UFO Newsclipping Service - 1987 01 - no 210

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated January 1987, is dedicated to the serious study and investigation of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The cover story, "Monitoring UFOs is more than a hobby," by Jack Cirl, highlights the dedication of individuals like James Melesciuc of Reading, Massachusetts, the state director of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network). Melesciuc emphasizes the scientific approach taken by MUFON, which aims to provide a focus for reporting sightings and scientifically investigating them.

Key Articles and Features

"Monitoring UFOs is more than a hobby" (Part One & Two)

Jack Cirl's two-part series introduces the world of UFOlogy and the efforts of organizations like MUFON. James Melesciuc explains that MUFON's membership is by invitation only and stresses the importance of backing findings with solid scientific data. He notes that many credible people, including air traffic controllers, pilots, and scientists, are involved in reporting and investigating sightings. The article mentions Barry Greenwood of Stoneham, an assistant state director, who possesses a large collection of UFO material and co-authored "Clear Intent: The Government Coverup of the UFO Experience." Greenwood was also a principal investigator in the "Bentwaters Incident."

The "Bentwaters Incident," occurring on December 27, 1980, near Royal Air Force Base in Bentwaters, England, is detailed. It involved sightings of multi-colored lights, triangular objects, and domestic animals going berserk. The incident gained credibility with the discovery of the "Halt Memoranda," an official USAF memo. The controversy surrounding this incident continues, with limited success in extracting further information from government sources.

Part two of the series addresses the "UFO mystery has been missed" by formal investigations, which failed to prove or disprove claims. Melesciuc criticizes the "supermarket mentality" that sensationalizes UFOs. He argues that many scientists fear a reduction in research funding if UFO investigations are taken seriously. The article discusses the government's alleged withholding of critical data, with requests under the Freedom of Information Act often denied on grounds of national security. MUFON is aware of over 300 documents being withheld.

The "Cash-Landrum UFO case" is presented as an example of government non-responsibility. This incident, occurring on December 29, 1980, involved witnesses seeing a strange machine with a bright light and helicopters, leading to severe burns and long-term physical and psychological damage. The lawsuit filed by the individuals against the government has yet to be resolved.

The article also highlights the credentials of speakers at the 17th annual MUFON Symposium, including researchers, physicists, and professors, indicating a growing legitimacy in the field.

"UFO Controversy: Extraterrestrial visitors"

This section, featuring an excerpt from Ted Schultz, recommends books on the UFO debate. It mentions "UFO's: A Scientific Debate," edited by Carl Sagan and Thorton Page, which presents pro and con arguments from a 1969 symposium. It also notes the "UFO Newsclipping Service" itself as a valuable resource for its sheer volume of reports without theories.

"UFO group avoids being too spacey"

Alice Love's article describes a meeting of MUFON-Metroplex, noting the surprising normalcy and sanity of its members, who include professionals from various fields. Outgoing president Kay West discusses membership goals, while incoming president Jerry Decker highlights the group's focus on training members in documenting sightings and collecting evidence.

"On a mission from Mars"

Hilary Evans, a British research scientist, lectures on "What You Can Learn from Liars and Loonies." He discusses the challenges of weeding out hoaxes and hallucinations in UFO research. Evans shares personal anecdotes, including an encounter with a woman who claimed to be from another planet, and emphasizes that while witnesses may be sincere, their experiences might not always be extraterrestrial.

"Green flash lights sky across Florida"

This report details sightings of a green flash in the sky across Florida, with some residents reporting a loud sound similar to thunder. While some speculate it was a meteorite, others suggest debris from a Soviet rocket. An astronomer believed it was lightning, but a professor from the Florida Fire Ball Patrol identified it as a meteorite entering the atmosphere.

"UFO sonic boom annoys Hudson"

This article recounts residents in North Hudson and Hoboken reporting deafening sounds and a glimpse of a large round object emitting red beams. Police suggested a sonic boom, but the article speculates about extraterrestrial visitors and their potential interest in soil samples. It also mentions a magazine specializing in UFOs sending representatives with extrasensory abilities to the landing site.

