UFO Newsclipping Service - 1990 01 - no 246

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. Newsclipping Service, dated January 1990, features a collection of articles detailing UFO sightings and related phenomena from various locations in the United States. The cover story, "Long Lake area spawns tales of UFO sightings," highlights local lore and eyewitness accounts gathered at Benson's Hide-A-Way.

Long Lake Area UFO Sightings

The article by Betsy Thatcher introduces Benson's Hide-A-Way in the Town of Osceola, Wisconsin, as a hub for UFO stories. Owner Bill Benson shares his own sighting from 1983 of a large, dark object with orange lights. Local dairy farmer John Dins recounts seeing a similar 100-foot circular object in August 1988. The article also mentions Bob Kuehn, a prominent local UFO watcher who claims to have seen hundreds of unexplained lights and dozens of close encounters, and Duane Schmid, who witnessed six orange lights in sequence. The piece includes an account of a group, including Kuehn, Judy Green, Duane Schmid, and Diane Schmid, hiking Dundee Mountain to observe UFOs, witnessing glowing orange lights and a diamond-shaped object that accelerated away.

Charlie's Corner

Charlie Somerby's column discusses renewed interest in UFOs, citing a Mutual UFO Network meeting in Pensacola where a "show" was put on, and a segment on "Unsolved Mysteries" about a 1947 New Mexico crash and alleged government cover-up. Somerby also recounts his wife Dori's sighting of a deep red light to the southwest, initially mistaken for a plane or star.

UFO Issue: Science vs. Belief

John M. McGuire's article from the Post-Dispatch explores the debate surrounding UFOs, contrasting scientific skepticism with believer's perspectives. It features Soviet journalist Pavel Mukhortov's encounter with alleged aliens and Mark Rodeghier of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS), who is skeptical of the Soviet report but acknowledges unexplained cases. Astronomers Robert Kirshner and Ed Ney express doubt due to vast interstellar distances, while UFO advocate Stanford Walter believes in government cover-ups and alien experiments, including abductions for cross-breeding. Rodeghier maintains CUFOS remains neutral but accepts that some reports are genuinely unexplained.

Author Hopes Film Validates UFO Sightings

Jennifer Tucker's article focuses on author Whitley Strieber and the film adaptation of his book "Communion." Strieber discusses his ongoing experiences with extraterrestrial contact and abductions, asserting their reality. The film, directed by Philippe Mora, is described as a faithful adaptation but criticized for its visual effects and dialogue. Strieber acknowledges second thoughts about the film's fictionalization but hopes it validates experiences for other abductees. He plans to shift focus to childhood in future novels, seeking scientific evidence or explanations for UFO phenomena.

Greenville Couple's Close Encounter

Matthew Burns reports on Gina Jones' sighting of five orange lights in a "W" shape above Greenville, South Carolina, which she videotaped. The tape also captured a shadowy, short figure moving across a window. Despite efforts to identify the figure, it remains unexplained. The article mentions an FAA supervisor who reported no unusual activity and a UFO expert who will visit to examine the tape.

Leominster Man Tackles the 'Unexplained'

Anna L. Bisol writes about Steve Firmani, director of the Massachusetts MUFON, who investigates UFO sightings. Firmani discusses a reported sighting of a domed-shaped object over Route 1-93, later identified as an advertising plane. He notes the shift in public focus towards abduction cases, following books like "Communion." Firmani emphasizes MUFON's role in collecting and investigating UFO phenomena, stating that while many sightings are explained, some remain a mystery.

The UFO Question Still Topic for Study

Kathy Mellott interviews John Timmerman, vice president of public relations for the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies. Timmerman discusses a sighting by a young man named Steve, who saw a circular aircraft. Timmerman shares that the center has 100,000 recorded sightings and that 13 million Americans claim to have experienced a UFO. He explains Hynek's classification of encounters (first, second, and third kind) and mentions his own past involvement with the Air Force's Operation Blue Book, which concluded UFOs were not a national security threat.

UFO Believers Land In Earth City

John M. McGuire reports on the Show-Me U.F.O. Conference held in Earth City, Missouri. The event featured Stanton T. Friedman, a nuclear physicist and ufologist, who presented his five-point thesis on UFOs, including claims of a government cover-up and the existence of alien craft and bodies from the Roswell crash. The article contrasts Friedman's views with those of critics like Phillip J. Klass, who questions the authenticity of Friedman's documents. The conference also included lectures and displays on UFOs.

Exline Farmers Spot UFOs in Evening Sky

An Associated Press report describes several people in southern Iowa, including Carol Drake, spotting bright reddish lights in the evening sky. The lights changed colors and moved independently. The sightings coincided with other reports in Kentucky and Kansas. The article also references Tass reports of aliens seen in the Soviet Union.

