UFO Newsclipping Service - 1989 07 - no 240

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service Bulletin, dated July 1989, delves into the multifaceted world of UFO phenomena, featuring a range of articles, reports, and opinions from various sources. The publication, produced by U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, aims to provide a comprehensive look at UFO sightings, research, and the ongoing debate surrounding them.

Latrobe Man Researches 'Ufology' Via Computer

This article introduces Gary Metzler of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, who has developed a deep interest in ufology, particularly since his high school days. A former physics major, Metzler now utilizes computer networks to research the subject. While he claims to have never seen a UFO himself, his fascination was reignited by the television show "UFO Coverup Live." Metzler maintains an open-minded skepticism, acknowledging that while some critics find interstellar travel physically impossible, scientists have only scratched the surface of what is possible. He notes a problem within the ufology field where some investigators become too fixated on a single aspect, hindering open-mindedness. Metzler believes there's a lack of communication, misinformation, and government secrecy surrounding UFOs, even after the deactivation of Project Blue Book in 1969. He theorizes that government secrecy might stem from a desire to avoid mass panic, and suggests that popular culture, like movies such as "E.T." and "Star Wars," may be conditioning people to the possibility of aliens. Metzler also entertains the idea that aliens might not be from outer space but could exist in parallel dimensions or underground. He expresses a desire for a change in the ufology field, lamenting the rising factions and opposing goals that prevent collaboration.

Extraterrestrial Visits

Thomas Weber, president and founder of the UFO Site Center, shares his belief that extraterrestrial visits are related to an impending, monumental natural disaster that will render Earth unable to support life. He posits that Earth's moon will rupture, leading to the termination of surface life and the formation of a ring around the planet, similar to other planets in the solar system. Weber explains this phenomenon through Earth's rotation and its gravitational association with the moon, leading to tidal bulges that, when forces remain applied, will eventually cause a rupture. He believes the timing of these extraterrestrial visits is linked to this pending event and mankind's potential perishing without help.

Greensburg Center Keeping Track Of UFOs

This article profiles Stan Gordon, director of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU) and state section director for MUFON. Gordon's home in Greensburg serves as a well-equipped UFO research center, filled with books, tape recordings, and radio equipment. His interest in UFOs began at age 10. Gordon and his group meticulously collect, categorize, and analyze data on UFO sightings and other unexplained phenomena, including alleged Bigfoot sightings and "space grass." He previously co-founded the Pittsburgh UFO Research Institute and later formed the Westmoreland County UFO Study Group. Gordon notes that while some UFO cases are misidentifications, others remain unexplained. His group receives advance notification from NASA about events that might generate calls and is even notified when the Goodyear Blimp passes through the area. Gordon considers Chestnut Ridge a "window area" for UFOs due to a high number of reports. He also investigates unusual reports like black panther sightings and strange underground sounds. Despite never having seen a UFO himself, Gordon emphasizes the importance of remaining open-minded and collecting data for analysis.

May Celestial Sightings Puzzle New Yorkers

This report details a mass sighting of unidentified objects over Ithaca, New York, on May 20th. Dozens of people reported seeing a large, low-flying object or objects, possibly eight aircraft in formation, between 9 and 10 p.m. The objects were described as having five to eight white lights and an oval or oblong shape, with some seeing red and green lights. Authorities at Tompkins County Airport had no record of such aircraft, and military sources revealed no activity. Comparisons were made to blimps, and some observers heard nothing or a slight humming. Astronomer Carl Sagan, a prominent figure in the area, was unavailable for comment.

Greetings from outer space

This article by George M. Eberhart explores the niche world of UFO and alien-themed postcards. Eberhart, a collector and librarian for the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies, notes the difficulty in finding such postcards, which often appear under categories like Space, Astronomy, or Bizarre. He classifies them into five types: "True" UFOs (photos or drawings of claimed sightings), Allen tourist postcards (showing UFOs visiting U.S. cities), human-made UFOs (rides or toys), cartoon aliens (like those from Gary Larson's "The Far Side" or Jim Davis' Garfield), and movie aliens (from films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind"). Eberhart discusses specific examples, including a German series from Ventia-Verlag, a postcard featuring Paul Villa's photo, and a card depicting a UFO over the San Antonio world's fairgrounds. He also mentions human-made UFOs like Disneyland's "Flying Saucers" ride and various toys. The article highlights the cultural impact of UFOs in media and popular imagination.

