UFO Newsclipping Service - 1985 04 - no 189

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated April 1985, presents a collection of articles and reports related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs) from various newspapers. The service acts as a curator of UFO-related news, providing a broad overview of sightings, investigations, and public perception of the phenomenon.

Springs man is UFO prober

This article introduces Dennis Myers, a Colorado Springs resident and the area representative for the Mutual UFO Network Inc. (MUFON). Myers expresses his dislike for the term "close encounters" due to its popularization by Hollywood. He explains that MUFON, a 1,500-member organization founded in 1969, aims to investigate UFO sightings. Myers notes that while there have been numerous sightings in Colorado Springs over the years, he has not been called to investigate any for over a year. He describes his process, which involves trying to find natural explanations for sightings first. Myers recounts a fascinating case from Minnesota involving a sheriff named Val Johnson, whose car was affected by a bright light in a field, causing it to skid 370 feet and stop. The vehicle's chronometer and watch stopped simultaneously, and its antennas were found bent at a 90-degree angle, with lab analysis suggesting they were hit by an object traveling at 152,000 mph.

Nuke plant guards report hovering UFOs

This report details an incident at the Indian Point 3 nuclear plant in New York where security officers reportedly spotted a large UFO on July 24, 1984. Philip Imbrogno, an astronomer with the Center for UFO Studies, interviewed six guards who claimed the UFO was 900 feet long and hovered over the plant for 15 minutes. Officials from the New York Power Authority (NYPA) confirmed the sightings but downplayed their significance, suggesting they might have been pranksters flying Cessna 152s. Security coordinator John Branciforte dismissed the reports as "pure speculation" and denied that guards "broke out the shotguns." Imbrogno has filed a Freedom of Information request for documents related to the sighting.

Trio Spots Another UFO

Three young boys in Manchester, Massachusetts, reported seeing a round, saucer-shaped spacecraft with flashing green, purple, orange, and red lights, along with a single white "headlight." The object reportedly flew over the high school, hovered, and then disappeared.

UFO: Over the years, plenty of Virginians have seen the light(s)

This article by Paul Dellinger explores the history of UFO sightings in Virginia, referencing early reports and the public's fascination with the phenomenon. It mentions the 1951 movie "The Thing" and its impact on public perception. The article recounts several specific incidents in Virginia, including a landing near Fishersville in 1964, a scorched patch of road in South Hill investigated by the Air Force in 1966, and reports of "little green men" in Staunton. It also details sightings by a gunsmith named Horace Burns in 1964, whose account led to a public lecture. Ernest Gehman, a retired professor, was involved in investigating Burns' sighting and noted high radiation levels, which he claims were disputed by Air Force investigators. The article also touches upon the "War of the Worlds" radio broadcast and its effect on public panic. Specific sightings mentioned include those in Smyth County (1965), Roanoke (1965), James City County (1965), and Hanover County (1966). It references the Condon Report's conclusion that UFOs did not add to scientific knowledge and the subsequent disbanding of the Air Force's UFO investigation unit. The article concludes by noting that despite the official stance, sightings continue, with a mention of "strange airships" reported in 1897.

High Country May Become Home For UFO Museum

This article discusses the plans of George Fawcett, a 40-year investigator of UFOs, to establish a UFO museum in the High Country area of North Carolina. Fawcett believes the area is suitable due to its tourist appeal and a high incidence of UFO sightings, including the Brown Mountain Lights and Cherokee legends. He estimates the museum's cost at $1-3 million and envisions it including a library, exhibits, and a study facility. Fawcett notes that North Carolina ranks fourth nationally in UFO sightings and that only about ten percent of sightings are reported. He also expresses disappointment with the U.S. government's lack of openness regarding UFO research compared to the Soviet Union and China.

UFOs spotted twice at Hunlock Creek

This brief report mentions that residents of Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania, observed "lighted, round objects" flying in the sky on two separate occasions within a week. James Merrion reported seeing groups of five to 10 objects with various colored lights, and on another occasion, "white flashes" and jet aircraft circling the area.

Mystery lights are still puzzling

This article describes an incident near Alliance, Nebraska, where authorities investigated mysterious airborne lights. Sheriff's deputy Jim Olson and State Patrolman Neil Miles observed a bright, stationary object that was difficult to identify. Miles stated it wasn't a planet or a star and could have been a helicopter, but an airport radar operator noted the lights were visible on radar but had no discernible shape. The object reportedly moved erratically and disappeared.

