UFO Newsclipping Service - 1992 11 - no 280

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated November 1992, focuses on the persistent and peculiar nature of UFO sightings and alien abduction accounts, featuring analysis from folklorists and researchers, alongside reports of recent phenomena.

Tales of UFOs leave researcher wondering

The lead article from the STAR (Indianapolis, IN) on September 14, 1992, titled "Tales of UFOs leave researcher wondering: Folklorist finds 'peculiar' consistency," by Scott L. Miley, explores the work of Indiana University folklorist Thomas E. Bullard. Bullard, who serves on the national board of directors for the Fund for UFO Research Inc., has cataloged hundreds of reported UFO abductions and interviewed dozens of claimants. He finds a striking consistency in the narratives, noting that "the pieces keep falling in the same order," which he finds peculiar, though he admits no single logic holds the stories together. Bullard suggests that these tales are too complex for simple folklore and may stem from real experiences, contrasting them with common folk stories. He cites a popular story about a young couple encountering a hook on their car door after hearing scraping sounds, and a woman's claim of multiple abductions, including a medical exam by aliens after being beamed onto a spaceship. Bill Ellis, an associate professor at Penn State University, suggests that abduction stories could be modern fairy tales, where individuals use cultural language to explain abnormal events they cannot otherwise label, leading to elaborate first-person accounts. Bullard, however, remains hesitant to dismiss the stories outright, expressing a sense of unease if they are true.

Ozark UFO Report

From the Ozark Advertiser (Mountain Home, AR), dated November 11, 1992, W. G. Eslinger, Director of the Ozark UFO Network, reports on recent sightings in the Ozarks. These include a large cigar-shaped object with pink fluorescent lights near Harrison on August 13, and a cluster of non-pulsing red lights observed over the Boone-Newton County line on September 22. Eslinger also mentions large triangular "mother ships" reported over northern Newton County and other areas, described as being very large. He notes that smaller UFOs have been seen entering and departing these mother ships, which are believed to contain laboratories involved in unfamiliar technological activity. Lighted, glowing spheres, described as probes, are also frequently observed. Eslinger defends the credibility of witnesses, stating they possess good vision, sobriety, intelligence, and honesty, urging healthy skepticism but also consideration of the preponderance of evidence. He references historical reports of flying saucers dating back to 1947 and mentions the "Night Siege" book documenting Hudson Valley UFO sightings.

Letters

The Daily News (Fort Walton Beach, FL) on August 24, 1992, features a letter from Robert Reid, who supports articles on the "alien abduction" phenomenon. Reid notes that sightings continue despite efforts to discredit them, with strange lights over Gulf Breeze recorded over 150 times since early 1991. He states that experienced observers have seen lights that are not conventional flares or aircraft. Reid mentions an informal network developing among individuals who share experiences and discuss ideas, estimating that 2 percent of American adults have experienced this phenomenon. He suggests that those who think they might be abductees are not alone and can find support.

Mysterious objects appear in night sky

An article from the Daily News Leader (Staunton, VA) on November 9, 1992, by Sam Carter, details sightings in Greenville, Virginia. Paul and Jim Grant reported seeing a large oval object with pink fluorescent lights hovering over a pasture on October 10. Another report from Fishersville on October 28 described a streak across the sky. Local law enforcement received calls about a green ball of light on October 9, attributed by astronomers to a meteor shower. However, the Grants' experience, described as a saucer-shaped craft with pink lights, is presented as distinct from a meteor. Franklin Moses also reported seeing a ball of fire, and Sibert Armstrong described a yellowish, stationary object. Dr. Robert Rood, a professor of astronomy at UVA, suggests that fog, haze, or misperceptions can account for such sightings, while meteors typically travel quickly and are brief. The article also touches on the significance of the road number (Va. 666) where the Grants saw the object.