"Alexandria man raps government for UFO cover-up"

This piece focuses on Larry W. Bryant, founder of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), who is suing the government for refusing to allow him to place advertisements in military newspapers seeking "whistle blowers" about UFO information. Bryant alleges a government cover-up and claims his activism has negatively impacted his job performance. He believes the government has known more about UFOs than it has revealed, and that this secrecy breeds distrust.

"UFO buff wants museum to land in N.C."

George D. Fawcett, assistant state director and public relations chief for MUFON of North Carolina, proposes building a UFO museum. He cites North Carolina's ranking as fourth in UFO sightings and believes such a museum could attract visitors. Fawcett has been trying to secure investors for the project, which he envisions as a self-supporting tourist attraction.

"Giant 'walnut' UFO shadows jet"

This article reports on a sighting by Kenju Terauchi, a Japan Air Lines pilot, who encountered a giant "walnut-shaped" UFO accompanied by two smaller craft over Alaska. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Air Force confirmed the large UFO appeared on radar screens within five miles of Terauchi's cargo jet. Terauchi concluded the objects were of extraterrestrial origin.

"UFOs aren't out to get us; they are friendly, inquisitive"

This opinion piece argues that UFOs are friendly and inquisitive, not hostile. The author, a former Air Force reservist, suggests that evasive maneuvers by pilots only invite the UFOs to dance. The article references historical sightings and the idea that UFOs contribute to the tabloid industry.

"'Air ship' caused stir in 1897"

This report revisits newspaper accounts from 1897 describing sightings of mysterious "air ships" across the United States. The Wilmington Messenger reported a "brilliant floating mass" in the heavens. The article notes the consistency of these historical sightings with modern UFO reports and suggests that skeptics attribute them to mass suggestion.

"UFO question tough to answer"

This piece reflects on the legacy of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who brought UFO studies into the realm of science. It discusses the difficulty of answering the question "Do you believe in UFOs?" and distinguishes between believing in the existence of unidentified flying objects and believing in extraterrestrial visitation. The article highlights the lack of concrete evidence for the latter and the challenges of scientific investigation due to the anecdotal nature of most reports.

"Jet pilot's report of UFO verified on radar screens"

This article reiterates the story of Captain Kenju Terauchi's UFO sighting over Alaska, confirming that the object appeared on FAA and Air Force radar screens. Investigators concluded the crew was rational and professional, but the origin of the craft remains a mystery.

"No show UFO: Radar recording shows aircraft is still a mystery"

This report details an FAA investigation into a UFO sighting that appeared on radar but failed to register on a radar recording. The FAA interviewed the pilot, Kenju Terauchi, again, but the origin of the craft remains undetermined. The FAA has no systematic procedure for evaluating UFO reports, and the Air Force abandoned such investigations years ago.

"Chrono-log: UFO's missed"

This brief note mentions that the "Translations" section of the December issue (pages 9/10, 11/12) was very dim and that replacement copies may be requested.

"Strange lights seen over Alaska"

This article discusses the sighting of three mysterious craft by a Japan Air Lines pilot over Alaska. The FAA and Air Force confirmed the presence of the objects on radar. The pilot described the largest object as "walnut-shaped" and significantly larger than his Boeing 747.

"Radar recording misses flight of UFO along JAL jetliner"

This article reports on the investigation into the JAL flight 1628 UFO sighting, noting that while the object was detected on radar, a subsequent recording failed to show its signal. The FAA and Air Force confirmed the radar detection but could not determine the object's origin.

"FAA says UFO on radar screen was just a double image of a jet"

This article presents the FAA's explanation for the JAL flight 1628 radar anomaly, stating that it was a "double image of a jet." The FAA maintains that the radar signal was not from an unidentified object but rather a reflection of the JAL jet itself.