Cantwell area residents report mysterious white light

Residents of Cantwell, Alaska, reported seeing a blinding white light pass overhead and vanish over the mountains. Witnesses described it as not being an aircraft, illuminating the mountain range for 30-40 seconds. John Wallace, who has 13 years of experience checking microwave sites, stated he had never seen anything like it before, initially thinking it was a nuclear flash but noting its prolonged duration. Jack and Shirley Lawson, lodge owners, also reported seeing the light. Leon and Elizabeth Smith, who run another lodge, mentioned seeing similar bright white lights in the past, low around treetop level, which faded in and out without apparent movement.

UFO reported

A Milford, New Hampshire resident reported seeing a large red ball flying at high speed over the high school toward Nashua. Police are investigating.

UFO Sighting: Zeller Shares Experience

Keene Police Sergeant John C. Zeller shared his experience of sighting a mysterious object in the sky over Keene, which is still classified as a UFO. He described pulsating lights and an object that moved in a manner defying physics, accelerating and maneuvering silently. The object was cream-colored, about 50 feet long, with a rounded bottom, and no visible seams or sound except for two hums. Police headquarters contacted the FAA, which could not pick up the object on radar. Zeller believes that some UFO sightings are explained, such as a V-shaped object identified as a V formation of airplanes, but others remain unexplained.

New UFO Baffles Ossining

Local police in Ossining, New York, were baffled by multi-colored lights seen flying over the village. Two police officers reported a cigar-shaped object with yellow and green lights traveling southbound at a slow rate of speed. The object then accelerated rapidly. Police Chief Ronald Goldfarb stated he had "no idea whatsoever" what caused the phenomenon, noting that similar incidents in the past were attributed to pilots flying in formation.

Airplanes cheat UFO sighters again

This article addresses reports of strange lights seen in the sky over Danbury, Connecticut, and surrounding areas. Paul Estefan, administrator of Danbury Municipal Airport, explained that the lights were from three or four single-engine planes flying in formation at high altitudes, using their lights as a safety measure. He noted that similar incidents had occurred previously, with planes tracked to a private airport in Stormville, NY. Estefan filed a complaint with the FAA regarding these flights, which he believes are irresponsible and could lead to tragedies.

Professor Describes UFOs

Joseph Long, an anthropology professor at Plymouth State College, discusses his belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial life. He states that there are likely millions of other life forms in the universe, with many technologically advanced. Long cites thousands of UFO sightings reported daily and notes that about one-third of his lecture audience have seen a UFO. He mentions that sightings in New Hampshire are similar to those worldwide and that the average UFO sighting involves a flying saucer-type vessel capable of impossible maneuvers. Long also points to less tangible evidence like burned patches in fields and claims that people reporting alien abductions have passed lie detector tests. He suggests that alleged depictions of aliens are based on ancient UFO sightings.

editorial: Make-believe UFOs

This editorial criticizes pilots who fly over the Danbury area pretending to be UFOs, causing unnecessary calls to police and jamming phone lines. It highlights an incident where an instructor from Bluebird Aviation School followed 10 single-engine planes flying in formation, confirming they were not extraterrestrial. The editorial calls for pilots to police themselves and for the FAA to address the issue, warning that such irresponsible behavior could lead to a tragedy.

Danbury Airport chief lodges complaint over night-fliers

This article reports that Paul Estefan, administrator of Danbury Municipal Airport, has filed a formal complaint with the FAA regarding pilots flying in formation at high altitudes and flashing their landing lights, causing confusion and numerous calls from skywatchers. Estefan stated that while he couldn't find specific FAA regulations prohibiting such flights, he believes the pilots should be identified and admonished. William H. Williams, an FAA manager, acknowledged the complaint but noted that the FAA cannot take formal action if no regulations have been violated. The article also mentions that the News-Times received many calls about the sightings.

UFOs - 'This is for real'

Robert Hastings, a speaker who wears a blue pinstriped suit, presents evidence for the existence of UFOs, citing documents released by the FBI, CIA, and Air Force through the Freedom of Information Act. These documents reportedly refer to the recovery of flying saucers with aliens, a dogfight over Iran, and green fireballs. Hastings believes that UFOs are real and are often seen near nuclear missile sites, suggesting they may be benevolent beings concerned about nuclear destruction. He claims the government is keeping sightings under wraps and that he lectures about this phenomenon four months a year.