Society members serious, but anonymous

This piece from Pickaway County This Week, by Connie Rohr, discusses the Roundtown UFO Society (RUFOS), a non-profit organization that collects data on local UFO sightings. Members remain anonymous and strive for an objective view. RUFOS provides a forum for discussion and shares information through a newsletter. Some members are also involved with national UFO investigative groups like MUFON and CUFOS. They acknowledge that many sightings can be explained conventionally but believe some are truly unexplained. RUFOS also monitors research from NASA's SETI program.

UFO debate still waging decades later

An Associated Press report from Irving, Texas, dated October 19, 1992, covers a debate on the "Roswell incident." Skeptics, including Philip Klass, argue that the alleged "flying disc" was a radar reflector from a scientific balloon. Donald Schmitt and James McGaha, however, maintain that the evidence points to something extraordinary. The debate highlights differing interpretations of witness testimony and government documents.

Filmmaker out of sight after UFO announcement

An article from the Sun Herald (Biloxi, MS) on October 24, 1992, by Ken Fink, reports on the stalled production of a film about Charles Hickson's alleged alien abduction experience in Pascagoula. Independent film producer Midge Soderbergh announced plans for the movie "Snatched," but the chosen production company, Walsh Production Co., has not heard from her and lacks a script, leading to uncertainty about the project's future.

Aliens kidnap thousands, former UC professor says

An article from the Valley Times (Pleasanton, CA) on October 6, 1992, by Mary Barkey, discusses the theories of James Harder, a former UC-Berkeley engineering professor. Harder estimates that hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. have been kidnapped by aliens, with 95% having no conscious memory of the events. He uses a profile of a typical abductee and the pendulum test, followed by hypnosis, to access subconscious memories. Harder's research is supported by Dr. John E. Mack of Harvard Medical School. Skeptics like Bob Steiner of Bay Area Skeptics dismiss these methods and the claims of alien visitation.

UFO Follows Erratic Course

From the Islander (Pensacola Beach, FL) on October 30, 1992, by Bland Pugh, this report details ongoing UFO sightings in the Pensacola area. Reports include rings of lights, small lights disappearing quickly, and a large white ball of light. MUFON investigators are examining a recent sighting involving a craft that rose rapidly from behind a home. Magnetic vortexes and disturbances in a pond were detected. The article also mentions visits from Canadian UFO investigators and upcoming meetings featuring experts like Dr. John E. Mack and David Jacobs.

Pensacola Skywatchers Spot Familiar Rings Of Lights

Another report from the Islander (Pensacola Beach, FL) on October 23, 1992, by Bland Pugh, discusses sightings in Gulf Breeze and Pensacola. Reports include rings of red and green lights, and a large white ball of light. The author describes witnessing a bright light that faded out, possibly a satellite. The difficulty in investigating reports received second-hand is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of direct reporting to the MUFON hotline.

Investigators Check UFO Daytime Sighting

This article from the Islander (Pensacola Beach, FL) on September 18, 1992, by Bland Pugh, details a daytime sighting of a circular craft that rose rapidly and disappeared. MUFON investigators found strong magnetic vortexes and disturbances in a pond in the area. The report also mentions visits from Canadian UFO investigators and upcoming meetings with experts.

Is anybody out there?

This section features multiple articles discussing UFOs. The Daily Telegraph (Adrian, MI) on August 14, 1992, includes an article titled "Is anybody out there?" by Mary Averill, discussing common UFO shapes like disc-shaped with dome, boomerang-shaped, and pyramid-shaped. It highlights the debate between believers and skeptics, mentioning the "Great Airship Wave" of 1896-97 and the Hillsdale incident of 1966, where the Air Force attributed sightings to swamp gas. Virginia Tilly of MUFON suggests Michigan's high sighting rate might be due to its visibility from the Great Lakes and proximity to nuclear power plants. Barry Karr of CSICOP dismisses alien involvement, attributing sightings to distorted perceptions and cultural expectations. Philip J. Klass emphasizes the lack of credible evidence for alien spaceships and suggests misidentification of conventional objects. Tilly notes that millions may have experienced UFO abductions, often involving physical and neurological examinations, and suggests government cover-ups.

