliberate attempt to cover up the sightings, noting that official records indicate a search was conducted for the lights. Airline representatives mentioned new blinking red lights installed on aircraft tails that could be seen farther away.

"Flying Saucer Theory Startles Space Experts" by Paul Ghali (Chicago Daily News, July 1, 1959)

Dr. Marcel Pages, a French scientist, claims he can produce plans for a flying saucer capable of unlimited speed within six months, without requiring any energy source, by eliminating Earth's gravitation through a rotating electric field. Pages' theory of 'antigravitation' challenges accepted physics. He was reportedly warned by French military intelligence to be cautious and is under police guard. His theory suggests that Newton's apple fell due to cosmic repulsion, not Earth's attraction. Pages' flying saucer design is described as round and flat with a cabin, surrounded by a powerful electric field rotating at the speed of light. He claims to have been working on these theories for 40 years and was not surprised by the appearance of flying saucers in 1946.

"Pilot Says He Saw Speeding 'Bright Blur' Near Daytona" (Tribune, Nov. 13, 1959)

Photographer-flier Clarence Brown reported a close call with a 'bright blur' while flying near Daytona Beach. He described it as a white light, not dim or bright, just a blur, that moved at jet-like speeds but made no noise when it turned. He initially thought it was a jet but noted the lack of sound and silhouette in the moonlight. He reported the sighting to the Federal Aviation Agency. Doyle Huett, also in the plane, corroborated the sighting. Brown stated he didn't believe in flying saucers but couldn't explain what he saw.

"Dancing Objects Seen in Sky" (Star, Feb. 26, 1959)

Captain Peter Killian of American Airlines reported that three mysterious objects, resembling shining saucers, accompanied his DC-6 passenger plane for 45 minutes on a flight from Newark to Detroit. Killian, with 15 years of flying experience, stated he had never seen anything like it. Other crew members and 35 passengers also saw the objects. The objects were sighted at 8,500 feet and appeared to move in intervals, falling back and changing position while maintaining formation with the plane traveling at 350 mph. Passenger N. D. Puscas described the objects as appearing to dance in the sky, with one glowing brighter than others. Killian radioed two other American Airlines planes, and their captains also confirmed seeing the flying objects.

"Mystified by Chunks of Ice" (Star, Nov. 1, 1959)

Scientists and weather bureau officials are puzzled by two basketball-sized chunks of ice that fell from the sky over Beachwood, Ohio. One chunk damaged a roof and ceiling, while the other landed on a golf course. An official from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration suggested the ice might have formed on an unprotected part of an airplane and fallen off. However, a weather bureau spokesman stated that conditions were not conducive to heavy ice formation. Similar reports of ice falling to earth were received from Martin, Georgia, and Acacia, Italy.

"Strange Objects Sighted Over Grand Junction" (Rocky Mountain News, Oct. 27, 1962)

Three individuals reported seeing strange, white, cone-shaped objects hovering in the sky over Grand Junction, Colorado. This sighting occurred 12 hours after numerous reports of strange lights in the Delta-Cedaredge area. One report came from an unidentified man who called a radio-television station, while others were from Mrs. Rita Black, a school board member, and Charley Etinburn, a pharmacist.

"AIRPORT CREW MYSTIFIED: Red, Blinking Light in Sky Puzzles Tampans" (Tribune, Jan. 7, 1961)

A blinking red light observed over Tampa for about 10 minutes mystified the tower crew at Tampa International Airport. Air traffic control specialist Robert Barres described it as a red, blinking light that appeared to be an approaching aircraft, descending slightly on a straight line. The light disappeared east of the field. Radar at MacDill Air Force Base reported nothing unusual. Barres speculated it might have been a flotation gear like a balloon, but the weather bureau denied using such balloons. The article notes that airline navigation lights are being installed on aircraft tails that blink red and can be seen farther away.