Swede's UFO claim can't be faulted

Swedish authorities are reportedly taking seriously the account of Ante Jonsson, who claims ETs emerged from a UFO and attempted to kidnap him. Jonsson's truck driver corroborated part of his story. Jonsson was sent for psychiatric tests but was deemed fit. He described a large UFO blocking his path home, from which ETs emerged. He escaped and hid in a deserted house. A timber lorry's approach is believed to have saved him. Police could find no explanation for his story other than it being true.

'Christmas' UFO's sighted in city

Three Kimberley, South Africa, residents reported seeing a round, brown, balloon-like object on December 22. Separately, Mrs. Cathy Hertog and her daughter saw an orange glowing object on Christmas Day that hovered silently before falling out of sight. Her daughter believed it was the Star of Bethlehem.

UFO riddle has experts baffled

This article discusses sightings of bizarre shining lights above Bredon Hill, England. UFO expert Gordon Gregory is investigating the mystery, having received several calls about strange lights that stop and start. Tony Green of Worcester Skyscan has heard nothing of the Bredon mystery.

Many sightings of bright lights over the Far North

Witnesses in Cairns, Mossman, Mareeba, Innisfail, and Bamaga, Australia, reported seeing bright orange and red lights in the sky. One witness provided a sketch of an oval object with a blue line and alternating red and yellow lights. Another described a triangular object with lights at the front and corner. An investigator with UFO Research Far North Queensland, Russell Boundy, was unsure of the origin but received detailed calls describing pulsating orange and green lights and a white light at the back.

euphoria!

This brief report describes an unusual seminar held in Springfield, England, focusing on the witnesses of UFOs rather than the objects themselves. Expert Dr. Alexander Keul from Austria led the seminar, emphasizing the importance of understanding how witnesses present information and their emotional states. The goal was to create a new body of UFO data that would attract professional interest, as current UFO cases are considered purely technical or non-existent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue prominently features recurring themes of UFO sightings, investigations, and the potential for government secrecy or cover-ups. The articles highlight a range of witness accounts, from personal encounters to reports from security personnel and law enforcement. There's a consistent thread of skepticism from official sources contrasted with the conviction of witnesses and UFO researchers. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Make-believe UFOs" piece, is critical of irresponsible behavior that misrepresents genuine UFO phenomena, emphasizing the need for seriousness and accuracy in reporting and investigation. The overall tone suggests a belief in the reality of UFOs and a desire to uncover the truth, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by hoaxes and misidentifications.

Title: TIMES-COLONIST
Issue Date: March 18, 1985
Cover Headline: Is vanished son adrift in space?

This issue of the TIMES-COLONIST features a prominent article detailing the mysterious disappearance of Granger Taylor, a young man from Duncan, British Columbia, who vanished on November 29, 1980. The article explores his parents' search for answers and Granger's own peculiar beliefs and actions leading up to his disappearance.

Is Vanished Son Adrift in Space?

The main article, by Derek Sidenius, recounts the story of Granger Taylor, who left his parents, Jim and Grace Taylor, a note stating he was going to walk aboard an alien spaceship for a 42-month interstellar voyage. The note was found on November 29, 1980, the same day Granger was last seen having supper at Bob's Grill in Duncan. His parents have not heard from him since, and the 42-month period mentioned in his note concluded on May 29 of the previous year.

The article details Granger's unique interests, including his fascination with UFOs and his construction of a spaceship from two satellite dishes, where he even slept on occasion. His parents have kept his room and belongings as he left them, hoping for his return. The RCMP has conducted an exhaustive search but has found no clues, with Corporal Mike Demchuk highlighting the baffling disappearance of Granger's 1972 light blue Datsun pickup truck as a significant mystery.

Granger was described as a physically imposing but shy and introspective individual, known for his exceptional mechanical abilities. His teenage accomplishments included building a one-cylinder car, overhauling a bulldozer, and restoring an old steam locomotive, many of which are now in the Duncan Forest Museum. He even built a replica of a Kitty Hawk warplane, which was later sold.

Friends recall Granger mentioning mental communications with beings from another galaxy and an invitation for a trip through the solar system. He told a friend, Bob Nielsen, that he received mental communications from another galaxy and was told that their crafts were powered by magnetism.

The Taylors have offered a $100 reward for information leading to the recovery of Granger's vehicle, but have received no response. Investigations have included checks with the passport office, Revenue Canada, and Unemployment Insurance, with Granger's name entered into the national police computer system.

Linda Baron, who worked at Bob's Grill, remembers Granger as a quiet regular customer. He was last seen wearing a brown knitted sweater, a black T-shirt, jeans, and logger boots. His winter coat was later found in his doghouse.