Another article from the Daily Telegraph (Adrian, MI) on August 14, 1992, continues the discussion on UFOs, with Tilly suggesting government cover-ups due to national security concerns or the inability to control airspace. Karr disputes the conspiracy theory, attributing blacked-out pages to national security information. He notes some Congressmen are receptive to new investigations.

Confessions of a bogus UFO captive

From the Citizen (Austin, TX) on August 21, 1992, by Mark Hayter, this piece describes an Austin UFO support group meeting. Hayter, initially attending to share a story, found a welcoming environment for those with UFO concerns. He notes the distrust of government handling of UFO phenomena and mentions a prediction of a significant UFO event on October 12. The article highlights the purpose of the meeting: to provide understanding and support for alleged abductees, with about a third of attendees claiming abduction experiences, often from their youth.

Flight of 'mystery' plane leaves many questions for Pentagon to answer

The News Tribune (Tacoma, WA) on September 5, 1992, by Mark Sauter, reports on a near collision between a mysterious aircraft and a packed 747. Experts suggest the plane could be part of a secret weapons development project, raising questions about congressional control and government spending. Representative Norm Dicks pledged to investigate. Steven Aftergood of the Federation of American Scientists suggests the Pentagon may be developing secret aircraft without public knowledge. Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Dave Garner denied the aircraft was military, but Aviation Week and Space Technology reported sightings of similar "black" military aircraft. The FAA is not planning an investigation.

UFO event taps professional crowd

An article from the News-Leader (Springfield, MO) on September 19, 1992, by Chris Bentley, discusses believers' interest in UFOs, citing a Temple University course on "Unidentified Flying Objects in American Society" taught by Professor David M. Jacobs. Jacobs asserts that extraterrestrials are among us and involved in vile activities, including the extraction of human sperm and eggs. His book, "Secret Life: Firsthand Accounts of UFO Abductions," is supported by Dr. John E. Mack. The course attracts many students, though some, like Lou Teller, are skeptical. The article touches on the historical context of UFO investigations and the academic freedom surrounding such courses.

Who's been sleeping in my cornfield?

The Star Beacon (Ashtabula, OH) on September 2, 1992, by Carl E. Feather, reports on Donald Wheeler of Austinburg, who discovered a rectangular impression in his cornfield. Wheeler found no tracks or other signs of entry, ruling out deer or human activity. He speculates it could be a spacecraft, but ultimately labels it an unsolved mystery.

Troy man believes UFOs caused circles

An article from the Intelligencer (Edwardsville, IL) on September 16, 1992, by Laurie Sybert, discusses Peter Bostrom of Troy, who found perfectly formed circles of flattened plants in his farm field for the second year. Bostrom has contacted scientists who confirm the circles cannot be explained by known means. He concludes that UFOs are the only possible cause, citing sightings of strange lights in the area. Biophysicists and botanists have studied samples, finding cell stretching and altered mineral content in the flattened plants.

UFOs Checkout Mainland

This report from the Islander (Pensacola Beach, FL) by Bland Pugh details UFO sightings reported to MUFON, including anomalous lights near Pensacola and a bright glowing ball of light observed by a MUFON member and his wife. The author describes witnessing a light that possibly was a satellite. The difficulty of investigating second-hand reports is emphasized.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFO sightings and alien encounters, the debate between believers and skeptics, and the scientific and folkloric approaches to understanding these phenomena. There is a consistent emphasis on the detailed accounts of abductions and sightings, with a notable effort to lend credibility to witnesses through their backgrounds or the consistency of their stories. The publication also touches upon the potential for government cover-ups and the growing scientific interest in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives while highlighting the unexplained aspects of UFO phenomena.

This issue of PRESS magazine, dated August 22, 1992, features a prominent cover story titled "Support for those extraterrestrial moments," highlighting personal accounts of UFO sightings and alien encounters. The magazine delves into the experiences of individuals who claim to have witnessed or interacted with extraterrestrial phenomena, exploring the psychological and societal aspects of these beliefs.