"British Flying Saucer Fans Send Thoughts To Lure Space Men Down" (Tribune, May 19, 1959)

Thousands of British 'saucer fans' reportedly sent telepathic messages into space, inviting space ship or flying saucer crews to visit Earth for a short vacation. This was part of an International Flying Saucer Contact Weekend. The Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench, a leading British flying saucer fan, waited in Ashdown Forest, believing it a likely landing spot. Trench is convinced that friendly thoughts might encourage 'space men' to visit. The article mentions other methods of contact, including watching unused television channels or radio wavelengths, and using telepathy. However, no space men apparently visited during the Whitsun weekend.

"Dutch Queen Receives Flying Saucer Believer" (Tribune, May 19, 1959)

Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands met with George Adamski, an American who claims to communicate with beings on Venus. Adamski stated that Venusians were concerned about atomic tests potentially destroying Earth and Venus. The article notes that Adamski received a chilly reception from the press, with one newspaper calling him a 'court jester.' He was questioned by experts, including a Dutch astronomer and the chief of the Royal Air Force.

"UFO Sightings Reported Here On Two Days" (Herald, June 30, 1958)

This article reports on at least 10 sightings of unidentified flying objects, described as mysterious oval-shaped devices with 'incredible' speeds and maneuverability, over Fayette County, Kentucky. William Leet, president of the Blue Grass Chapter of the National Investigation Committee on Aerial Phenomena, listed several reports, including sightings of round silvery devices, elliptical shiny objects, and objects resembling stars. Some reports mentioned objects appearing to chase vapor trails from jet aircraft, changing color, and spinning rapidly. One witness reported seeing a large ball of light descending with sparks.

"Space Folk Unflustered by Skeptics" by Bill Vaughan (Star-Kansas City, June 30, 1958)

This piece describes a convention of UFO believers in Mountain View, Missouri, where fewer than 100 dedicated believers and twice as many curious onlookers attended. The convention featured speakers sharing experiences of seeing flying saucers and talking to Martians, Venusians, and Tithanians. Buck Nelson, the organizer, sold books and souvenirs related to his alleged visits to other planets. The article mentions Lee Childers, a baker from Detroit, who claimed to have been aboard the 'Triganon,' a giant ball-shaped mother ship. Carol Maurer, another speaker, described encounters with beings from 'Wolf Star 359.' The article notes that the space visitors are described as handsome, with melodious voices and magnetic personalities, and that they wish humanity well. The absence of any recognized space visitors at the convention was a point of disappointment for some.

"JET CRASHES; ILLINOIS PILOT MISSING" (Tribune, Oct. 28, 1956)

This brief report states that an F-89 jet fighter crashed and exploded at Dobbins Air Force Base. The pilot and radar observer were listed as 'missing.' No bodies were found in the wreckage, and it was possible the occupants ejected themselves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena, the skepticism and ridicule faced by witnesses, and the ongoing debate about government involvement and potential cover-ups. There is a strong undercurrent of belief in the reality of UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation. The editorial stance, as represented by the publication's focus and the content of the articles, appears to be one of open investigation and a willingness to explore even controversial theories, while also presenting official explanations and skeptical viewpoints for balance.

This issue of "Foreign News" presents a collection of articles from May to July 1984, focusing on various unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, lake monsters, cryptids, and mysterious animal mutilations. The publication draws from a diverse range of international sources, including newspapers from Brazil, Canada, England, Australia, and the United States.

UFOs Cleared for Landing

The lead story discusses a UFO sighting in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where photo-reporter Amilton Vieira captured images of a brilliant, circular, cone-shaped object. The object reportedly hovered for about 20 minutes. Vieira, initially a skeptic, became convinced he had seen a flying saucer. He presented his photos to Aeronáutica authorities, who, while not officially commenting, acknowledged the unusual nature of the report.

In Canada, a farmer in Brunkild, Manitoba, discovered unusual indentations in his yard, resembling a UFO landing, accompanied by a sulfurous smell. Officials from the Museum of Man and Nature expressed interest in testing the site. Meanwhile, in Glencoe, Ontario, multiple bright objects were reported streaking across the sky, described as fireworks or a meteor shower.