A Thought Beam To Other Worlds

This piece by Gene Emery reports on Alan Shawn Feinstein's "Operation Indigo," a project recruiting people to pay $10 to participate in beaming thought waves to extraterrestrial aliens. Over 5,000 people have reportedly signed up. Participants are instructed to repeat specific questions to the sky at a designated time and then record any unusual events for 12 days. Feinstein claims a group will analyze the results for evidence of contact. Don Berliner of the nonprofit Fund for UFO Research criticizes the project as "highly unscientific without known basis in logic or fact."

Flying Saucers

This article, likely from the Anza Valley Outlook, explores UFO sightings in the Anza, California area. It begins with a personal account of a cook at the Backwood's Inn who was told of "light ships" and instructed to find crystals. The author then recounts several recent sightings in the Anza area, including a cigar-shaped vessel near Palomar Mountain, unexplained phenomena on Cahuilla Mountain, and a young girl's repeated sightings. A significant event described is a family of six observing a large craft with blinking lights and smaller objects maneuvering geometrically. Another account details a couple seeing a luminous cigar-shaped object over Lake Hemet. The most recent sighting reported is of a mushroom-shaped luminous craft with beings emerging from it, causing electrical interference. The article speculates on why Anza might be a hotspot for UFO activity, citing topography and sparse population, and notes that most encounters evoke feelings of elation rather than fear. The author encourages readers to share their experiences.

Interest in UFOs grows with time

This article from the Post-Standard features Steve Zalewski of Syracuse, who became interested in UFOs after a personal sighting at age 16. Zalewski has since collected a significant amount of UFO literature, including books, studies, and government documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, which he donated to Onondaga Community College, creating what is described as the first such collection in the country. He believes the federal government is withholding UFO information from the public. Zalewski notes that while movies like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" have prepared the public for such information, the media's focus on sensationalism and hoaxes can overshadow genuine research. He also mentions other reported sightings in the Syracuse area.

UFO conspiracy? Earthlings may not be alone

This article from the Statesman-Journal discusses the possibility of a UFO conspiracy where aliens might be encouraging humans to use more gadgets that produce electromagnetic radiation, thus blocking the monitoring of the universe for signs of life. Dr. James Deardorff, a professor emeritus of atmospheric sciences, notes the high number of reported UFO sightings globally and believes scientists are not taking the possibility of alien visitation seriously enough due to fear of ridicule. Marcus Price, a radio astronomer, complains that electronic interference from daily activities hampers the search for extraterrestrial signals. The article suggests that governments may be aware of UFOs but remain silent to avoid mass panic and to prevent a shift towards universalism that could threaten nationalism. It concludes by suggesting that discovering intelligent guardians from outer space would be a significant event, and that aliens might be keeping humanity "dumb and happy" by clouding the minds of scientists and the public.

THE UFO ENIGMA

This article from the Sunday Republican Magazine explores the diverse world of UFO enthusiasts, from those who claim direct encounters, like "UFO photographer" Ellen Crystall, to serious investigators. Philip Imbrogno, a UFO investigator and high school science teacher, expresses frustration with media hype and sensationalism, which he believes discredit legitimate research. Imbrogno, who investigated the Hudson Valley sightings, notes that while many sightings can be explained by conventional aircraft, some remain unexplained. He discusses his work with J. Allen Hynek and the limitations of Project Blue Book. Larry Fawcett, a police lieutenant and UFO investigator, shares his own sighting and his belief in a government cover-up, citing efforts by Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS) to obtain government documents. The article also touches on the CIA and NSA's alleged involvement and denial of UFO files. Robert Bletchman, national publicity director for MUFON, expresses his conviction that UFOs are alien spacecraft.

Those mysterious lights in the sky often have down-to-earth explanations

This article from the Sunday Republican Magazine examines UFO sightings in the Waterbury, Connecticut area, noting that while many are reported, they often have conventional explanations. It recounts a mid-1960s incident involving hundreds of witnesses seeing glowing lights, later revealed to be a prank involving a miniature hot-air balloon. The article also mentions a sighting of a large, whitish, triangle- or heart-shaped object in Southbury, which turned out to be a group of light planes from Stormville, N.Y., flying in formation.