"NASA worker tracks UFO reports by pilots"

This piece highlights the work of NASA worker Hal Haines, who has spent years collecting UFO reports from pilots. Haines believes that many UFO sightings are misidentified conventional aircraft, but acknowledges that some remain unexplained. The article also mentions that NASA currently doesn't investigate UFOs but relies on reports from pilots and commercial airlines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the scientific investigation of sightings, and the alleged government cover-up of information. The editorial stance, as reflected in the articles and the publication's purpose, is to present credible reports and encourage serious, scientific inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, while also acknowledging the skepticism and challenges faced by researchers. There is a clear emphasis on witness testimony, radar confirmations, and the pursuit of evidence, even when faced with official denials or lack of cooperation from government agencies. The publication aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives within the UFO community, from dedicated investigators to individuals sharing personal experiences.

This issue of the STANDARD OBSERVER, dated January 7, 1987, with a CR code of S. Gordon, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related unexplained phenomena reported throughout the past year. The cover headline, "UFOs perplexed local experts all through past year," sets the tone for the collection of articles.

UFOs Perplexed Local Experts All Through Past Year

This article, by The Standard Observer, details the work of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), a volunteer research group based in Greensburg. PASU received over 300 reports of sightings from 28 counties in Pennsylvania during 1986, with the majority concerning UFOs, but also including sightings of Bigfoot and other strange creatures. PASU director Stan Gordon notes that while most cases have logical explanations, some remain baffling. The association exchanges information with international researchers and organizations, including MUFON. The article also mentions specific cases from 1986, such as a metallic disc seen over Pittsburgh, military jets chasing a triangular object near Slickville, and sightings near Monroeville and Mt. Pleasant.

JAL Pilot Has Sighting of Eerie Kind

Reporting from Anchorage, Alaska, The Associated Press details a sighting by Japan Air Lines pilot Capt. Kenjyu Terauchi. Terauchi and his co-pilot reported seeing "irregular lights" that looked like a spaceship on a flight from London to Anchorage. FAA spokesman Paul Steucke suggested the lights might be reflections off ice crystals in the atmosphere. Terauchi had previously reported a similar, more substantial sighting in November 1986, where his cargo jet was shadowed by a large object for over 300 miles. Steucke noted that the November sighting did not seem to fit the ice crystal theory, and both cases were under investigation.

Pilot Says His Second UFO Just City Lights

This USA TODAY article from January 14, 1987, provides an update on Capt. Kenjyu Terauchi. Terauchi, a 20-year JAL veteran, explains his second sighting as an optical illusion, concluding it was city lights reflected off ice crystals. He maintains his first sighting in November was a "real UFO" that crew members also saw. Terauchi expresses no fear, stating the apparitions are "not dangerous."

The Galactic Granny and Her Planetary Passion

This article from the SUNDAY STAR, Johannesburg, South Africa (November 16, 1986), profiles Elizabeth Klarer, who claims to have had a relationship with an extraterrestrial named Akon from the planet Meton for over 30 years. Klarer, a former meteorologist and UFO expert, believes Akon will return for her and their son, Ayling, conceived on a spaceship. She describes Meton as a beautiful planet with vast seas, controlled climate, and inhabitants who are vegetarians and vegetarians. Klarer also expresses concern about Earth's potential destruction through nuclear warfare and pollution, stating that "Good planets are hard to find."

Mystery Flying Object Spotted

This report from PULLMAN'S WEEKLY NEWS, Yeovil, England (October 27, 1986), describes a mysterious flying object seen over Musbury. Villagers described it as "out of this world," with aircraft spotter Edward Mellor noting it appeared to get bigger and moved jerkily without noise. Parish council chairman Lawrence Littley described it as a ring of light with brighter points. The object was not identified by air traffic authorities.

UFO Buffs Probe the Outer Limits

Written by Tony Wells for the SUNDAY OBSERVER, Melbourne, Australia (December 28, 1986), this article discusses the work of Pat Gildea of the Victorian UFO Research Society. Gildea investigates hundreds of UFO cases, including one from 1980 where a farmer reported a bell-shaped object that emptied a water tank and left a circular burn mark. The society, formed in the 1950s, also investigates disappearances linked to UFO activity, such as that of pilot Frederick Valentich. Gildea's theory is that UFOs come from "outer space or another dimension," referencing a 1950 FBI memo about recovered "flying saucers" with occupants.

