UFO Newsclipping Service - 1989 09 - no 242

Magazine Overview

Title: U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE
Issue: Number 242
Date: September 1989
Publisher: U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the U.F.O. Newsclipping Service delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring articles on government secrecy, eyewitness accounts, and investigations by dedicated organizations.

Alexandria Man Gets UFOric About His CAUS

This article profiles Larry Bryant, a civil servant and the Washington liaison for Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS). Bryant dedicates his spare time to filing federal lawsuits to compel the government to release information on UFOs. He has been involved in this pursuit since 1958 and maintains an extensive personal archive of UFO-related documents. Bryant recounts his employer's dissatisfaction with his off-duty activities, which led to a low performance rating in 1985, an action he fought through the courts, ultimately setting a precedent for federal employees' right to sue their employers. Despite the challenges, Bryant remains committed to uncovering government UFO data, believing that proof of their existence is hidden in secret files. He suggests the government conceals this information due to the profound social and scientific ramifications.

Believers: 'Exposing' the UFO Coverup

This piece reports on the first meeting of the mid-Peninsula chapter of the UFO Awareness Society in Foster City. The society aims to provide a forum for open discussion of UFO experiences, free from ridicule. Attendees generally believe in the existence of UFOs and a long-standing government coverup. One member anonymously claimed that hundreds of high-level officials have been killed or jailed for knowing too much about the "UFO coverup." The society screened a video titled "UFO Coverup," featuring a man claiming to be an ex-government official who alleged that the U.S. government has been secretly working with aliens on a project called MJ12 since the time of Harry Truman. The video also suggested that an alien has been a guest of Washington since 1988, assisting with technology and the potential formation of an interplanetary government. The aliens are described as small, with large eyes, no teeth, and elastic bodies. The article notes the society's efforts to make information available and mentions their invention, the "UFO alert," a device to detect magnetic changes attributed to UFOs.

UFO Investigator Thinks Craft Likely Landed Near Turtle Lake

This article details the investigation by Don Johnson, North Dakota's UFO investigator, into a potential UFO landing near Turtle Lake. Farmers discovered holes and large round markings in a field, which Johnson believes are evidence of a UFO landing. He describes circular bare spots, spike-like imprints, and holes dug into the soil. Johnson, who has been investigating UFO phenomena for 15 years, notes that local authorities and the Air Force did not appear interested in the findings. The base suggested that cattle not be fed hay from the area due to potential radiation contamination. Johnson is preserving the site for further research and is affiliated with MUFON.

UFO's: A Mysterious Phenomenon—Part III: Local Man and Woman May Have Been UFO 'Abductees'

This is the third part of a series exploring UFO phenomena. It introduces the concept of "UFO abductions," a fourth category of UFO experiences beyond "close encounters." The article discusses how abductees often have no memory of the event, experiencing "missing time" and severe emotional distress, often recalled through hypnosis. It highlights the similarities in abduction reports, which skeptics like Philip F. Klass attribute to a shared cultural background influenced by media. The piece mentions the famous 1961 case of Betty and Barney Hill. It also presents an account from a Richmond County man who, with his wife, experienced a sighting and possible abduction, though their memories of the event differ significantly. The writer also shares his own experience of seeing a UFO in 1981, describing it as a row of lights that later appeared as a cigar-shaped object.

UFO's: A Mysterious Phenomenon—Part IV: George Fawcett Is 'Dean' Of UFO Experts In State

This article focuses on George D. Fawcett, a leading UFO investigator in North Carolina and the newly appointed MUFON-NC state director. Fawcett has dedicated years to researching UFOs, amassing a vast collection of data in file cabinets and scrapbooks, with the hope of opening a UFO museum. He experienced his first UFO sighting in college and has been actively collecting information ever since. The article notes Fawcett's research into UFOs and their connection to water bodies, power plants, and nuclear facilities. It mentions a 1952 Look magazine article that highlighted a correlation between UFO reports and energy installations. Fawcett's work includes investigating sightings at various nuclear plants and compiling reports on UFOs in North Carolina. He emphasizes that while many sightings are explainable, a significant percentage remain unidentified.