Key Articles and Features

Support for those extraterrestrial moments

The lead article focuses on John O'Connell, who recounts a sudden encounter with an alien entity in his bedroom in September 1989. He describes the entity as small, gray, with large, dark eyes, and possessing insect-like movements. O'Connell's experience is presented alongside similar accounts shared with the local chapter of MUFON (Mutual Unidentified Flying Object Network) in Seguin, Texas. Vincent Creevy, the chapter president, emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind, noting that many MUFON members are professionals in scientific or technological fields.

The article details commonalities in witness testimonies, including descriptions of three distinct types of alien creatures: small and gray, tall and dark-eyed, and human-like. It also addresses the phenomenon of 'missing time,' where individuals experience memory gaps, often recalling alien encounters under hypnosis. Warnings about future apocalyptic events are also mentioned as being psychically projected by these entities.

Personal anecdotes from other witnesses, such as 'Carol' and 'Bill,' are included, illustrating the emotional impact and personal struggles associated with these experiences. Creevy highlights that many individuals seek support from MUFON due to fear of ridicule, and the organization aims to provide validation.

Speaking of UFOs... here's an authority

This section introduces Karla Turner, an author and former educator with a doctorate in English, who speaks about her book "Into The Fringe." Turner shares her personal journey into ufology, beginning with her husband's UFO sighting in December 1987. She recounts her own compelling experience of witnessing a stationary object with flashing lights of different colors, which later transformed into horizontal bars of light. This event, which occurred at 3 a.m., convinced her of the reality of UFOs, leading her to quit her university position to pursue the study of ufology.

Turner's book is described as a "true story of UFO's and alien abduction." The article notes her upcoming appearances in Shreveport, Louisiana, for a talk and book signing, and a lecture at LSUS.

Kecksburg UFO: It will fly again on national TV

This article reports on the upcoming broadcast of the Kecksburg UFO incident on Fox Television's "Sightings." The alleged landing of a UFO in Kecksburg, Pennsylvania, on December 9, 1965, has divided the community. While many residents claim to have witnessed military personnel removing a covered object, others, including former Fire Chief Ed Myers, dismiss the event as a hoax. The article notes the perplexity of the "Sightings" producer regarding the refusal of skeptics like Myers to appear on the show. Myers defends his decision, citing concerns about media misrepresentation and the emotional toll the case has taken on his relationships within the community. Stan Gordon, director of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained, asserts that something did land in the area, suggesting it might have been a Soviet space probe. He calls for witnesses to come forward to ensure the history is recorded.

'Close encounter' too close for Quarryville man

This piece recounts Bill Epler's childhood experience in 1952, when he and his mother witnessed two bright, circular lights in the sky. Epler's investigation into newspaper archives from that time revealed numerous other sightings in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area, including reports from newsmen and an Air Spotter Chief. The article touches upon the scientific explanation of 'heat inversion' as a potential cause for some sightings, but Epler's personal experience remains a significant memory.

Residents report UFO sightings in Summers Co.

This article details a UFO sighting by residents in Summers County, West Virginia, on a Sunday night. Witnesses at the Oaks Supper Club reported seeing bright green flashing lights and a 'funny green glow' on a hilltop. Firefighters and police investigated but could not immediately identify the source of the lights, though some reports from park visitors suggested movement. The incident led to a police investigation, with officers attempting to pinpoint the location of the lights.

UFO Sighting?

This brief report from Hinton, West Virginia, follows up on the Summers County sighting, stating that police and Pipestem State Park officials investigated a mysterious object. An employee of the Oak Supper Club described seeing green flashing lights. However, police determined the lights were part of a collection of lights placed on the outside of a farmhouse.

Strange Lights Over South Mountain

This article describes unusual lights witnessed in the sky over South Mountain, Arkansas. The Sheriff's Department received multiple calls about these lights, which Deputy Harold Young observed as possibly three aircraft performing circular maneuvers without sound. Reports described the objects as triangular and illuminated. The Air Force Base in Little Rock stated there was no aircraft training in the area at the time.