Family Convinced After Sighting

This MAIL article from Surrey, England (November 15, 1986), reports on a sighting by the Harwood family in Haslemere. They observed a large, arc-shaped object with multiple lights flying slowly and silently overhead. Air traffic control at Gatwick Airport reported no aircraft in the area at the time. The family became convinced after seeing the object, especially after learning of a similar report over Kent.

Residents Mystified as Havoc Hits Homes

This KIDDERMINSTER TIMES article (December 11, 1986) describes a strange incident in Kiderminster, England, where residents reported a weird whirring noise, a siren sound, and vibrations, followed by damage to garden fencing. Some residents believe it was an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) or an alien spaceship, while a neighbor suggests it was a whirlwind. A young girl also reported seeing strange objects.

Expert to Probe UFO Sightings

This BRADFORD TELEGRAPH & ARGUS article (December 23, 1986) discusses reports of mysterious objects seen over Bradford, England. Four people described a group of six to eight bright lights flying at high speed and silently. Airport staff reported clear airspace, and the Bradford Council Mobile cleaning team observed the lights, describing them as "planes in formation with bright lights but there was no noise." The Association for Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena plans to investigate.

Several Report Spotting UFO in Mexico City

A MEXICO CITY report from December 18, 1986, states that Mexico City International Airport received numerous calls about an unidentified flying object over the capital. Witnesses described a multi-colored object making a faint buzzing noise as it circled rapidly before shooting off at high speed. The object's shape and duration were not specified. A Pan American Airways jet crew also reported seeing the object.

Couple See a Strange Shape in the Sky

This SHROPSHIRE STAR article (December 20, 1986) recounts a sighting by a Telford couple who saw a "big and round" object in the sky. They described it as dark on the bottom, silver on top, and wavering. RAF Shawbury reported no flying in the area at the time, and police had no reports of unusual sightings.

Translations: Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil

This section includes translations of articles from the VALE PARAIBANO newspaper regarding UFO sightings in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil. Residents reported luminous points and discs returning to the skies. One article mentions that NASA is analyzing photographs of flying discs taken in May 1986, with a representative from the Technology Marketing Analysis Corporation visiting to obtain copies. The presence of UFOs is linked to the existence of life in more advanced phases in the universe.

'Bigfoot' Family Sighted In Area?

This FORTEAN NEWS article (September 4, 1986) reports on alleged Bigfoot sightings in the Northwest Georgia-Northeast Alabama area. David A. Brown described a creature about 7½ feet high with a horrible odor and large eyes. He was adamant it was not a bear. Another report from Walker County describes a tall, slender creature seen by four friends. The article also touches on the difficulty of finding proof and the psychological impact of such encounters.

Sightings Of Creature Claimed By Residents

This GAZETTE article (September 4, 1986) from East Hartford, CT, details reports of a "half-dog, half-rabbit" creature seen in Old Lyme. Witnesses describe an animal with the body of a dog and the head of a rabbit, hopping like a rabbit. Wildlife biologists from the state Department of Environmental Protection state that it's impossible for a dog and rabbit to mate, and no native Connecticut animals fit the description.

Did Bigfoot 'Jinx' Attack TV Station?

This NEWS article (September 18, 1986) from Summerville, GA, discusses a WXIA television report on the Bigfoot story that was repeatedly canceled or blacked out, leading to speculation that Bigfoot might have "jinxed" the station's equipment. A sketch of Bigfoot based on a witness's description is included.

Look Out for Bigfoot - and His Trap

This DAILY COURIER article (October 22, 1986) from Grants Pass, OR, describes a large trap built by a private group in the mid-1960s near Applegate Lake, intended to capture Bigfoot. The trap, which reportedly only caught a bear, is now bolted shut. The article also details hiking trails around Applegate Lake.