UFO's: A Mysterious Phenomenon—Part V: Some UFOs Are 'Part Of Spacecraft'

This installment continues the series on UFO phenomena, focusing on the work of Henry H. Morton, a MUFON investigator from Wadesboro, North Carolina. Morton, along with George D. Fawcett, believes that abduction reports are credible due to their striking similarities. The article details Morton's investigation into the Patrick Eudy case from 1979, where Eudy claimed to have been abducted. Morton also recounts his own close encounter experience in 1974, where he and others witnessed a large, dome-topped UFO with flashing lights near Lake Norman. The article also touches upon the alleged crash of a UFO near Kecksburg, Pennsylvania, in 1965, which Gordon's organization, PASU, is still investigating.

Air Force Experts Claim 'Saucers' Are Layers of Air

This news report from 1952 discusses the Air Force's explanation for unidentified objects detected on radar screens over Washington, D.C. Maj. Gen. John A. Samford stated that these "Whatzits" were likely layers of cold air within warmer air, known as temperature inversions, which can cause radar anomalies. While acknowledging that about 400 out of 2,000 reported UFO sightings remain unexplained, Samford asserted that there was no indication of a threat from foreign nations or unknown aerial vehicles. The Air Force was investigating ways to better track these phenomena, including the use of specialized cameras.

UFO Group: Is Something Out There?

This article introduces Stan Gordon, founder and director of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU). Gordon, an electronics technician with 30 years of experience studying UFOs, has amassed a large file of reports on UFO sightings, creature reports, and other anomalies. PASU investigates these occurrences, aiming to collect scientific data and raise public awareness. Gordon notes that while most sightings have natural explanations, some remain unexplained, prompting further wonder. The article highlights common characteristics of Pennsylvania sightings, such as localized power failures and specific UFO shapes (cigar, triangular, etc.). Gordon suggests that UFOs may have multiple origins, not necessarily extraterrestrial.

Man Claims to Have Seen UFO in Lincolnton

This brief report from Gastonia, NC, details a sighting by Paul Moore in Lincolnton, who claims to have seen a triangular-shaped object, the size of a Stealth bomber, heading toward the McGuire Nuclear Plant substation. Moore described the object as reddish-brown and descending at a 45-degree angle. His sighting is noted as similar to reports collected by investigators in Pennsylvania, and it is mentioned in the context of over 829 UFO sightings compiled in North Carolina by MUFON.

UFOs Not Alien To Lake Norman

This article by Linda Stuart explores the connection between UFOs and large bodies of water, power plants, and nuclear facilities, citing research by George D. Fawcett. Fawcett's work includes a publication titled "UFOs Continue to Visit Nuclear Energy Sites," which discusses a 1952 Look magazine article linking UFO reports to energy installations. The article mentions specific sightings near nuclear plants and discusses the concern this raises about UFOs monitoring these sites. It also recounts a sighting near Lake Norman in 1968 of a dome-topped UFO with flashing lights and a humming sound, and another in 1974 of a large, inverted saucer-like object. The article concludes by noting that while many UFO sightings are explainable, a significant percentage remain unidentified.

Sightings And Encounters

This piece by Linda Stuart discusses the growing interest in UFOs and the work of MUFON. It highlights a gathering of MUFON members in Lincolnton, NC, where reported sightings were plotted on a map. The article touches upon the complexity of UFO sightings, citing a case involving a couple in Lakeland, Florida, who experienced animal agitation, power outages, and observed a craft with occupants. The author concludes by acknowledging the vastness of the world and the many unanswered questions surrounding UFOs.

