UFO Newsclipping Service - 1986 01 - no 198

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated January 1986, is titled "Is anybody up there?" and focuses on UFO sightings and investigations primarily in Indiana and northwestern Ohio. The publication compiles reports from various sources, including newspapers and investigator accounts, to explore the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects.

Close Encounters: A Glance at What's Been Spotted in the Sky Around Fort Wayne

This section provides a chronological list of UFO sightings reported in the Fort Wayne, Indiana area, spanning from February 7, 1955, to October 21, 1973. The entries detail various descriptions of objects, including "star-like" objects, "circular objects," "orange-yellow objects," "cigar-like" objects, "spherical objects," and objects with "red and white lights."

• Feb. 7, 1955: An American Airlines pilot reported seeing "star-like" objects that were "stationary, then speeded up and rushed away in groups of twos and threes."
• Sept. 8, 1956: A Fort Wayne resident reported seeing a "circular object slightly larger than a grapefruit" overhead for 45 minutes, described as "silvery white and was very bright."
• May 22, 1964: The tower at Baer Field received numerous calls about "four orange-yellow objects" that "flashed rhythmically with intense flashes."
• March 4, 1966: A Bluffton girl reported seeing a "cigar-like" object going around the moon at 4 a.m.
• Sept. 24, 1973: A spherical object, described as having no exhaust or visible windows, was reported sighted between 10:15 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.
• Oct. 14, 1973: Richard Pape, a Huntington farmer, reported a flying object with red and blue lights followed him home. County police also reported a white object zig-zagging across the sky, described as "bigger than a star."
• Oct. 18, 1973: At least two UFOs were spotted near New Haven, described as having red and white lights.
• Oct. 21, 1973: A fireman near St. Joe, Ind., reported seeing "20 or 30" greenish-white lights circling, one of which appeared to plummet to the ground.
• October, 1973: A woman and her grandson reported seeing a greyish-white object in the sky south of Fort Wayne.

Is anybody up there?

This article by Alan Derringer explores the UFO phenomenon through the lens of believers and skeptics in Indiana and northwestern Ohio. It features interviews with John Timmerman, a UFO investigator and vice president at Lima's South Side Savings and Loan, who also serves as chairman of the board and treasurer for the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS). Timmerman, a skeptic turned believer, has interviewed hundreds of people who claim credible encounters with unidentified objects.

Timmerman notes that CUFOS was founded by J. Allen Hynek, a former U.S. Air Force investigator who initially sought to explain UFO reports but found too many credible witnesses with unexplained details. Timmerman himself became interested in UFOs in 1947 after reading about a pilot who reported nine saucer-shaped objects flying at an estimated 1,600 mph. He runs the international business office of CUFOS from a small office in Lima.

Despite the historical prevalence of sightings, Timmerman observes a current slump in significant UFO reports, with CUFOS collecting only "hundreds of reports a year" globally, down from hundreds per day in 1973. He speculates that sightings come in waves but admits he doesn't know why. While not suggesting they are extraterrestrial, he acknowledges the evidence seems to suggest intelligent beings.

In contrast, Charles Tucker, international director of the Nappanee, Ind.-based International UFO Investigative Bureau, firmly believes intelligent beings are at the controls of UFOs and that they live on Earth, possibly beneath the Amazon River or deep in oceans. Tucker claims to have seen two UFOs himself and led an investigation in Brazil's "Devil's Graveyard" where people reported saucer-shaped crafts emerging from the Amazon River. He also recounts a hunter who claimed to be knocked out by a beam of light from an object. Tucker believes these beings are red in color, based on hypnotic regression of abductees describing a "red city."

The article also details an incident on Interstate 70 where three truckers reported a bright blue light that caused their radios and engines to fail. The light disappeared after four seconds, and everything returned to normal. One trucker allegedly spoke to the UFO, which then lit up again. A woman in a car described the object as a "big, blue lampshade."

Francis Ridge, an investigator for MUFON, uses a device to measure electromagnetic disturbances caused by UFOs, which has triggered an alarm 19 times since 1970. He also uses Geiger counters to measure radioactivity. Ridge has seen "a lot of nocturnal lights" and objects resembling jet fuselages without wings.

Tucker believes that UFOs are "advanced beyond us, and that they don't really need us."

John Timmerman's Perspective

Timmerman expresses that there is "something very strange out there," whether it's in the sky or within people. He questions whether people are hallucinating in multiples if they report seeing these things. He believes that if it's a mental aberration, science should examine it. Timmerman, a Methodist, finds that his faith has been enhanced by the thought that Earth may not be the only place God created.

Dante Vaghi: 11th UFO Sighting

This section reports on Dante Vaghi of Elizabeth Street, Bethel, CT, who claims his 11th UFO sighting on September 18 at 10:55 p.m. He described a saucer-shaped object with a bright light on top, a red light, and a green light on the tail section, traveling at about 12,000 feet from southwest to northeast. Vaghi has been investigating UFOs for 35 years and believes 48% of people believe in UFOs. He has designed a UFO T-shirt and sent five to President Reagan.