England also featured UFO reports, with a woman in Derbyshire describing a close encounter with a semi-circular, humming craft that was not a plane. The Chesterfield UFO society is investigating the sighting. In Northamptonshire, a national UFO group is seeking investigators to research alleged sightings in the Kettering area.

Australia reported on two large UFO landing cases in Western Australia, with investigators believing giant alien spaceships may have left circular depressions in the soil. Scientists have taken soil-core samples, suggesting the objects weighed between 75 and 200 tonnes. Other mystery object sightings were reported in Ballarat, Victoria.

Mystery Object Over Ballaratt

This section details reports of a mysterious object seen over Ballarat, Australia. One witness, Merv Pickford, described seeing an object like "two fluorescent tubes flying overhead" with indistinct outlines and flashing lights, moving slowly before disappearing.

Yorkshire UFO Claim

A report from Yorkshire, England, details a UFO sighting by June Skinner, who described a strange craft in the sky that was "definitely not a plane." Her 12-year-old son also witnessed the semi-circular craft with bright lights.

The Pinkney Report

This recurring segment investigates various phenomena. One article, "Gag on UFO document," highlights the contrasting attitudes of Australian and US governments towards UFOs, with the US government censoring a significant portion of a UFO report. Another article, "DID GIANT UFOS MAKE THESE MARKS?", revisits the Western Australian landing cases, detailing the circular depressions and scientific findings.

"Other Mystery Object Sightings" compiles reader reports, including one from Ballarat, Australia, describing a strange object seen by eight people.

'Tahoe Monster'- Prehistoric Fish or 17-Foot Sturgeon?

This article from the Gazette, Schenectady, NY, discusses sightings of a large creature in Lake Tahoe, California. Witnesses described a 17-foot-long fish, with experts suggesting it could be a prehistoric creature or a large sturgeon, though sturgeon are not typically found in Lake Tahoe.

Man claims 'Big Foot' gave him, dog a scare

A report from Spanaway, Washington, details a man's encounter with an eight-foot-tall "Big Foot" creature. The man was awakened by his dog's unusual behavior and witnessed the creature near his home.

Bear Lake Monster Might Get You, Kiddies, If You Don't Watch Out

This article from the Tribune, Salt Lake City, UT, explores the legend of the Bear Lake Monster. It delves into various theories about the monster's origin, including Native American legends and settler folklore, with historian Pat Wilde collecting numerous accounts. The legend is used by parents to encourage children to do chores.

Fireballs

This section from the Arkansas Democrat presents accounts of mysterious "fireballs" or luminous objects seen in rural areas across the nation. Reports from Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama describe sightings of balls of light, some of which were described as "phosphorescent-like" and moved slowly or spooked horses.

Livestocks Mutilations Still Mystery

This report from Light, San Antonio, TX, discusses the ongoing mystery of livestock mutilations. Animal mutilation specialist Tomas R. Adams notes that while the number of reported cases has dropped significantly since the mid-1970s, no solid explanation exists. The precision of the surgical removal of body parts, lack of blood, and the absence of tracks or signs of struggle are highlighted as puzzling aspects.

Another article, "North Powder calf dies mysteriously," from the Observer, La Grande, OR, details the baffling death of a calf that was found mutilated with its sex organs and tail removed, but with no blood or signs of struggle. Ranchers and veterinarians are puzzled by the precise nature of the mutilation and the unusual behavior of other animals around the carcass.

On the Trail of the 'Wild Man' of China

This article from The New York Times reports on sightings of a "Wild Man" or "Ye Ren" in China. The creature is described as a seven-foot-tall hairy primate with human features. Expeditions have searched for it, finding footprints and hair, but no definitive capture or photographic evidence has been obtained. The phenomenon is compared to the Yeti and Bigfoot.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained and the mysterious, with a strong focus on UFOs and related phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting reported accounts and investigations, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also acknowledging the skepticism and scientific inquiry surrounding these topics. The magazine seems to lean towards presenting evidence and witness testimony, even when it challenges conventional explanations.