UFO Newsclipping Service - 1991 04 - no 261

Magazine Overview

This issue of the U.F.O. NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated April 1991, number 261, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO diehards descend on Eureka," highlighting the fourth annual MUFON-sponsored UFO conference held in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The magazine delves into various UFO-related topics, including eyewitness accounts, alleged abductions, crop circles, and animal mutilations, while also touching upon the possibility of government cover-ups and alternative theories like 'dimensionalism'.

Eureka Springs Conference

The conference in Eureka Springs attracted over 400 ufologists, featuring speakers from England and Russia. Jorge Martin, editor of "Enigma" magazine from Puerto Rico, shared his investigations into UFO reports and alleged abductions, including the incident of F-104 jet fighters being sucked into a triangular spacecraft. He also presented photos of two planes attempting to intercept an elliptic disc in the sky, taken by an abductee.

Witness Accounts and Encounters

Gerald Anderson, 49, of Battlefield, Missouri, recounted his childhood experience in New Mexico in 1947, where he claims to have seen a spaceship crash and touched its occupants, described as small beings with large eyes. He was later ushered away by the military and told to remain silent. Forest Crawford, a MUFON investigator, noted the lack of conclusive evidence like crashed ships or alien bodies.

Another witness, a Jehovah's Witness, described a "demonic experience" related to an abduction. The magazine also features an account from a musician who experienced a car malfunction and a subsequent encounter, resulting in photos of two planes chasing a disc.

'Dimensionalism' and Energy Sources

Robert, an Indian Trail man, proposes the theory of 'dimensionalism,' suggesting that UFOs and their occupants originate from different dimensions of Earth. He believes these entities can modify their vibratory rate to move between dimensions, potentially using energy sources from fault lines, power stations, and transmission lines. He cites his own encounters near the Gold Hill fault line as evidence, describing objects that changed shape, vanished, and exhibited unusual light phenomena. Robert also connects this theory to other unexplained events like the Loch Ness Monster.

Government Cover-Up and Skepticism

Robert Hastings, a UFO researcher, discusses a perceived "Cosmic Watergate" cover-up spanning four decades, initiated by the CIA to minimize public concern. He claims that while the public stance is one of denial, high-ranking officials are concerned about the existence of these objects. Hastings supports his claims with documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), indicating the government's acceptance of UFOs. He argues that the public's reaction to the "War of the Worlds" broadcast is no longer a valid reason for secrecy, citing a Gallup poll where 57% of Americans believe UFOs exist.

Conversely, Mike Marshall, president of North Carolina Skeptics, demands extraordinary evidence for UFO claims, suggesting that witnesses often misinterpret natural phenomena due to psychological factors or a need to believe in a higher power. He dismisses crop circles as likely hoaxes or caused by mundane explanations like torches or chemical spills.

Specific Sightings and Reports

• The issue includes reports of various sightings:
• Michigan: Strange lights, described as a line of about five very bright spots, were seen in the northern sky near Peck on January 31.
• Florida: On February 23, two men in Pensacola witnessed a bright red light over Gulf Breeze that changed color and faded away. David Bell reported witnessing a similar bright white light that turned red over Santa Rosa Sound.
• New Hampshire: On March 6, Minous Cannon of Webster reported seeing a silver streak descend a mountain, while a Strafford housewife reported a greenish, missile-shaped object with a fanned tail. These events occurred around the time of a meteor streaking across the sky.
• California: The Mercury News reported on UFOlogists and abductees in the Bay Area, with psychologist Edith Fiore's book "Encounters" being highlighted. Diane Tai, a Cupertino mother, claims to have had encounters for over 20 years.
• North Carolina: David Oldham, an amateur UFO tracker, discussed numerous sightings in Randolph County, referring to it as a "window area" for paranormal activity. Reports included a pilot's encounter near Franklinville and Steve Harrell's videotaped sighting of a ball of fire near Farmer.
• Texas: A cryptic Teletype from NORAD about a ground fire and "fiery objects" falling from the sky was followed by unexplained sirens in Dallas.
• Massachusetts: Reports of a fireball streaking through the sky on March 7 were attributed by astronomers to a meteor, though UFO enthusiasts like Raymond Fowler of MUFON noted other UFO sightings in the area.