Use of Money Universal

This article by Ed Rochette introduces Dr. Hal Wilcox, who claims to have traveled to the planet Selo in the Barnard Star System. Wilcox describes a society that uses computers extensively and has a system of economics based on stability rather than obsolescence, utilizing "Green Trading Discs" as currency. He contrasts this with Earth's economic system and mentions a rejected offer from extraterrestrials to help humanity in the 1940s.

Strange Circular Depression Discovered in Shoreline Park

This report from the Sentinel details a strange circular depression of spiraled grass found in Gulf Breeze, Florida. The formation is compared to similar circles reported in England and is being investigated by Rex Salisbury for MUFON. Dr. Terence Meaden speculates it might be a "plasma vortex phenomenon."

UFO Sighting Hot News

Pat Moore writes about Harley and Betty Pliner of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, who reported seeing a large disc with flashing blue and red lights hovering silently above the trees. They hesitated to report it due to fear of ridicule but eventually shared their experience, which was published in the local newspaper. They continue to watch the sky nightly.

MUFON Discloses Four More UFO Sightings

Carol and Rex Salisbury report on additional UFO sightings in the Gulf Breeze, Florida area. These include two bell-shaped UFOs seen by a brother and sister, a third object glowing yellow, and a large glowing object seen over the Gulf of Mexico by a professional couple. Two residents of Tiger Point also reported a similar object. Later, a resident saw two large triangular UFOs moving east, one hovering directly over her car before disappearing.

A Circle of Intrigue

Carl Chancellor reports on a faint circular impression found in the grass in Holmes County, Ohio. The ring, about 46 feet in diameter, has residents talking about UFOs. Sheriff's deputies investigated but found no explanation. The Nevilles, who discovered the ring, are now wondering about UFOs. The article notes that MUFON is investigating the phenomenon.

Two Gazettes Puzzled and Frightened by Encounter with UFO

This article from the Sentinel details a sighting by Harley and Betty Pliner of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, of a large disc with flashing lights. They describe it as a "great big ball of flashing lights" that made no sound. They have been watching the sky nightly since.

Group Probes UFO Sighting

Esther Moore reports on Skip Schultz, the state director of MUFON in Oregon, who is investigating a UFO sighting in the Tillamook area. Schultz is seeking more information from witnesses and notes that MUFON is an international scientific organization.

UFOs? I'd'd just rather not be told.

Sarah Overstreet discusses the growing number of UFO sightings and the public's reaction, referencing Whitley Strieber's "Communion" and the Soviet alien reports. She notes that while many people are fascinated, others prefer not to know.

Strange Lights Fill Sky

This brief report mentions a large, greenish fireball seen across the sky from Arizona to San Diego, with pilots and Coast Guard officials reporting sightings. The FAA and Griffith Observatory had no immediate explanation.

'All I Can Say Is We Saw What We Saw'

Tom Mullins reports on Robert and Mary Boston of Roberta, Oklahoma, who saw a "glowing craft that spit fire and zipped around in the sky." They described it as a UFO. Sheriff's deputies and a district attorney investigator also reportedly witnessed the object, though the sheriff suggested it might have been a shooting star.

Close Encounter with Spielberg Turns into Nightmare

This article details Phil Ridings' experience after sending a poster for his screenplay "Abduction: Encounters of the Fourth Kind" to Steven Spielberg's agent, Marcie Wright. Ridings received a threatening call from Spielberg's security, Kevin Berman, and a subsequent letter from Wright warning of legal action. The incident highlights the unusual dynamics of Hollywood.

Researcher Seeks UFO Information

Carl Anderson reports on Skip Schultz, the state director of MUFON in Oregon, who is investigating a UFO sighting and seeking more information from witnesses. Schultz emphasizes MUFON's role as a scientific organization dedicated to studying UFOs.

Blind Faith

This editorial from the Journal-Sentinel discusses the nature of belief in UFOs, referencing the scientific community's skepticism and the public's fascination with unexplained phenomena. It touches upon the challenges of proving or disproving UFO existence.

The UFO Phenomenon is Real

This article from the Sentinel discusses the ongoing investigation into UFO phenomena. It mentions MUFON's efforts to collect and analyze sightings, acknowledging that while many sightings can be explained, a portion remains unexplained, suggesting the reality of the UFO phenomenon.

UFO Conference

This article from the Chronicle discusses a UFO conference, featuring speakers and discussions on UFO sightings and related topics. It highlights the ongoing public interest and debate surrounding the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings, the scientific community's skepticism versus believers' conviction, the possibility of government cover-ups, and the cultural impact of UFO narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena and debates without taking a definitive side, presenting various perspectives from scientists, ufologists, and eyewitnesses. There is a clear emphasis on documenting sightings and exploring the unexplained aspects of UFO phenomena.

This issue of "Foreign News" from October 23, 1989, published by SUN in Canada, features a dramatic cover story about a British regiment vanishing into a cloud after a UFO sighting at Gallipoli in 1915. The issue also includes reports on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and other unexplained phenomena from various locations worldwide.