Centennial Scrapbook: Air Force Experts Claim 'Saucers' Are Layers of Air

This archival piece from July 30, 1952, reports on the Air Force's explanation for radar contacts over Washington, D.C. Maj. Gen. John A. Samford attributed the sightings to temperature inversions, where layers of cold air create radar anomalies. He stated that while many UFO reports are credible, there is no indication of a threat. The Air Force was exploring methods to better track unexplained aerial phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFOs, the alleged government coverup of information, and the dedication of individuals and organizations like CAUS, MUFON, and PASU in investigating these phenomena. There's a consistent emphasis on eyewitness accounts, the similarities found in abduction reports, and the ongoing debate between skepticism and belief. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting evidence and accounts while acknowledging the unexplained aspects of UFO sightings. The publication aims to inform the public about UFOs and encourage further inquiry.

This collection of articles, primarily from July and August 1989, covers a range of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, crop circles, and cryptid reports. The articles are drawn from various newspapers across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, reflecting a global interest in these mysteries.

Denver UFO Society: Better Than Television

This article from the Rocky Mountain News (August 5, 1989) by Alan Dumas explores the Denver UFO Society, a group founded in 1957. Dumas describes the members' fervent belief in extraterrestrial visitors, with some sharing personal accounts of encounters, alien nourishment, and even rides on star cruisers. The society operates on a principle of open-minded listening, without judgment. The article highlights the compelling nature of space mysteries for those who find Earth life disappointing. It mentions members like Verda, who claims aliens teach her their ways, Elsie, who has seen aliens since childhood, and Mildred, who finds the society more engaging than television. Society president Ken shares a recent sighting of a saucer disguised as a cloud. The main speaker, Ron, discusses messages from Commander Apollo of the Orion Council of Light, who allegedly believes Mikhail Gorbachev was sent to Earth to bring peace. The article notes that many members are ordinary people seeking meaning and importance in their lives through their belief in aliens. Merle shares a personal experience of seeing a light in the sky, which he interpreted as a sign from aliens.

Object May Have Been Rocket (Evening Post, Charleston, SC, July 18, 1989)

This report by Terry Joyce discusses a mysterious object seen in the skies over the Lowcountry early Sunday morning. The object is speculated to be Soviet space junk or a meteor shower. Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Eric Bishop of NORAD suggests it might have been a Soviet rocket body that impacted the Atlantic Ocean. He mentions that a newspaper in Kalamazoo, Michigan, also inquired about space junk. The object was reportedly seen heating up as it re-entered the Earth's atmosphere. It was identified as a piece of the Soviet 2030 Cosmos series of satellites. Ernest R. Banz of Summerville described the sighting as "something like a big 4th of July sky-rocket," colorful and sparkling. Other witnesses, including members of the Summerville Bassmasters fishing club, also reported seeing the object.

Mysterious Circles in British Fields Spook the Populace (The Wall Street Journal, August 28, 1989)

This article by Craig Forman details the phenomenon of mysterious, near-perfect circles of flattened wheat appearing in southern England. The circles, some as large as 100 feet in diameter, appear overnight and have baffled investigators. Theories range from helicopters and magnetic forces to alien ships. A mysterious white substance found near some circles has not been identified. The Queen has reportedly questioned Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher about the circles. The precision and number of the circles, with over 250 recorded in the year, have dispelled hoax theories. Farmers and scientists are exploring various explanations, including mad hedgehogs, buck deer, mysterious whirlwinds, insect infestations, viruses, or over-fertilization. Edley Ware, a farmhand, suggests UFOs or "the bloody Yanks" might be responsible. Colin Andrews, co-author of "Circular Evidence," proposes a rotating field of high energy, possibly from an intelligence. Terence Meaden, a meteorologist, attributes the circles to whirlwinds. The article notes that the phenomenon is particularly concentrated in Wessex.

Weird media springs up under glasnost (The Tennessean, August 11, 1989)

This article discusses the emergence of unusual and sensationalist media content in the Soviet Union following glasnost. Stories about headless aliens, UFO invasions, and a "huge hairy creature" are being reported in official Soviet media, including the Communist Party's newspaper, Socialist Industry. Alan Chumak, a mystic, gained popularity by "charging" water and other items on television. The article notes the historical Soviet fascination with the occult and fantastic, which is now finding more exposure. It details reports of aliens with no heads, egg-shaped fluorescent objects, and a large, hairy creature in the Volga basin. The official news agency TASS has also reported on a UFO landing, though later attributing a burned spot to a haystack fire.