Falling Ice Probe After Bomb No.3

This DAILY EXPRESS article (August 31, 1986) reports on a Civil Aviation Authority investigation into "ice bombs" falling from airliners. Three incidents are mentioned, including a block of ice that narrowly missed two youngsters. The CAA believes these are caused by freak atmospheric conditions, likely frozen toilet or galley water.

Lake Monster Hoax Confirmed

An ENTERPRISE article (December 22, 1986) from Beaumont, TX, confirms that a photograph purporting to show a lake monster in Lake Memphremagog was a hoax. Jacques Boisvert of the International Dracontology Society revealed the blurred photograph was fake, possibly using an inflatable monster.

Cries in the Night Rekindle Legend of Area Big Foot

This EVENING NEWS article (October 21, 1986) from Harrisburg, PA, revisits the "Big Foot" prankster incident from the previous year on Pine Hill Road. Residents continue to report hearing strange animal sounds in the woods, with theories ranging from Bigfoot to exotic pets or bobcats. Recordings of the sounds have been made, but identification remains elusive.

'Bigfoot' Book Is Monster

This JOURNAL article (December 9, 1986) from Sioux City, IA, reviews Dave Opfermann's book, "Our Valleys: The Niobrara and Verdigris," which is part of his "Bigfoot Series." The book, initially intended to be 285 pages, grew to 710 pages and covers historical events and unexplained phenomena, including UFO and Bigfoot sightings. Opfermann theorizes that phenomena like Bigfoot are transitory matter influenced by cosmic energy.

Mysterious Bog Slides Into Sea

This CHRONICLE article (December 8, 1986) from Houston, TX, reports on a mysterious moving bog slide in a remote Irish village that slid into the sea. Heavy rains are cited as the cause for the bog, made of wet, spongy land, to move rapidly down a country road and over a cliff.

Invention Could Change Future Energy Output

This DAILY HOME article (December 31, 1986) from Talladega-Sylacauga, AL, profiles James Hudson, an 81-year-old inventor who has applied for a patent for a "linkage for transferring motion." Hudson believes his device can produce an excess of 50 percent energy output and could revolutionize energy use, potentially cutting gas and electric bills. He has contacted various influential figures and organizations about his invention.

Astrology Draws Few, But Big Foot Has Fans

This CHICAGO TRIBUNE article discusses a poll of college students which revealed low faith in astrology but significant belief in space aliens, Bigfoot, and Atlantis. The poll also indicated that students who believe in creationism tend to be more politically conservative and have lower grade-point averages.

Dowsing Leads to Sasquatch, UFOs

This REGISTER-GUARD article (October 21, 1986) from Eugene, OR, profiles Jack Lapseritis, a social scientist and dowser who claims his interest in dowsing has led him to contacts with Sasquatch, UFOs, and "starpeople." Lapseritis is writing a book about his experiences, risking ridicule for his beliefs in these phenomena.

Scientist Helps Plants Reach New Heights with Process Using High-Frequency Sounds

This CHRONICLE article (September 21, 1986) from Houston, TX, describes Dan Carlson's "Sonic Bloom" process, which uses high-frequency sounds and a mineral spray to promote plant growth. Carlson claims his process can solve world hunger, citing a house plant that grew to 1,300 feet. The process is being tested by universities and used in agricultural projects.

Canadian Observers Mystified by 'Flasher' in Sky

This ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT article (October 21, 1986) reports on Canadian observers who reported seeing a "flasher" in the sky. The phenomenon was observed by pilots and ground observers, described as a bright, fast-moving light that made sharp turns. The CAA is investigating, with theories including reflections off ice crystals or atmospheric conditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, encounters with unexplained aerial phenomena, and other paranormal or mysterious events, including Bigfoot sightings and alleged psychic abilities. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, presenting witness accounts, and including investigative efforts by various organizations and individuals, while also acknowledging skepticism and potential hoaxes or misidentifications. There is a clear interest in exploring the unexplained and the possibility of extraterrestrial or other anomalous origins for these events.