Laser lights are not the answer

This letter to the editor challenges the explanation of UFO sightings in Colchester, England, as being caused by laser lights. The author presents several witness accounts from May and July 1992, describing bright orange lights, V-shaped formations of gold and silver lights, and a large, fast-moving, saucer-shaped object. The author argues that laser lights cannot account for these phenomena and seeks a more intelligent explanation.

UFO sightings excite UFO buffs

This brief report notes that UFO buffs were excited by sightings of mysterious yellow 'saucer-shaped discs' over Colchester, England. While the Meteorological Office and police suggested laser lights, UFO researchers like Ron West of the Essex UFO Research Group believe otherwise, citing similar sightings reported by a woman in Copford.

Anti-UFO talk that's strictly for the Birds

This article discusses a group called 'the Birds,' allegedly involved in military intelligence and international agencies, who are accused of trying to discredit ufology. Tony Dodd, director of investigations for Quest International, plans to expose their tactics at a UFO conference, claiming they spread false documents and stories to make ufologists appear foolish.

Light shed on UFO 'kidnap'

This report from Darlington, England, details a claim by an American woman who was allegedly 'kidnapped' by aliens from her apartment in full view of 14 witnesses. Tony Dodd, a former policeman and UFO researcher, is set to reveal more details at a conference. The witnesses reportedly saw a UFO hovering outside the 12th-floor apartment, from which a blue light shot out, and then aliens were seen floating back with the woman.

UFO spotted hovering over Larklands

This article from Ilkeston, England, describes a UFO spotted hovering over Larklands. A witness described a brilliant ball of light spinning in the sky. Omar Fowler, a member of a UFO investigation group, noted that similar sightings had been reported in other locations and coincided with the end of a meteor shower. The report also mentions previous sightings of UFOs and corn circles in the area.

Woman beamed aboard UFO shuts off TV shows about aliens

This article from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, features Margaret, a former resident who claims to have been beamed aboard a UFO with her family. She now avoids watching TV shows about aliens due to the traumatic nature of her experiences. Margaret and her husband, Paul, have had multiple UFO encounters, including one where a UFO followed them for a significant distance. Margaret recounts being taken aboard a craft and witnessing aliens performing procedures on her family. Paul has a scar on his leg, which he believes is from an alien encounter. The article also mentions Steven, Margaret's brother, who reported seeing a large "mother ship."

Alien visitors described

This article from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, discusses the growing number of people who believe aliens are regularly visiting Saskatchewan for experimental medical research and possibly to develop hybrids. Dr. Laurie Vassos, a city physician, has been researching these claims and has brought in psychologists and psychiatrists. The article includes testimonies from individuals like Mary, who describes aliens with huge heads and baldness, and her experiences of 'time-lapses' and medical procedures.

Mystery of 'UFO' alarms residents

This report from Rossendale, England, details residents alerting police to a possible UFO sighting over Burscough. A police spokesman confirmed receiving reports of an unidentified blue light flashing and darting in the sky. The sighting is noted as the first in Rossendale for some months and occurs during a period traditionally busy for UFO spotters.

'Frightened' teenage girls tell of UFO sighting on Bacup hillside

Three teenage girls from Rossendale, England, claim to have witnessed a green and red flashing disc hovering above a hillside near Bacup. They describe the object as accelerating towards Sharneyford and disappearing into the woods. The girls are convinced the object was of 'other-world origins.'

UFO disc sighting mystery

This article from Colchester, England, reports on sightings of mysterious yellow 'saucer-shaped discs' over the area. While police and the Meteorological Office suggest laser lights as an explanation, UFO buffs are excited by the possibility of extraterrestrial craft.

UFO sighting leads to new look at the meaning of life

This article introduces Derek Sheffield's book "A Question of Reason," which explores UFO sightings and their potential implications for understanding the universe and mankind. Sheffield's interest in UFOs stems from a sighting he experienced about 30 years ago. The book discusses various UFO reports from around the world and presents new theories about the origins of the universe.

