UFO Newsclipping Service - 1989 06 - no 239

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, number 239, dated June 1989, is primarily focused on the theme of 'Flying Saucers at the Beach.' The publication is co-edited by Lucius Farish and Rod B. Dyke and is produced by U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE in Plumerville, Arkansas.

Flying Saucers at the Beach

The lead article details several UFO sightings, beginning with an account from Montauk, New York. On the night of the full moon in January, Harriet Joffee and her husband witnessed a large sphere of light that shot straight up and then arced overhead, appearing elliptical with red and green lights and emitting no sound. Mrs. Joffee experienced a feeling of happiness, while her husband felt anxious. The Coast Guard reportedly receives many UFO reports from the area.

Another report from Montauk on January 30 describes Captain David Gaviola and his crew seeing a strange light that appeared as a searching beam, causing their radar to fail. The object was described as square-shaped, then triangular or diamond-shaped, about 150 feet long, and it flipped over before disappearing.

In Southampton, on February 18, Robert and Hasaan Eleazer heard a loud, helicopter-like noise, experienced their TV malfunctioning, and saw a bluish-white outlined object about thirty feet wide floating over their house.

The issue also covers a case in Levittown involving musician James LaFante. He attended a lecture by psychologist Jean Mundy, who works with people claiming contact with extraterrestrials. LaFante later experienced a strange atmospheric change and heard a deep helicopter-like sound before seeing a large, block-long object with four sets of lights. The following night, he and a friend witnessed a similar object and then a brilliant burst of fiery red light shoot from an opening in the sky towards their car.

Other Sightings and Investigations

Further reports include Dorothy Derr's sighting of two crafts with white lights hovering at low altitude near Eagle Creek, Oregon, on March 24. Her father, Willis Mitchell, had a similar experience in 1979.

The publication also features articles discussing the broader UFO phenomenon. One piece highlights the work of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), an organization that investigates UFO sightings. Mark Anderson, a field investigator for MUFON, is quoted stating that while most UFO sightings can be explained, some remain unidentified.

Another article discusses the work of Linda Moulton Howe, a filmmaker and author who links livestock mutilations and human abductions to alien life forms. She claims the government has kept a lid on its knowledge of UFOs.

There are also reports from various locations like Colorado, North Carolina, and Connecticut, detailing cattle mutilations, strange lights, and radar anomalies. The article 'UFOs spotted in Trumbull sky' by Dave Pelland discusses a sighting and the search for other witnesses. The 'Post-Telegram' reports on UFO sightings in Bridgeport, CT, with the airport manager attributing them to pilots playing pranks.

UFO Group Checks Sightings

A section titled 'UFO group checks sightings' details how residents are turning to MUFON to explain incidents. It mentions the case in Fyffe, Alabama, where police officers reported seeing a peculiar flying object. The article highlights MUFON's role in gathering data and interviewing witnesses, emphasizing that many people who report UFOs are sincere and educated.

Abducted by Aliens? Amazed by a UFO?

This section announces an exhibit by the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies in Syracuse, New York. Steve Zalewski, who has studied UFOs for 16 years, has invited the center to present an exhibit on UFOs and alien encounters, including discussions on abduction cases.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of UFO sightings, the challenges in identifying them, the potential involvement of extraterrestrial life, and the skepticism or secrecy from official government sources. MUFON is consistently presented as a key organization for investigating and documenting these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging that while many sightings can be explained, a significant portion remains unexplained and warrants further investigation. There is an underlying implication that official channels may not be fully transparent or responsive to public concerns about UFOs.

This issue of the Chronicle, dated March 19, 1989, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO team cites rise in abduction claims," highlighting a surge in reports of people claiming to have been abducted by extraterrestrial beings. The magazine explores the growing phenomenon of UFO sightings and abductions, presenting perspectives from various investigators, authors, and witnesses.

UFO Team Cites Rise in Abduction Claims

The lead article by Dwight Silverman details the activities of the San Antonio chapter of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), a 2,100-member organization dedicated to investigating UFO phenomena. Chapter President Thomas Deuley notes an unprecedented increase in reports, with many individuals claiming not only to have seen strange craft but also to have been abducted and examined by creatures. These creatures are often described as having enlarged heads, grayish skin, and huge, slanted, oval eyes. The victims frequently recall 'missing time' and suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, often requiring hypnosis to unlock memories.

MUFON, celebrating its 20th anniversary, finds its resources stretched thin by the influx of abduction claims. Walter Andrus, president and co-founder, states that the organization has received so many reports that a precise number is difficult to ascertain. Two New York-based writers, Whitley Strieber (author of "Communion: A True Story") and Budd Hopkins (author of "Missing Time"), have received over 7,500 letters from alleged abductees. Strieber, who claims to have been abducted by 'the visitors,' and Hopkins, who helped Strieber understand his experiences, have become antagonists within the UFO community.