Don Worley: UFO Investigator Laughing Back in Connersville

Don Worley, a 64-year-old UFO field investigator from Connersville, Indiana, has spent 20 years investigating UFOs, ape-like entities (Bigfoot), and animal mutilations. He is the author of 15 magazine articles and a researcher for the Aerial Phenomenon Research Organization and CUFOS. Worley, who was once a critic of unexplained phenomena, now investigates "close encounters" and believes these phenomena are related to UFOs. He has plaster casts of ape-like entity tracks and believes these entities move from dimension to dimension. He also discusses animal mutilations, citing a newspaper report of a mutilated calf with no footprints or blood.

Worley believes aliens have been around since Biblical times, citing Exodus. He asserts that aliens are here solely for their benefit and are "aloof" and "evil."

Sees Mystery 'Bar'

This is a personal account by Nora Ann Allen of Pocatello, Idaho, describing a sighting on November 9, 1985, at 6:15 a.m. She observed a luminous "bar" of light moving in the sky, described as being about 10 to 12 degrees longer than its breadth and square on both ends. The object moved slowly and arced upward. The editor suggests this might have been a light refraction off mountain tops.

Phenomena-busters: South Charleston pair pursues things that go bump in the night

This article discusses the work of UFO investigators in South Charleston, West Virginia. It mentions Victor Stillman, who works with a laboratory that uses isophotometric analysis to identify fake UFO photos. The article also touches on the difficulty of proving UFOs exist due to the lack of physical artifacts and the media's tendency to dismiss reports.

Aliens find county a tourist attraction?

This article from the Idaho State Journal reports on a UFO sighting by three truckers on Interstate 70, where a bright blue light caused their vehicles to stop. It also mentions a sighting by a woman in Pilot Mountain, NC, and a Saturn-shaped object seen near Lincolnton, NC. The article notes that UFO sightings might increase in 1986 due to people going outside to view Halley's Comet.

Two UFO sightings reported in Boxboro

This article from the Lowell Sun reports on two separate UFO sightings in Boxboro, Massachusetts. Police officers Stephen Trefry and Robert Morrill spotted two large orange lights at tree top level. Later, a physical therapist, her daughter, and a friend also saw two large orange lights beaming out of the clouds. Investigators from MUFON interviewed the officers and five Harvard residents who also reported seeing orange lights.

UFO sightings attract investigators to area

This article from the Lowell Sun details how UFO sightings in Boxboro and Harvard, MA, attracted investigators from MUFON. Officer Stephen Trefry reported multiple sightings of orange lights, and investigators collected detailed information and photos. The article notes that the investigators believed the stories but could not offer explanations.

John Warren Investigates

This section discusses John Warren, a physicist from Los Alamos, who investigated a report of brilliant lights moving over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico in 1984. His analysis, along with K.J. Ewing, suggested the object might have been a military KC-135 tanker aircraft, though some eyewitness accounts remained unexplained.

Ghost stories of space age

This article profiles Richard Sigismond, a Boulder-based UFOlogist, who has investigated cattle mutilations and close encounters. Sigismond believes UFOs are artifact craft from extremely advanced technologies, possibly from other dimensions or parallel realities, and that the planet is under surveillance. He discusses the challenges of UFO research, including the lack of physical evidence and the public's perception of UFOlogy as pseudoscience. Sigismond is involved with CUFOS and aims to apply scientific methodology to UFO research. He has written numerous articles and is featured in documentaries. He also discusses his theories on the appearance of extraterrestrials and the potential impact of contact.

Three cases of uncomfortable encounters

This section presents three case studies of UFO encounters:

• Case Study: CE-1, Nov. 1975 - Near Sterling, Colo.: Bill Jackson, a reporter, and his wife Cheryl reported seeing a single red light that approached like a 747, flew very low to the ground, and made no sound. The object was described as huge with rows of lights of various colors.
• Case Study: CE-1, July 6, 1967 - 45 Miles Northeast of Missoula, Mont.: Richard Sigismond and a friend witnessed a cigar-shaped object slip beneath clouds and hover near spruce pines. They measured it as 125 feet wide and 30 feet thick, with a soft metal sheen and no visible seams or rivets.
• Case Study: CE-2, May 1982 - Near Simla, Colo.: This case involves cattle mutilations, a phenomenon that was on the decline but saw a resurgence. A horse's genitals and anus were removed with precision, and the carcass showed signs of preservation despite decay and infection. The rancher's dogs avoided the site.