Those Who Know UFOs Gather In Lincolnton

This report from the Daily Leader covers a gathering of UFO enthusiasts in Lincolnton, North Carolina, hosted by George Fawcett, who has investigated UFO reports for 45 years. Fawcett, now president of the N.C. unit of Mutual UFO Network Inc., has amassed a large collection of UFO documents. The article notes that UFO sightings tend to occur in waves, with the last major one in North Carolina in 1973. Fawcett believes that about half of all Americans believe UFOs are real and is fundraising for a UFO museum. The article also mentions Steve Bond and Susan Lightcap, who reported seeing a silent, fuzzy yellow light hovering above U.S. 64.

UFO: 'That thing wasn't from this earth'

This article from The Oregonian features accounts of UFO sightings and discusses theories about their purpose. Denise's grandfather described a UFO as an upside-down triangle or silver sphere. Brian recounted seeing a light that stopped and moved in an uncharacteristic way. Michael saw a round disk hovering above his house. Dr. James Deardorff, a retired professor of atmospheric science, suggests that aliens may be gradually acclimating humans to their existence. He believes governments may be aware of UFOs but remain silent to avoid mass panic and to prevent a shift towards universalism. The article notes that UFO experiences do not necessarily destroy religious faith, and that some see UFOs as vehicles for spiritual expression.

UFO and God

This article from the Morning News Tribune explores the intersection of UFO beliefs and religious faith. It discusses the Pascagoula UFO incident, where abductees Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker claimed encounters with aliens, and how their experiences did not diminish their belief in God. Bill Clendenon's sighting of a UFO also did not affect his faith. The article presents the view that if UFOs are real, they do not pose a threat to organized religion. It highlights that a significant percentage of Americans believe in UFOs or claim to have seen them. The article also touches on the historical interpretations of UFO-like phenomena in ancient legends and the Bible, and presents the fundamentalist view that debunks UFO reports as anti-Christian. Scholars, however, suggest that UFOs, if proven true, would not threaten religious faith. The article concludes by discussing the "formula" often found in UFO accounts, where advanced beings come to save humanity, and how UFO literature may disguise a deep religious yearning.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service Bulletin include the persistent nature of UFO sightings across different regions and time periods, the ongoing debate between scientific investigation and anecdotal evidence, and the role of government secrecy and media hype in shaping public perception. There is a clear emphasis on presenting a wide range of perspectives, from those who believe in alien visitation and government cover-ups to those who seek rational explanations for unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging open-mindedness and critical thinking, presenting information from various sources without necessarily endorsing any single viewpoint. The articles collectively suggest that the UFO phenomenon remains a compelling and often controversial subject, sparking curiosity and debate among both the general public and dedicated researchers.

This issue of the News Journal, dated May 1, 1989, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, featuring a cover story about UFO club members' beliefs and experiences, alongside articles on Bigfoot, government cover-ups, and various reported sightings from around the world.

UFO Club Members Speak Out

The cover story highlights the strong convictions of UFO club members, particularly those associated with MUFON (Mutual UFO Network Inc.). Charles Flannigan, director of the Escambia-Santa Rosa chapter, recounts his personal transformation from skeptic to believer after witnessing two daylight discs in Indiana in 1952. He asserts that no nation possesses the technologically advanced craft observed. The article notes that the Gulf Breeze sightings have made the local MUFON chapter the largest in the nation. MUFON officials encourage citizens to report any UFO sightings by calling a provided hotline. MUFON members, including Rex and Carol Salisberry and Vicki Lyons, express their conviction in UFOs and a potential government cover-up. They believe that 90 percent of UFO sightings go unreported due to fear of ridicule. Maj. Lou Figueroa of the U.S. Air Force states that the Air Force has not investigated UFOs since 1969, with 'Project Blue Book' concluding no evidence of extraterrestrial UFOs or threats was found.

Public Opinion on UFOs

A survey conducted by The Bulletin in Latrobe, PA, reveals mixed public opinion on UFO existence. Many were unsure or dismissive, with some citing hoaxes or disbelief. However, others expressed curiosity and a willingness to believe. Some respondents, like Scoutmaster David Busija, voiced skepticism, while others, such as Troop 302 members, believed in higher life forms and potential contact.

UFO Investigations and Hotspots

The issue details the work of UFO investigators. John Micklow of Latrobe, a former police officer and UFO investigator for the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), describes the frustrations of investigating sightings, particularly in large, remote areas. He emphasizes the importance of thoroughness and open-mindedness in investigations. Philip J. Klass, a technical journalist and UFO debunker, is featured discussing his role in challenging UFO beliefs, arguing that most sightings have rational explanations. Despite his efforts, believers remain steadfast, with MUFON aiming to answer fundamental questions about UFO existence, propulsion, origin, and potential knowledge gained.