The article also touches upon the possibility of alien contact and UFO sightings, mentioning John Magor, a UFO devotee, and Dr. Max Edwards, a linguist and former professor at the University of Victoria, who are believers in such phenomena.

Other Mentions and Related Articles

Several other short articles and mentions are present in the scanned pages:

• Village folk report sighting of UFO: A brief report from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, about villagers witnessing a brightly lighted, round object streaking across the sky with a trail of rainbow colors.
• Russians in UFO probe: A report from London, England, stating that Russian air force bosses are conducting a secret inquiry into UFO sightings, with at least 300 reported by Soviet pilots.
• Still spellbound by boyhood UFO: An article from Luton, England, about Bill Dillon, who has been fascinated by UFOs since a sighting in the school playground at age ten. He is a member of the Luton Astronomical Society and the British Interplanetary Society.
• Fancy that!: A piece from Leeds, England, discussing a theory by Gerry Birdsall of the Yorkshire UFO Society about "silent" helicopters equipped with powerful lights being used for surveillance.
• Creature is Loch Ness-type, hair or fur on body, man says: An article from Edmonton, Alberta, about Randy Sampietro's belief that a creature in Christina Lake is a Loch Ness-type monster.
• Cold Lake's Kinosoo is a celebrity: A report about the legend of a large fish, known as Kinosoo, in Cold Lake, Alberta.
• Monster search cancelled as Saddle Lake freezes up: An article from Edmonton, Alberta, detailing the cancellation of a government helicopter search for a lake monster in Saddle Lake due to an early freeze-up.
• Inventor insists incredible machine makes electricity: A report from Washington about Joseph Newman, an inventor claiming his machine can produce more energy than it uses, challenging current physics principles.
• Government agrees to probe lake of mysterious 'monster': A report from Toronto, Ontario, about the provincial government agreeing to fly a helicopter over Saddle Lake to investigate monster sightings.
• Stalking dinosaurs: A mention of Herman Regusters leading a second expedition to the Congo to find a living brontosaurus-like creature.
• Does Sadie haunt Saddle Lake?: An article from Edmonton, Alberta, discussing the investigation into sightings of a lake monster, nicknamed Sadie, in Saddle Lake.
• Community feels little fear of mysterious light on road: An article from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, about a mysterious light on a road in Prague, Alberta, that residents have observed for years without alarm.
• Big Foot 'tracked': A report from Calgary about Lucien Lacerte claiming to have photographed large tracks he believes were made by a Sasquatch.
• Gas bubbles, disasters linked: A chemist's suggestion that sudden releases of gas bubbles from ocean floor hydrates could explain disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle.
• Stalking Champ, New England's mysterious beast of the lake: An article from Bridgeport, CT, about the legend of Champ, a mysterious creature said to inhabit Lake Champlain.
• Scientists Unite To Research 'Monsters': A report about the International Society of Cryptozoology, a group of scientists dedicated to investigating reports of creatures like the Loch Ness monster and Bigfoot.
• The elusive Loch Ness monster is real to him: An article about Robert Rines, who has been searching for the Loch Ness monster for 14 years and believes in its existence based on eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence.
• Mysterious minerals could explain tale: A report from Kingman, Arizona, about the legend of "Death Trap Mountain" and its mysterious shining rock.
• Bigfoot: Soviet true-believer plans to lure, tame one: A report from Washington about a Soviet scientist, Andrei Kozlov, planning an expedition to find and tame Bigfoot.
• Experts stage re-run of fire girl tragedy: A report about fire experts investigating the possibility of spontaneous combustion in the death of a girl student.
• Lights go out in Napa: A report about a mysterious power outage in Napa, California, preceded by bright flashes.
• Inventor's Claim One Of Patent Injustice: An article about Joseph Newman's struggle to obtain a patent for his energy machine, which he claims produces more energy than it consumes.
• Chessie and Champ: A letter to the editor discussing the lack of recognition for the Chessie creature in Maryland and comparing it to the Champ creature of Lake Champlain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, mysteries, and the unknown, particularly focusing on alleged sightings of cryptids (monsters, Bigfoot, lake creatures) and UFOs. There's a clear interest in presenting these accounts, often with a degree of skepticism but also acknowledging the persistent nature of these reports and the dedication of those who investigate them. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also highlighting the scientific and investigative efforts being made to understand them. The inclusion of diverse articles from different locations suggests a broad interest in the unexplained across various cultures and regions.