Media and Future Events

CBS is planning to air an hour-long special in May featuring three UFO abduction stories, including that of UND professor John Salter and his son. The production company, Abduction Productions, is committed to accurately recreating their experiences. The magazine also mentions the upcoming third annual Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent interest in UFO phenomena despite a lack of definitive proof, the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics, and the potential for government secrecy and cover-ups. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting various accounts and theories, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also acknowledging the significant number of people who believe in UFOs and have had personal experiences. The magazine highlights the work of organizations like MUFON in investigating these phenomena and provides a platform for both anecdotal evidence and expert opinions.

This issue of the STATESMAN-JOURNAL, dated March 4, 1991, features a cover story on Skip Schultz, the Oregon director of MUFON, who is investigating UFO sightings and searching for evidence that humanity is not alone in the universe. The publication also includes articles on various unexplained phenomena, including crop circles, Bigfoot sightings, and mysterious lights reported across different regions.

Woodburn Man Searches for Signs That We're Not Alone in Universe

Skip Schultz, a Woodburn resident and mechanic, is the Oregon director for MUFON. He has been intrigued by the subject of UFOs since childhood and believes there's a high probability of extraterrestrial visitation. Schultz and MUFON aim to produce credible evidence through objective investigation. The Oregon chapter has 38 members and is seeking more investigators. MUFON checks out reported sightings, sending findings to their headquarters in Seguin, Texas. The article highlights a past hoax involving a photograph of a blimp-like object that turned out to be two plastic salad bowls. It also mentions other cases, such as a glowing disk seen over a pasture in Dallas, Oregon, and an oval pattern of lights seen near Oceanside, Oregon, considered strong indicators of possible UFO activity.

In E-burg, What Went Boom in the Night?

This article investigates an incident in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, where residents reported seeing flames, smelling smoke, and hearing a crash, but rescue workers found no sign of a downed plane. Chip Decker, a local investigator for the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), is looking into the event, which shares similarities with unexplained phenomena known as fireballs. PASU investigates all reports of sightings, distinguishing between natural objects, misidentifications, and genuinely unexplained events. Decker and PASU director Stan Gordon are also investigating a report of two barge-like objects seen moving soundlessly through the sky.

Residents Claim UFO Buzzed Area

This piece reports on a sighting in Oceanside, California, where many residents saw a large, bright, circular ship. While airport officials attributed it to a routine movement of an innovative blimp by Virgin Lightships, local UFO enthusiast Gary Davidson claims a real UFO may have been present. Davidson interviewed children who reported seeing a green light beam from the craft, and some witnesses claim helicopters surrounded it. Davidson remains suspicious, noting that the blimp pilot did not steer inland as some sightings were reported further inland.

Experts Baffled by Mystery Claw

This article from the AUSTRALASIAN POST discusses reports of creatures similar to the Abominable Snowman in rural Australia. Author Liz James found a mysterious claw in far north Queensland that could not be linked to any known animal. Farmers have reported mutilated cows and horses, with entire legs torn from sockets. One account describes a large, bear-like creature seen by a woman. Similar descriptions of large, ape-like creatures have been reported in Tasmania and elsewhere, often in proximity to UFO sightings.

Scientist Says Big Foot Tracks Authentic

This article from the OREGONIAN features Grover Krantz, an anthropologist and leading authority on Bigfoot, who believes that recent tracks found near Walla Walla, Washington, are authentic. Krantz, an associate professor at Washington State University, examined plaster casts and photographs of the tracks, stating they show a "moving, flexible, living foot." He has spent over 20 years researching Bigfoot and has collected numerous plaster casts. Krantz believes the creature that made the tracks was an adolescent, weighing 400-500 pounds, and that adult males can be 7-8 feet tall with 17-inch footprints. He controversially suggests that shooting one might be necessary to prove its existence and protect the species.

