UFO Newsclipping Service - 1990 06 - no 251

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated June 1990, features a prominent cover story titled "Encounters with 'Men in Black': fact or fantasy?" The publication delves into various UFO-related phenomena, including eyewitness accounts, scientific investigations, and the ongoing debate surrounding the nature of these events.

'Men in Black': Fact or Fantasy?

The lead article by Gordon Slovut introduces Peter Rojcewicz, a professor of humanities and folklore at New York's Juilliard School, who shared his personal encounter with a 'Man in Black' (MIB) in 1980. Rojcewicz describes the MIB as a gaunt, pale man in a black suit who questioned him about flying saucers. He notes that MIB encounters often follow UFO sightings and have been reported for centuries, with historical references dating back to Biblical times. Rojcewicz has been studying these phenomena since his own experience and has interviewed many people who have reported UFOs, flying saucers, and MIB encounters. He mentions that MIBs often appear in threes and sometimes pose as Air Force UFO investigators, warning witnesses to remain silent. The article highlights the varied psychological impacts on individuals who encounter MIBs, ranging from increased success to job loss and feelings of victimization. Rojcewicz suggests that 'laughter' is a good defense against them.

The article also touches upon the audience's reactions, including biophysicist Otto Schmitt and retired aircraft developer Cecil Behringer, who listened intently to Rojcewicz's account. Physician Steven Zuckerman found Rojcewicz to be serious, while polymer scientist Arthur Coury noted the potential for space visitors to take biopsies. The piece mentions that the Archaeus Project, which sponsors such lectures, regularly brings in researchers in the paranormal field.

Couple's 'Spooky' UFO Sighting Over Highway 59

Jill Morris reports on Juliana and Kenneth Pflager's experience of seeing a bright, football-shaped object hovering in the sky over Highway 59. They described it as a 'really bright light' that was not moving and too large to be a star. The object dimmed and disappeared after about five to ten minutes. Kenneth Pflager, a welder, stated, "I know it was a UFO." They reported their sighting to Truax Field in Madison, where a supervisor confirmed other similar reports. The couple was referred to the National UFO Reporting Center in Seattle, with Juliana describing the sighting as 'a bit spooky.'

Gulf Breeze UFOs: Science or Fiction?

Craig Myers and Bill DiPaolo investigate the numerous UFO sightings reported in Gulf Breeze, Florida, since November 1987. The article focuses on retired contractor Ed Walters, who claims to have photographed numerous UFOs and published a book titled "The Gulf Breeze Sightings." The McConnells, a local couple, also reported seeing an object that matched Walters' photos. The article notes that Northwest Florida has become a 'hot spot' for UFO sightings. It details Walters' claims of 20 encounters, including one where he lost consciousness for an hour, and mentions his discovery of a 20-foot wide patch of swirled grass, suggesting a possible landing site. The article also touches on the skepticism of Gulf Breeze Police Chief Jerry Brown, who believes most sightings can be explained by activity at nearby military bases or a 'domino effect' of mass hysteria.

UFO Sightings Have Intrigued Us for Decades

This section provides a timeline of famous international and local UFO sightings, dating from 1947 to 1988. It includes reports from various locations, such as Roswell, New Mexico; Montgomery, Alabama; Socorro, New Mexico; and local sightings in Florida, including Eglin Air Force Base and Pensacola Beach.

UFO Conference Draws 300

Pat Dallas reports on the second annual Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, which attracted over 300 attendees. The conference featured updates on research and personal accounts of UFO encounters. Dan Wright of MUFON stated that the organization has over 2,400 members in 50 countries. Ed Walters presented slides of his Gulf Breeze sightings, and Carey Baker discussed sightings in the Fyffe, Alabama area. Other speakers included Linda Moulton Howe on animal mutilations and Lauren Rose on alien abductions.

Michael Jackson and UFOs

An article notes that Michael Jackson is reportedly building a giant landing pad in the Nevada desert, hoping to videotape a UFO touchdown. He is said to believe in extraterrestrial life and has had blueprints drawn up for a spaceport with a radio transmitter to signal aliens.

No UFOs in Mars? Try Oakland Twp.

Roger Barnhart discusses a "A Current Affair" television segment that featured UFO sightings and scorched earth in Mars, Pennsylvania. However, UFO researcher Stan Gordon clarifies that the events actually occurred in Oakland Township, northeast of Butler, Pennsylvania. The program reportedly showed videotape evidence of a UFO filmed by three cameras.

Goodness Gracious, Great Balls of Fire

Jon Little profiles Egon Bach, a geologist who believes that active volcanoes like Redoubt Volcano are sources of 'luminescent spheres' (ball lightning or UFOs) that are self-perpetuating 'natural engines' seeking fuel. Bach is in Alaska to find evidence for his theory, which he believes could lead to energy 'freedom.' Scientists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory expressed interest but noted that Bach's work is not directly related to theirs.

UFO Investigation in Tri-State Area

Bob Fullerton reports on Bill Knell, a private UFO investigator, who claims the U.S. government is covering up UFO phenomena. Knell asserts that private groups began forming in 1947 due to continued UFO sightings and government secrecy. He presented slides of burned ground in circular patterns and discussed theories about UFO visitors creating messages. Knell also mentioned alleged UFO kidnappings and the government's denial of UFO existence.

UFOs: Out of the tabloids, into hardcover

Paul Dellinger reviews "The Gulf Breeze Sightings" by Ed and Frances Walters. The review highlights the book's controversial nature, with Walters claiming repeated UFO encounters, telepathic contact, and abductions. Dellinger notes the lack of middle ground between believing Walters or considering it a hoax, especially given the involvement of other family members reporting sightings.