Of alien looks, U.S. secrecy and preparing for the outlanders

This section features Richard Sigismond's thoughts on various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. He describes the physical characteristics of extraterrestrials, noting variations in height, head shape, skin tone, and limb structure. Sigismond addresses the perceived decrease in UFO reports, suggesting that activity may shift geographically rather than vanish. He argues that even a small number of well-established sightings can prove the phenomenon's reality. Sigismond dismisses the idea that UFOs are merely reflections of human fantasies, citing consistent testimony from diverse cultures. He also discusses government secrecy surrounding UFOs, suggesting a cover-up and questioning why the phenomenon would be kept secret if it didn't exist. He doubts that UFOs are simply Air Force test vehicles due to their advanced capabilities. Sigismond emphasizes the need for more researchers, time, and money to organize UFO data and calls for government cooperation. He stresses the importance of preparing the public for potential contact with advanced civilizations gradually to avoid cultural shock.

UFO reported at Retsil Field

This report details Janice Mutek's sighting of a large, white, saucer-shaped object with three blue lights forming a triangle, hovering over soccer fields in Retsil, Washington. The object switched locations and emitted a beam of light before disappearing. Mutek reported the incident to the police, who reportedly found it amusing.

Something in the sky

This article from the Journal-American discusses UFO researchers in the Puget Sound area who are convinced that UFOs are real and that visitors are frequent. It highlights the work of various UFO groups, including the New Age Foundation, UFO Contact Center, Compufon, and Puget Sound Aerial Phenomena Research (PSAPR). These groups collect and analyze sighting reports to convince the public of the UFO phenomenon's existence. The article mentions the U.S. Air Force's cessation of UFO investigations in 1969 and the use of the Freedom of Information Act to access related documents. It also touches on the scientific approach to studying UFO sites, including radiation levels and electromagnetic activity. The article notes the global nature of UFO reports since the 1947 "flying saucer" incident and briefly mentions the Roswell Incident.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent nature of UFO sightings, the credibility of witnesses, the challenges faced by UFO investigators, and the ongoing debate about the reality and origin of these phenomena. There's a strong emphasis on the scientific approach to studying UFOs, with organizations like CUFOS and MUFON playing key roles. The issue also touches upon the potential for government secrecy and the implications of extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without definitively concluding on the nature of UFOs, but leaning towards the belief that something unexplained is occurring.

This issue of the JOURNAL-AMERICAN, dated November 10, 1985, delves into the persistent mysteries surrounding UFOs and potential extraterrestrial contact. The cover story, "Once visited by UFOs, two await great events," by Doug Margeson, features interviews with Wayne Aho and Dan Edwards, who share their beliefs and experiences related to UFOs and alien encounters. The magazine explores various sightings, investigations, and theories, highlighting both public fascination and official skepticism.

Key Articles and Features

"Once visited by UFOs, two await great events"

This feature introduces Wayne Aho, a member of the New Age Foundation, who believes UFOs have been colonizing Earth for centuries, with Mount Rainier being a focal point. He recounts a psychic experience related to the Battle of the Bulge and a 1957 UFO landing that provided telepathic information about future events. Aho formed the New Age Foundation in 1959. Dan Edwards, director of the UFO Contact Center in Seattle, believes that people contacted by extraterrestrials are walking among us, often unaware. He shares his own experience of abduction in 1979, which led him to form the center. Edwards lists 23 symptoms found among contactees, including specific physical pains, missing time, and interests in certain subjects. He theorizes that extraterrestrials have been contacting humans since ancient times, possibly colonizing parts of North America, and that current "earth changes" are part of a larger program.

Hypnosis Session Transcript

The issue includes a detailed transcript of a hypnosis session with a Bellevue businessman who claims to have been abducted aboard a UFO on Crystal Mountain. Under hypnosis, conducted by Charles Tebbetts, the man describes being taken aboard a craft, examined, and left with "needle" marks on his back. He recounts details of the interior of the craft, the beings he encountered, and the experience of being returned to the mountain.

Local UFO Sightings and Investigations

The magazine reports on local UFO activity, including a videotaped sighting in the Tacoma industrial area in 1982, analyzed as a dome-shaped vehicle. Another sighting involved a young woman driving on I-5 who saw V-shaped lights arranged in a triangular formation.

"Strange Hovering Lights" (Wilton, CT)

This article from the BULLETIN reports on sightings of strange red lights in Wilton, Connecticut, in October 1985. While police and airport spokesmen attributed the phenomenon to ultra-light airplanes flying in a V-shaped formation, residents described hovering objects that made no noise.

"The do's and don'ts of UFO watching" (Dover, NH)

This piece by Will Fay features Peter R. Geremia, state director of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), who conducted a workshop on reporting UFO sightings. Geremia emphasizes the importance of intelligent reporting and cautions against contacting the press or government directly. He describes various sightings in New Hampshire, including the Wakefield "melted pond" incident, and stresses the need for trained investigators to gather credible data.