Other hot spots for UFO activity are listed, including Pine Bush, New York; parts of Indiana and Missouri; New Jersey; and New Mexico. International locations like the Gulf Breeze area in Florida, Lake Erie, and the Hudson Valley in New York are also mentioned.

Government Interest and Cover-ups

Revelations suggest historical government interest in UFOs. A memo from Winston Churchill in 1952 ordered a top-secret inquiry into flying saucers over Britain. The Air Ministry's initial response suggested explanations like astronomical phenomena or aircraft, but a later secret document from 1957 indicated the Ministry of Defence could not explain sightings of fast-moving objects over Scotland. MUFON members believe there is an ongoing government cover-up.

Specific Sightings and Incidents

Several specific UFO sightings are reported:

• Indiana, July 12, 1952: Charles Flannigan and others witnessed two daylight discs.
• Gulf Breeze, Florida (since November 1987): Numerous sightings and photographs by a local businessman known as 'Ed'.
• Navarre Beach, Florida, April 7, 1988: Rex and Carol Salisberry saw two disc-like lights.
• Lake Erie, March 4, 1988: A blimp-like object hovered over the lake.
• Werneth Low, 1915: A photograph of an unidentified light.
• UK, July 28, 1952: Winston Churchill's UFO inquiry.
• Cherepovetsk, Russia, April 24, 1989: A large, enigmatic object flew over the city.
• Heywood, England, May 1, 1989: An ambulance crew reported a UFO hovering over their station.
• Southend, England, May 2, 1989: A triangular object was sighted.
• South Woodham Ferrers, England, May 2, 1989: Teenage girls reported a chasing red ball of light.
• Southend, England (various dates in May 1989): Multiple sightings of silver, red, orange, and green lights and oval objects.
• Hartlepool, England, June 3, 1989: A man reported seeing three flying objects.

Bigfoot Investigations

The issue delves into the phenomenon of Bigfoot, with reports from various locations:

• Pikes Peak, Colorado: Bob Briengo, an English teacher, is convinced Bigfoot inhabits the area, citing reports from Green Mountain Falls and collecting hair samples he believes belong to an unknown primate.
• Pullman, Washington: A conference on Bigfoot research featured debates between those who view it as a zoological subject (like WSU anthropologist Grover S. Krantz) and those who believe in extra-zoological or supernatural aspects (like Jon Erik Beckjord).
• Champaign County, Illinois: Sheriff Paul Williams is investigating reports of Bigfoot sightings, including large footprints found near Urbana.
• Coshocton County, Ohio: Bigfoot expert John Green participated in a search for clues, discussing sightings and footprints in the area.
• British Columbia, Canada: John Green, an authority on Bigfoot, has spent 30 years researching the creature, writing five books, and collecting evidence from sightings and tracks worldwide.

Other Strange Phenomena

• Crash Plane Vanishes: Police are searching for a crashed plane that disappeared over marshland near Southport, Merseyside, with speculation it may have ditched in the sea.
• UFO Rings/Corn Circles: Colin Andrews, an electrical expert, is traveling to Tokyo to address an international scientific conference on the phenomenon of cornfield circles, which have appeared in fields across Hampshire.
• Mystery Illness: An epidemic in the Israeli-occupied West Bank in 1983, affecting schoolgirls with symptoms like blindness and discoloration, was attributed to mass hysteria.
• Poisoning of Cattle: In Oregon, authorities are investigating the poisoning deaths of 15 head of cattle, with ranch operators asserting ritualistic mutilation of some animals.
• Ranlo Man's Experience: Oliver Ross of Ranlo claims a rock and a metal cylinder fell from the sky, with the rock dating back to 1941 and the cylinder falling recently. Analysis suggests the rock is not a meteor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent belief in UFOs and extraterrestrial life, often coupled with suspicion of government secrecy. The existence of Bigfoot is also a prominent topic, with ongoing debates about its nature and the validity of research methods. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena and the diverse opinions surrounding them, from fervent believers to skeptical investigators and debunkers. The articles present various accounts and expert opinions without necessarily endorsing one viewpoint over another, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and possibilities.