UFO! Criswell Road Family Sees Bright Lights, Mushroom-Shaped Object Hovering in Sky (Eagle, Butler, PA, September 2, 1989)

This report by Maria Kline describes a sighting by residents of Butler Township, Pennsylvania, of a bright light on a mushroom-shaped object hovering in a field. Two smaller objects with red lights reportedly flew from the main object before all three "shot off to the left." Unexplained lights were also reported in Cambria and Westmoreland counties. Stan Gordon, director of the UFO hotline, noted that while many reports are misidentifications, this sighting involved a bright illuminated object that moved unusually. The Hahns also observed military-type jets circling the area shortly after the sighting, a phenomenon Gordon suggests often occurs after UFO sightings. Gordon states that the military continues to investigate UFOs at a high security level, despite public research ceasing in 1969.

Lake Eyre spaceship lake photo UFO marks (Sunday Times, Perth, W.A., Australia, July 16, 1989)

This article presents a dramatic photograph of UFO-type markings on the bed of Lake Eyre, released 10 years after it was taken. Pilot Lewis Brice photographed the markings in January 1979. A passenger, Jeff Findley, recalled the incident and produced the slide after seeing a TV program about similar markings in a British cornfield. The markings, described as regular clockface-like with a central point, were photographed from about 30 meters above the lake. Findley believes the markings were caused by "some terrific pressure of something taking off." Mr. Brice described the markings as "little heaps of sand in pink water." He noted that he flew over the area again weeks later but never saw the markings again. Mr. Warren Bonython, a Lake Eyre expert, suggested the white patches were consistent with the crystallization of salt in shallow water on objects.

Crop Revolution 10 Years On (Country Life, England, July 6, 1989)

This article by Ralph Noyes details the increasing number and complexity of crop circles appearing in England, particularly in Hampshire and Wiltshire. Since 1980, nearly 600 circles have been reported, often forming in complex groups or patterns. Noyes highlights the precision and geometrical nature of the circles, with crops flattened in a distinct swirl but remaining undamaged. He questions the cause and purpose of these formations, noting the variety of patterns and the apparent increase in their occurrence and elaboration over time. The article mentions theories involving electromagnetism, viruses, crop spraying, and UFOs. A "White Crow" operation, a week-long watch in Cheesefoot Head, aimed to catch a circle forming but did not succeed. However, inexplicable sounds were heard, and a new type of ringed circle was found nearby. The author appeals for information from readers who may know of circles in other localities.

Ivan & UFOs (The Tennessean, August 11, 1989)

This article, likely a continuation or related piece to the "Weird media springs up under glasnost" article, discusses the growing interest in UFOs and the paranormal in the Soviet Union. It mentions reports of aliens, flying machines, and ESP. The article highlights the unlikely platform of the Communist Party's newspaper, Socialist Industry, for such stories. It details specific reports, including aliens with no heads and a large, hairy creature. The article also touches upon the idea of a "space seed" sent to Earth to bring peace, possibly referencing Mikhail Gorbachev.

Circles Run Rings Round Experts (Hampshire Chronicle, August 4, 1989)

This article discusses the concern of Queen Elizabeth and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher over the increasing number of mysterious flattened circles in crops in southern England. The Ministry of Defence is investigating, with some circles appearing in sensitive military areas. Over 200 circles have been found in the current year, more than double the previous year. The book "Circular Evidence" by Pat Delgado and Colin Andrews explores various theories, including UFOs. Delgado notes that the crops are bent near the roots but not broken, and the stems harden again. He expresses concern about the spread of the phenomenon. The book also mentions reports of bright blue flashes from circles and a UFO sighting that coincided with the appearance of circles. The authors have presented their findings to the Queen and Mrs. Thatcher, who have acknowledged their interest. They are seeking government cooperation for access to military sites for investigation.