Shy Nessie Eludes Hunters

This report from the INTERNATIONAL EXPRESS details a ten-day hunt for the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland, organized by William Hill bookmakers and the Natural History Museum. Despite advanced equipment like sonar and a remote-controlled submarine, no definitive proof of Nessie was found. The article mentions various participants, including David Isted, who used mystic crystals, and Screaming Lord Sutch, who attempted to lure the monster with haggis and a picture of Margaret Thatcher. The piece also briefly mentions Donaldina Mackay, who claimed to have spotted Nessie in 1933, the sighting that initiated the legend.

Fijian Depths Hold Bones of Contention

This article from the NEW ZEALAND HERALD discusses claimed discoveries of sea monster skeletons in deep water near a Fiji reef. Divers from the Cousteau Society are expected to investigate the site. European missionaries in the past reported encounters with huge sea monsters near Taveuni. New Zealand diver Kevin Deacon reported checking out a find by Nigel Douglas, whose family trust owns Matagi Island. Rick Cammick, proprietor of Taveuni Dive, states the site is closed pending investigation. Experts are awaiting proof that the skeletons belong to a sea monster, with theories suggesting they could be related to the shark-god Dakuwaqua. The article details accounts from the Reverend A. J. Small's memoirs, describing encounters with a creature called Dakuwaqua, which took the form of a large shark or a man-like being.

Just Who, or What, Makes Cars Roll Up A Slope in Florida?

This WALL STREET JOURNAL article explores the phenomenon of 'Spook Hill' in Lake Wales, Florida, where cars appear to roll backward uphill. Tourists flock to witness this apparent defiance of gravity, which has baffled scientists. Geologists suggest it might be an optical illusion, but reporters applying levels have found an upward slope. The article notes a rise in interest in the New Age and the unusual, with local officials even planning to enhance the 'haunted' atmosphere of the hill. It also touches on other similar locations across the country and the legend of Ponce de Leon's ghost.

15 Arkansans Call 'Bigfoot Hotline'

This ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT article reports that 15 people from Southwest Arkansas and neighboring states have called a new 'Bigfoot Hotline' since its establishment in January. Tim Olson of the Bigfoot Organization stated that the calls from Arkansas have seemed sincere. The article mentions the 'Fouke Monster' from Southwest Arkansas, which gained notoriety in 1971. Olson emphasizes that the hotline was created to allow people to report sightings without ridicule, as many believe they have seen something until they witness it themselves.

Floyd Pens Third Book of Mysteries

This ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT review discusses E. Randall Floyd's new book, "Great American Mysteries." The book retells 38 stories of unexplained phenomena, including notorious acts, standing stones, lost civilizations, and Bigfoot and ape-man stories. Floyd's work aims to explore the persistent human fascination with mysteries, even in the face of scientific skepticism. The book is praised for its simple, non-judgmental style and includes a bibliography for further reading.

Animal Slaughter Ascribed to UFO's

This TIMES-ECHO article discusses Linda Moulton Howe's research into animal mutilations, which she links to extraterrestrial activity. Howe, a journalist and producer, has documented numerous cases of animals being strangely mutilated, with evidence of high heat at the incision sites but no signs of carbonization, suggesting advanced alien technology. She dismisses explanations involving satanic cults or natural predators, asserting that these events are worldwide phenomena and not normal occurrences, despite law enforcement and medical investigators' findings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings, mysterious lights, and cryptid encounters like Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster. There's a clear interest in investigating these phenomena, with multiple articles detailing eyewitness accounts, expert analyses, and the work of various research groups. While some articles lean towards skepticism and scientific explanations, others embrace the mystery and the possibility of extraterrestrial or unknown origins. The overall stance appears to be one of exploration and reporting on these intriguing subjects, acknowledging both the unexplained and the potential for hoaxes or misidentifications. The issue highlights the public's enduring fascination with the unknown and the desire to find answers to life's great mysteries.