Debunkers Desperate to Ridicule UFO Witnesses and Photographs

This article defends Ed Walters against accusations of trickery, particularly regarding a 'ghost' photo. The author criticizes the Pensacola News Journal for quoting debunkers without revealing their backgrounds and for omitting facts that support Walters' claims. The article argues that the 'ghost' photo is likely a reflection and that Walters' later photos were taken with cameras incapable of double exposure. It also defends Walters against criticism of his past convictions, noting he received a pardon.

UFOs: Are They Here?

Sarah E. Crowley reports on a seminar by R. Leo Sprinkle, an internationally known UFO researcher. Sprinkle discussed techniques for exploring UFO reports and the possibility of reincarnation as a link to UFO phenomena. He noted that a significant portion of educated people believe in UFOs. The article also touches on the stigma attached to UFO research and the elusive nature of the phenomena, making objective observation difficult.

UFO Awards to Journalists

This article details the Donald E. Keyhoe Journalism Award competition, where a documentary titled "UFOs: The Best Evidence" won first place. It highlights the quality of investigative journalism in reporting on UFOs and mentions other award recipients and their work.

UFO Sighters Refute Debunkers, Challenge Coverage by the News Journal

Buddy and Brenda Pollak write a letter to the editor refuting a previous article in the Pensacola News Journal that they claim was inaccurate and biased against Ed Walters. They defend Walters' photographic evidence, including the use of cameras incapable of double exposure, and criticize the debunkers quoted in the article. They call for a retraction and apology from the newspaper.

Passing By: UFO Crews Skipped This Conference

Peter Genovese covers a UFO conference in Bordentown, New Jersey, featuring speakers like Charles Hickson, who recounted an alleged UFO abduction, and Antonio Huneeus, who presented photos of alleged alien humanoids. The conference, organized by Pat Marcattilio, aimed to explore UFOs, humanoids, and alien abductions.

UFO scientist says search needs skeptics

Ted Mahar interviews Jacques Vallee, an astrophysicist and UFO researcher, who advocates for a scientific approach to studying UFOs. Vallee expresses skepticism about extraterrestrial origins, finding the reported technology crude compared to their apparent capabilities. He questions the need for landings if the goal is study, suggesting satellites would suffice. Vallee also finds abduction accounts unscientific due to their repetitive and humanoid nature.

Ball of light startles Lilly man as UFO sightings rise

James W. Siehl reports on Frank Waksmunski's sighting of a large, white ball of light in Lilly, Pennsylvania. The article notes a rise in UFO sightings in western Pennsylvania and mentions an upcoming "A Current Affair" segment about an incident involving burned rings and UFO sightings near Pittsburgh.

UFOs: Out of the tabloids, into hardcover

Paul Dellinger reviews "The Gulf Breeze Sightings" by Ed and Frances Walters, noting the book's sensational claims of UFO encounters, telepathic contact, and abductions, and the controversy surrounding Walters' photographic evidence.

UFOs: The tabloids, into hardcover

This review of "The Gulf Breeze Sightings" by Ed and Frances Walters discusses the book's claims of UFO encounters, telepathic contact, and abductions, and the controversy surrounding Walters' photographic evidence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistent mystery of UFO sightings, the debate between believers and skeptics, the challenges faced by UFO investigators, and the alleged government cover-up of information. The publication appears to present a balanced view, featuring accounts from witnesses and researchers while also acknowledging criticisms and debunking efforts. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging investigation and the sharing of experiences, while also highlighting the need for critical analysis.

This issue of the magazine features a prominent article titled "UFOs Over Cheshire? The Untold Story" by William Oberst, dated March 23, 1978. The article delves into UFO sightings and related phenomena in Cheshire, Connecticut, drawing on witness testimonies and research.

UFOs Over Cheshire? The Untold Story

The article begins by referencing a conversation with Betty Hill, known for her abduction claims, who mentioned a UFO hot-spot in Cheshire, Connecticut. Tom Potter, a Meriden school teacher and UFO enthusiast, along with his wife, investigated the area indicated by Betty Hill. Their efforts led to the observation of inexplicable lights in the sky on three separate nights.

The piece highlights Cheshire as a significant location for UFO activity, detailing the celebrated case of Sterling Jewett. In 1966, Jewett claimed to have encountered a silvery cylinder object, approximately 90 to 100 feet away, drifting over the Podgwaite hayfield off Mt. Sanford Road. He described the object as having a satin finish, no visible wheels or legs, and hovering silently. Jewett provided detailed dimensions and noted the presence of seven or eight pipes running the length of the cylinder.

Initially hesitant to share his experience for fear of ridicule, Jewett eventually recounted his story. The article also mentions other local sightings, including one over the Meadowbrook golf course in Hamden, where a group of women playing golf reportedly saw a silvery object disappear quickly. A police spokesperson confirmed that the department continues to receive sporadic reports of unidentified flying objects, estimating about a dozen within the last five or six years.

A more bizarre account involves a local family who requested anonymity. They described an object moving at treetop level, appearing as a gold and green oval with lights around its perimeter and a purplish-red light flashing above. The family estimated the object to be about 80 feet across and observed it descending into a swampy area.

Tom Potter's own notes and sketch are included, detailing a multiple sighting on July 15, 1977, at 10:30 PM, involving one bright white light and two other white lights, with a 'skipping' motion and no sound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The article adopts a tone of serious investigation into UFO phenomena, presenting witness accounts and details of sightings without overt skepticism. It positions Cheshire as a focal point for such events, suggesting a pattern of activity. The inclusion of personal accounts and detailed descriptions of objects indicates an editorial stance that takes these reports seriously and aims to document them for public awareness and further research.