Woman sees mystery object in night sky (County Press, August 4, 1989)

This brief report describes a sighting by Dorrie Smith of Wootton, England, of a "brilliant white object" in the night sky. She described it as completely round with a mass of lights and stated it was not a star or an aircraft. Island police had not received other reports from the area.

Mystery object in sky (Aire Valley Target, August 24, 1989)

At least 15 people have reported seeing an unusual object in the sky over the Aire Valley. The UFO Independent Network is investigating reports, including one from an official at Yeadon Airport who saw a "brilliant body" the size of a moon. Reports suggest phenomena have been occurring since April. The network is investigating the phenomenon.

UFOs and fortune tellers - look to the Reporter for the future (Solent Reporter, August 11, 1989)

This article reports on UFO sightings over the Solent. Retired serviceman Drew Dickson and his family witnessed two "mystery objects" for 25 minutes, which he filmed. He confirmed they were not aircraft or weather balloons and could not be traced on radar. Dickson stated, "I'm not saying it was something from space, but as they didn't show up on radar they must have been very, very strange objects indeed."

No one stays overnight in ruined city, islanders say (The Associated Press, August 26, 1989)

Islanders say a curse affects the 700-year-old ruined city of Nan Mahdol, known as the Reef of Heaven, in Micronesia, preventing anyone from staying overnight. A German governor reportedly died mysteriously after staying there. The city is a major tourist attraction, featuring stone megaliths weighing up to 50 tons, built on 92 artificial islands. The method of construction and the origin of the stones remain a mystery.

Mysteries abound in Antelope Valley (Antelope Valley Press, July 16, 1989)

This article explores the history of strange phenomena in the Antelope Valley, including legends of a devil-created monster in Lake Elizabeth, Bigfoot sightings, UFO visits, and ghosts. The legend of the Lake Elizabeth monster dates back two centuries, with accounts of its creation by Satan and its eventual flight and alleged shooting by ranchers. The article also details numerous Bigfoot sightings in the area, leading to the creation of the California Bigfoot Organization (CBFO). Several UFO reports are also mentioned, with some residents investigating for organizations like the UFO Research Center For E.T. Studies.

Giant Beast Seen (Forteana News, June 25, 1989)

This report from Alturas, California, describes Ken Saim's sighting of a giant, hairy, man-like creature outside a house on the Fort Bidwell Paiute Indian Reservation. Saim described it as large, dark, hairy, with silver eyes, moving fast and seeming to glide. His cousin, Neasha Comanche, found footprints believed to be from a baby Bigfoot. A Bigfoot expert from the Crypto Zoology Museum in Malibu was called to investigate, though the sheriff expressed doubt about Bigfoot's presence in the county.

Betting on a Bigfoot (The Province, June 25, 1989)

This article by Scott Burrows focuses on Grover Krantz, an anthropologist known as "Mr. Bigfoot," who has studied the creature for 20 years. Krantz has collected 85 plaster casts of giant footprints. The article discusses a symposium of the International Cryptozoological Society where members shared reports and papers on Bigfoot. John Green, author of several books on squatchology, notes the human need to believe in mythological creatures but asserts the reality of sightings. Krantz has profiled the male Sasquatch as around eight feet tall, weighing over 800 pounds, with 17-inch feet, and the female as seven feet tall with 14-inch feet. He describes the creature as a primate with no speech, tools, or social activities. Skeptics like Bob Porter question the validity of sightings, while acknowledging the existence of "kooks" who discredit real research.

Faulkner County sheriff's office suspects pigs' deaths act of cult (Arkansas Gazette, August 5, 1989)

This report by Tyler Treadway details the bizarre deaths of 12 pigs on a farm in Faulkner County, Arkansas. Authorities suspect the killings, which involved mutilation and apparent blood draining, may be the work of a satanic cult. The farm owner, Artis Davis, reported that many pigs were killed, mutilated, or disappeared. Deputy Ken Kelso of the Sheriff's Department noted the lack of blood at the scene, making the satanic cult theory a possibility. Davis stated that some pigs had their legs cut off and puncture marks around their necks.