Key Articles and Reports

Aliens Kidnapped British Regiment

The lead article recounts an eyewitness account from three New Zealand soldiers who claim an entire regiment of British soldiers vanished into a cloud during a battle at Gallipoli on August 28, 1915. The soldiers described strange, "loaf of bread" shaped clouds hovering in the valley below ANZAC positions. The report states that records for the missing regiment list them as "missing" or "wiped out," and that Quest International claims aliens were responsible.

Quake Stresses Unleash Bursts of Light: Expert

This article by Rene Pollett discusses Dr. Michael Persinger, a neuroscientist from Laurentian University, who suggests that UFO sightings in Winnipeg might be connected to increased earthquake activity. He explains that luminescent phenomena can be generated through strain energy in the Earth's crust, likening it to the light seen when biting a mint in the dark. Persinger believes these sightings could be of light energy rather than physical objects and anticipates an increase in seismic activity in the mid-western United States.

Once More Into the Unknown

Written by Igor Tsarev, this piece features comments from physicist Alexander Kuzovkin regarding a spate of UFO sightings in the Vologda region of central Russia. Kuzovkin notes that 10,000 eyewitness accounts have been recorded by the Moscow UFO research team, with an estimated 100,000 encounters worldwide. He discusses the variety of UFO shapes and suggests that human eyes and brains might create 'pictures' when objects move too fast. Other Soviet Academicians, like Academician Migulin, are more pessimistic, believing there is insufficient information to confirm or deny UFOs.

UFOs Make Mark in Manitoba

Karen Taylor reports on UFO sightings and alleged alien abductions in Manitoba, Canada. Chris Rutkowski, president of the Canadian Astronomical Society, Manitoba branch, notes that many cases remain secret due to stigma. The article mentions cases like a Brandon man who saw "creatures" and a couple, Arnold and Joy Bradley, who found suspicious markings in a field. Brandon University astronomer John Rice is skeptical, calling it "scientifically impossible" for interstellar travel. Rutkowski urges an open mind, citing sightings by professionals.

Aircraft or Aliens?

This article by Fred Hammerton details numerous UFO sightings in Canvey, Shoebury, and Southend, UK, over a bank holiday weekend. A mystery object described as a rugby ball with lights was seen for extended periods. Gladys Stevenson, a local ufologist, reports seeing golden and crimson domes and a ten-foot-tall alien with no face. Peter Hough, chairman of the Manchester UFO Research Association, suggests a Piezo Electrical effect related to earth's crust movement might explain some aerial lights.

Politician's Agony: Did Space Aliens Kill My Son?

This report by John Pinkney details former National Party politician Lindsay Hartwig's belief that aliens may have killed his son Graham in 1971. Graham's body was found near a circle of dead grass on his family's property. Hartwig also recounts seeing two beautiful, pale green, oval objects spinning in the sky, which he believes were UFOs. He also mentions a neighbor who vanished after chasing a wild pig, with his body also found near a similar circle.

Soviets' Close Encounter Leaves Experts Skeptical

This article discusses a Tass news agency report claiming aliens landed in a Soviet park, leaving behind unusual rocks. Local UFO experts are divided, with some like Paul Kurtz being skeptical and others, like Charles Reuben, finding it plausible. The report notes that typically sighted aliens are "short, very small, with large heads," contrasting with the Soviet report of tall beings with small heads.

Space Invaders Fly Across Essex Skies

Andy Stephens reports a surge in UFO sightings across South East Essex, UK, with 19 families claiming to have made contact with alien creatures. Ms. Sheridan Lane of the East Anglian UFO and Paranormal Association notes a dramatic increase in sightings and close encounters, where individuals report losing time.

Nessie Riddle of a Holiday Video

Peter Samson reports on a video taken by Canadian tourists John and Judy Chaffin, showing a mystery beastie in Loch Ness. Marine biologist Dr. Gordon Williamson described the object as "certainly something unusual." The couple was hesitant to report their sighting for fear of ridicule.

'Bigfoot' Sighting Reported by Startled Teen in Hampton

This article details a sighting of a dark, matted, scruffy figure by a teenager in Hampton, NY. The witness also reported seeing glowing red eyes. The incident is being investigated by Dr. Warren L. Cook, a Bigfoot authority.

Glowing Balls of Energy No One Can Understand

This science report discusses the phenomenon of ball lightning, described as glowing balls of energy that appear indoors and outdoors. Despite decades of investigation, its existence and cause remain a mystery, with theories ranging from optical illusions to anti-matter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien abductions, and other unexplained phenomena, often presented with a mix of eyewitness accounts, expert opinions, and skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also acknowledging the scientific and skeptical viewpoints. There is a clear interest in historical accounts as well as contemporary reports from around the globe.