Bigfoot expert probes sightings

This article from Lewiston, Idaho, features WSU anthropologist Grover Krantz discussing a recent alleged Bigfoot sighting near Lapwai. Krantz rates the sighting as having a "50-50 chance" of being authentic, citing tracks found in a plowed field with a long stride. He notes that such sightings are common and often ignored by the media. Krantz's new book, "Big Footprints: the scientific evidence for Sasquatch," is mentioned. He also controversially suggests that killing a Bigfoot might be necessary to prove its existence.

Touchet Valley Ramblings

This column details a film crew from "Hard Copy" visiting the Blue Mountains to document Bigfoot sightings. The crew filmed tracks found near a pond where Paul Freeman had previously filmed two Bigfoot creatures. The article describes the filming process and mentions meeting a skeptic who offered an alternative explanation for the Bigfoot phenomenon.

Tri-State Spooklight legend lives on

This article examines the Tri-State Spooklight, a mysterious light phenomenon in northeastern Ottawa County, Oklahoma. Anomalist Keith Partain is interviewed, who believes the Spooklight is a worldwide class of anomalies called low-level nocturnal lights. Partain suggests that the legend has been commercialized and that the true anomaly is rare and not a nightly occurrence. He has advanced a hypothesis based on witness accounts and photographic evidence, comparing it to ball lightning. The article also debunks popular legends associated with the Spooklight, such as the 'Hornet Panic' and tales of a decapitated Civil War soldier, finding no historical corroboration.

The sky's not falling, that's passenger poop

This article reports on an incident where a chunk of frozen airline waste, known as 'blue ice,' fell through a woman's roof in Woodinville, Washington. The phenomenon is explained as waste from leaking airline toilets freezing at high altitudes. While humorous aspects are noted, the seriousness of the potential danger is emphasized, with instances of engines being damaged by blue ice mentioned.

Cult host 'alien'-ates nation on cable

This piece highlights Dr. Franklin Ruehl Jr., a public access cable TV host from Glendale, California, whose show "Mysteries from Beyond the Other Dominion" is now airing on the national Sci-Fi Channel. Ruehl, a former nuclear physicist who turned to the paranormal, covers topics such as UFOs, extraterrestrial beings, and medical curiosities.

In search of the 'face' in space

This article discusses NASA's decision to photograph Martian features, including the 'face on Mars,' with the Mars Observer spacecraft. The photos taken in 1976 by Viking spacecraft showed features resembling a city and a face, which NASA attributes to tricks of sunlight and shadow. The Mars Observer's camera will provide much clearer images.

Elder recalls 'little people'

This report from Toatak, Alaska, features Kenneth Ashby, who recounts an encounter with 'Inukins' (similar to leprechauns) in 1938. Ashby describes being grabbed by these small beings dressed in caribou skins. The article notes that some locals still believe in these 'wee folk,' with one individual remaining unnamed due to fear of retribution. Ashby, however, is not afraid and shares further encounters.

'Wild men' sighted' in Pakistan

This article reports on the claims of two French researchers who suggest the existence of primitive humans, or 'wild men,' in northern Pakistan based on eyewitness accounts, guttural sounds, and strong smells. Dr. Chris Stringer of the Natural History Museum expresses skepticism, calling for hard evidence like bones or tissue. The researchers plan an expedition to Pakistan using infra-red cameras.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of personal experience, scientific inquiry, and skepticism regarding unexplained phenomena. There is a clear interest in UFOs, alien encounters, and Bigfoot sightings, with a focus on witness testimonies and the challenges of validating these claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, presenting various accounts and theories while also acknowledging the scientific and skeptical viewpoints. The magazine seems to encourage the sharing of these experiences, providing a platform for individuals to voice their accounts and for researchers to analyze them. The recurring theme is the persistent human fascination with the unknown and the ongoing quest for answers to profound mysteries.