Nessie's Back In Business - Again! (Sunday Post, Dundee, Scotland, June 4, 1989)

This brief report states that a group of English tourists on a pleasure cruiser claim to have seen the Loch Ness Monster. A sonar trace on the boat "Caledonian Queen" detected a giant shape about 300 feet down in the loch. The boat's owner, Norman McKenzie, confirmed the sighting using a new color sonar machine, describing the shape as a "40 foot long blue blob."

Ogopogo: Special status on tap for Ogopogo? (The Province, August 23, 1989)

Kelowna city council is seeking provincial and federal government assistance to protect the legendary lake monster Ogopogo, considering it an endangered species. Mayor Jim Stuart expressed concern that someone might endanger the phenomenon through a "senseless act." The council's request comes as National Geographic magazine is reportedly preparing to view a videotape of Ogopogo.

High-tech robotic device to search for Ogopogo (The Province, August 15, 1989)

This article by Moira Farrow describes an upcoming expedition by the B.C. Cryptology Club, which believes Ogopogo exists after two recent sightings. The club plans to use a remotely operated robotic device called Seamor, equipped with an underwater camera and spotlight, in collaboration with Robotic Systems International. John Kirk, vice-president of the club, stated their interest is in research and that they are opposed to any attempts to capture or harm the creature.

Geographic Society to view Ogopogo tape (The Province, August 15, 1989)

This report by David Stone details the National Geographic Society's interest in a videotape of Ogopogo, a lake monster in Okanagan Lake, Canada, claimed by car salesman Ken Chaplin. Paul Gasek, a producer for National Geographic's Explorer series, will view the tape. If authenticated, National Geographic may produce a documentary. Gasek noted that the claim's "utter reasonableness" and Chaplin's calm approach were noteworthy. The article also mentions the historical context of other seemingly mythical creatures, like the coelacanth and giant squid, being proven real.

Ontario residents report Sasquatch (Canadian Press, August 11, 1989)

Residents of Webequie, Ontario, have reported seeing a Sasquatch, described as a hairy, eight-foot-tall animal-man leaving giant footprints. Provincial police confirmed the reports and the discovery of tracks measuring 35 centimeters from heel to toe. Arlene Gaal, who has written books on the creature, expressed elation at the verification of her research.

'Hairy' hunt on again (Star, Auckland, New Zealand, January 9, 1989)

Australian cryptozoologist Rex Gilroy is planning a third expedition to New Zealand in search of the "Great Hairy Moehau." Gilroy believes this Bigfoot-like creature may still exist in remote areas. He has previously searched for the Moehau in 1983 and 1986. Gilroy describes the Moehau as herbivorous, shy, and gentle, with possible relatives in other parts of the world, such as the Yowie in Australia and the Kibornee in New Guinea.

Hairy beast scares villagers (Sun, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, August 17, 1989)

This article reports on a sighting of a "huge hairy creature" in a small Volga village, as reported by a Soviet newspaper. Veterinarian R. Saitov described the creature as about 6-foot-6, covered in dark brown hair, with shoulder-length hair and small feet. He and others pursued the creature, which moved with large jumps. Biologists have dismissed the report.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the persistent human fascination with the unknown, the unexplained, and the possibility of life beyond our current understanding. UFO sightings, mysterious natural phenomena like crop circles, and the existence of cryptids such as Bigfoot and lake monsters are central to these reports. There is a clear editorial stance of presenting these phenomena and the accounts of witnesses, while also including skeptical viewpoints and scientific investigations. The articles highlight the ongoing debate between belief and skepticism, and the desire for concrete evidence in these often elusive subjects. The collection demonstrates a broad interest in these topics across different regions and cultures.