"UFO probe learns of further sightings" (Derbyshire, England)

Investigators probing a mystery UFO in Derbyshire received reports of further sightings of a strange glowing light above Windley. The Nottingham UFO Investigation Society ruled out aircraft or stars, suggesting an energy phenomenon.

"UFO RETURN SPARKS NEW MYSTERY" (Ashbourne, England)

This article reports on a recurring UFO sighting near Windley, Derbyshire, observed by residents over several nights. The object showed brilliant white lights and moved very fast. The Derby Group of the Nottingham UFO Investigation Society is considering an "energy phenomenon" theory.

"Spaceman Nigel drops in for some views" (Bordon, England)

A survey conducted by New Era Publications in Alton found that 70% of 100 people questioned believed in life on other planets, and 55% believed aliens could invade. The results were to be sent to the House of Lords UFO study group.

"Nessie: Fact or fantasy, it's drawn scientists, tourists for eons"

This article explores the enduring legend of the Loch Ness Monster, detailing sightings, scientific expeditions, and various theories, including that of a marine dinosaur, a giant eel, or a new species of wildlife. It also discusses skeptical arguments and the cultural appeal of the mystery.

"The great UFO hush-up" (Johannesburg, South Africa)

This report suggests close ties between the South African Government and organizations involved in UFO research. It details how the government investigates UFO sightings, with SAAF intelligence officers keeping classified files and scientists from the CSIR investigating incidents. The article mentions a specific case in Rosmead where government officials investigated a damaged tennis court after servicemen reported seeing strange red lights.

"A hollow Earth or windows in time - boffins' secret theories"

This piece discusses theories about UFOs that do not involve extraterrestrials, such as the "grid theory" involving "windows" in another dimension, and the "hollow Earth theory" proposing passages to the Earth's center. It also touches on geological theories linking UFO sightings to areas of instability.

"Aliens are watching us says Kevin" (Walton, England)

Kevin Rossiter, a plumber from Walton, claims to have seen alien spaceships and even aliens inside a craft multiple times over four years. He believes humans are being observed by beings from another planet.

Translations of UFO Sightings

The issue includes translated reports of UFO sightings from Italy and Sweden, detailing observations of formations of lights, discoidal objects, and strange phenomena over land and sea.

"Man Questions History" (Stuart, FL)

Rick Friedman presents theories suggesting advanced civilizations existed on Earth thousands of years ago, flying airplanes and communicating globally. He questions historical accounts of the Great Pyramids and links ancient civilizations like the Mayans and Egyptians.

"Mutilated horse reportedly found" (Great Falls, MT)

This article details a report of a mutilated horse found near Fairfield, Montana. The owner, Tom Denning, describes precise cuts and missing body parts, suggesting a non-predatory cause, while authorities attribute it to predators.

"S.F. Cops Baffled by the Nighttime Hum" (San Francisco, CA)

This report covers a mysterious low, droning hum that kept residents of San Francisco awake. Despite numerous calls and investigations, the source of the noise remained unknown, with possibilities ranging from submarines to electrical lines.

"Preparing to talk to otherworldly aliens"

Allan Goodman, a Georgetown University instructor and former CIA analyst, proposes a plan for communicating with extraterrestrials, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and diplomatic immunity for any visiting aliens.

"Champ observed 14 times in 1985" (Lake Champlain, NY/VT)

Joseph W. Zarzynski reports on 14 sightings of "Champ," a creature in Lake Champlain, suggesting it could be a plesiosaur or a new species of wildlife. His research team's findings are to be published in the scientific journal Cryptozoology.

"Channel riddle of drifting boat without a crew"

This piece describes the mystery of the "Annabelle Lee," a motor cruiser found drifting in the English Channel without a crew, baffling authorities.

"1,000 Bigfoot sightings on record"

A letter to the editor defends the existence of Bigfoot, citing scientific literature and Grover Krantz's estimates of a viable population, and arguing that sightings are plausible.

"Mystery of the noise" (Forest of Dean, England)

An engineer and his wife are disturbed by a persistent, low-frequency pulsating noise in their home that only they can hear, leading to an investigation by environmental health officers.

"Scoffers, Believers Abound In Mutilated-Cattle Mystery"

This article revisits the phenomenon of cattle mutilations, detailing reports from Colorado and New Mexico. It discusses official explanations involving predators and natural causes, alongside persistent theories involving cults, UFOs, and government conspiracies. Investigators remain puzzled by the precision of the mutilations and the lack of evidence at many sites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, extraterrestrial encounters, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting diverse accounts and theories, from personal testimonies and scientific investigations to skeptical analyses and conspiracy theories. The magazine aims to inform readers about ongoing mysteries and the various perspectives surrounding them, encouraging critical thinking and further investigation. There is a clear interest in documenting reported incidents and exploring the implications of potential alien contact and government involvement.