MUFON investigators follow a systematic approach, first seeking simple explanations and then contacting authorities like airports and military bases. Andrus estimates that 10 to 20 percent of sightings remain unexplained. The abduction cases often involve 'missing time,' 'screen memories' of animals, and physical evidence like scars or burn marks. Some reports include sexual examinations and the discovery of foreign objects in the brain, with Strieber himself claiming three such spots in his head.

Regressive hypnosis is a primary investigative tool, though skeptics question its suggestibility. Strieber advocates for hypnosis as a therapeutic tool, not for investigation, citing his own experience where his 'output' became structured according to his expectations. Hopkins, however, believes in getting to the 'bottom' of cases, suggesting Strieber was speculating rather than investigating. Strieber's book "Communion" is credited with bringing a wave of abduction cases to MUFON's attention.

Strieber has avoided becoming a 'guru' by directing people to self-formed support groups. He speculates that his 'visitors' might be from a parallel universe or dimension, possibly inspiring ancient myths of fairies and spirits. Ed Conroy, a San Antonio writer, is publishing a book investigating Strieber's claims. Conroy believes the controversy stems from the UFO community's focus on 'nuts and bolts' technology and professional jealousy.

The article notes the historical context of UFO sightings, with the 'modern wave' beginning after World War II. It mentions government investigations like Project Blue Book, Project Sign, and Project Grudge. The Condon Report in 1969 concluded UFOs were not worth studying, but dissatisfied researchers, noting that 19 percent of Condon's cases were unexplained, led to the formation of MUFON.

The first typical abduction-and-examination story emerged in 1966. The article touches on the skepticism surrounding abductions, contrasting with the growing body of photographic and physical evidence. The psychological profession is beginning to acknowledge abduction claims, with a symposium planned.

UFO Sightings in Trumbull and Gulf Breeze

Two separate reports detail recent UFO sightings. In Trumbull, Connecticut, Douglas Strickland is seeking information from residents who witnessed unidentified flying objects on a Thursday night. He described seeing a cluster of three red and white lights that transformed into a blue boomerang shape with soft blue lights. The Trumbull Police Department received numerous calls reporting a UFO. Strickland is discounting the possibility of a hoax due to the complexity and cost involved.

In Gulf Breeze, Florida, artist Lynn Soley reported seeing multiple UFOs with flashing red, yellow, green, and blue lights, and a white light. Her husband, a printer, noted the unusual colors of the lights. Her brother-in-law, who has Navy radar experience, also could not identify the objects. They observed the objects moving slowly and disappearing, with a large white 'star' vanishing simultaneously.

UFO Observers Must Be Weary

This piece from Fort Payne, Alabama, discusses the media attention surrounding a UFO sighting over Fyffe, Alabama. It highlights how the phenomenon attracted national and international media, including television shows that allegedly fabricated reenactments. The article criticizes the sensationalism and ridicule often associated with UFO reports, suggesting that witnesses may become hesitant to share their experiences.

'Radon Gas' Theory for 1970s Sightings

Professor Michael Persinger of Laurentian University proposes that UFO sightings in Carman, Manitoba, during the 1970s were not alien spacecraft but intense energy associated with minor earthquakes. He suggests this energy, including radon gas, could be linked to cancer. Bob Diemert, who claims to have seen UFOs over 100 times, disputes this theory, believing the objects were solid matter. Howard Bennett, publisher of Valley Leader, also questions Persinger's explanation.

Believing in the Unbelievable

This article from England explores the persistent belief in UFOs despite skepticism. It mentions claims of American radio hams hearing the space shuttle Discovery report being buzzed by 'alien craft.' The piece discusses theories of a government cover-up and the work of UFO investigators like Gary Rowe, who believes in a logical, 'nuts and bolts' explanation for most sightings. Rowe uses sensitive equipment to measure magnetic fields, electro-static, and sound. The article also touches upon missing persons cases and the possibility of extraterrestrial origins for humanity.

Greek Migrant Claims Extraterrestrial Origin

Eftimos (Tim) Tutungis, a wealthy Greek migrant in Australia, claims to be from the planet Arakus, 3000 years in the future. He states his soul landed in an earthling's body after a spacecraft accident. Tutungis attributes his business success to his belief that 'whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe... it can achieve.' He is developing a 'gentleman's country residence' with elements of Ancient Greece and plans to write a book on making a million dollars.

Secrets from Outer Space

This section compiles several accounts of UFO encounters and related phenomena. It includes the story of a bricklayer who witnessed a flying saucer land and a column descend from it in 1955. Air Chief Marshal Lord Dowding is quoted supporting the existence of UFOs, suggesting they come from an extraterrestrial source. A report from Stanmore, Middlesex, in 1984 details police observing a circular object with domes and flashing lights. Soviet Navy Vice Admiral M. M. Krylor is cited stating the UFO problem is 'extremely serious.' The section also mentions the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich in 1978 after reporting a UFO.

Caves 'UFO Passage'

Dr. Jan Pajak, a Dunedin scientist, suggests that unusual tubular caves discovered near Nelson, New Zealand, may be responsible for UFO sightings. He believes these caves are 'passages' created by 'magnocrafts,' a type of magnetically propelled spacecraft that other civilizations have already developed. Pajak is seeking information to help build a magnocraft on Earth, which he claims will have capabilities to fly underground and create glassy tunnels. He also notes that former UFO landing sites are often populated by mushrooms forming 'fairy rings.'

Peace Talks with Aliens Claims Book

Timothy Good, author of a new paperback, claims that governments have been covering up the frequency and intentions of extraterrestrial visitors. He suggests that Southend, England, is a 'cosmic crossroads' for UFO activity. Good asserts that aliens are 'peacefully inclined' and cites an incident over Southend in 1954 where Flight Lieutenant James Salandin reported seeing three unidentified objects.

Cattle Mutilations with Significant Evidence

This report from Arkansas details a cattle mutilation case where five pregnant cows were found dead, three of them mutilated. Dr. John Altshuler, a hematologist, analyzed tissue samples and found evidence of a surgical procedure possibly using high-temperature heat, resulting in 'liquifactive necrosis' and 'coagulative necrosis.' Notably, there was no blood found in the mutilated areas, and no signs of struggle or vehicle tracks. The analysis suggests the cuts were made rapidly with a precise cutting instrument, possibly a laser, though the technology for such a procedure in an isolated area is questioned. The report contrasts this with human sacrifice cases and discusses the difficulty in explaining the absence of blood.

Transcript of a Mutilation Study

This section provides a detailed transcript of Dr. John Altshuler's microscopic analysis of tissue samples from a mutilated cow. He describes 'vacuolar changes' indicating tissue cooking or exposure to high temperatures, resulting in 'liquifactive necrosis.' Altshuler emphasizes that the absence of blood in the mutilated tissue, especially in a non-burned area, is highly unusual and cannot be explained by trauma alone. He suggests that the process was rapid and involved high heat, possibly from a laser, but cannot definitively identify the apparatus used.

Bigfoot Hunters Scour Area

Two Bigfoot investigators, Art Kapa and Doug McCoy, are investigating large footprints found in Lost Nations, Michigan. They believe the 23-inch prints are not a hoax, citing evidence of toe and ball movement and signs of sliding. They are offering a reward for proof of a hoax. The Hillsdale County Sheriff's Department and a DNR officer investigated the tracks, with the DNR officer discounting them as a prank.

A Strange Series of Events

This editorial discusses a series of cattle mutilation incidents in Hempstead County, Arkansas, dating back to 1979. It highlights the lack of clues and the difficulty in explaining how large animals could be taken down without a struggle. The article mentions Linda Moulton Howe's documentary "A Strange Harvest" and her theory of government experimentation or cover-up related to UFO activity. It suggests that the current mutilation case may be a breakthrough in identifying the equipment used.

Boggy Creek 'Monster' Still Stalks Fouke Folks

This article revisits the legend of the Boggy Creek 'monster' in Fouke, Arkansas. Despite skepticism, sightings of the large, hairy creature continue to be reported to the Miller County sheriff's office. The article recounts past incidents, including a film made about the monster, and notes that while many residents are skeptical, the legend persists and is celebrated with an annual 'Boggy Creek Day.'

Sea Monster Fan Club Proves Serious Group

This piece reports on the inaugural meeting of the B.C. Cryptozoology Club in Vancouver, Canada. The club, which investigates unexplained land and sea creatures, attracted academics and professionals. Professor Paul LeBlond of the University of B.C. discussed the scientific reasons for studying cryptozoology, citing the discovery of the megamouth shark as an example. The article notes the challenges of proving the existence of cryptids and the need for a sense of humor in the field.

Mysterious Blob Falls from Sky, Solidifies

In Islamorada, Florida, a gardener witnessed a mysterious blob fall from the sky, bubble, and then solidify into a foam-like mass. Police were called, and the substance was taken into custody. The article speculates on its origin, ruling out typical aircraft waste disposal.

Poisoning of Range Cattle Investigated

In La Pine, Oregon, a task force is investigating the poisoning deaths of over 26 head of cattle, some of which ranchers claim were mutilated. The cattle are believed to have been killed by poisoned grain. The investigation involves multiple law enforcement agencies, and authorities are keeping some information confidential to catch the perpetrators.

Unidentified Falling Ice

A chunk of ice the size of a volleyball crashed through the roof of a house in Portland, Oregon, during a thunderstorm. Meteorologists suggest it likely formed on an airplane passing through the storm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, primarily UFOs and alleged extraterrestrial encounters. There's a strong emphasis on eyewitness accounts, investigative efforts by organizations like MUFON, and the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics. The issue also touches upon related mysteries such as cattle mutilations, Bigfoot sightings, and unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these topics, presenting evidence and theories without outright dismissal, while acknowledging the skepticism and ridicule that often accompany such subjects. The inclusion of scientific analysis in the cattle mutilation case and the academic involvement in the cryptozoology club suggest a move towards more rigorous investigation of these phenomena.