UFO Newsclipping Service - 1997 02 - no 331

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated February 1997, Number 331, published by Lucius Farish, focuses on various UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across the United States. The cover story, "Wa-Hi UFO sighting: Fact or Frisbee?" from the Union Bulletin, details an incident where six high school students in Walla Walla, WA, captured a potential UFO on videotape, sparking debate about its nature.

Wa-Hi UFO Sighting: Fact or Frisbee?

The lead article by Richard S. Clayton reports on six students from Walla Walla High School who believe they have captured a UFO on videotape. The image, lasting less than two seconds, was recorded on September 11 while filming a rock video. The students and their instructor, Ginny Streeter, cannot explain the two small, flat objects that appeared on the tape, one of which looped back. Skeptics, like sophomore Andrew Largent, suggest it could be a Frisbee, as a PE class was playing nearby. However, the speed and trajectory of the objects, appearing to fly above trees and power poles, suggest otherwise. Meteorologist Mary Smith noted that lightning can strike horizontally, but couldn't confirm if it could loop back. Streeter confirmed the objects were not tape glitches. Junior Neville Eisler expressed a willingness to take a lie detector test and wants to send the tape to Science magazine. Peter Davenport, director of the National UFO Reporting Center, expressed interest in the tape, noting an increase in reports of discrete objects in the sky.

UFO Sightings in North Carolina

An article by Karen McConkey from King Times News describes a sighting on November 15, 1996, where Bill Foster and friends reported seeing three red flashing lights forming a triangle above treetops on US 601. The object traveled slowly and noiselessly, estimated to be the size of half a football field. George Fawcett of the Mutual UFO Network confirmed a similar sighting in the King/Winston-Salem area on December 16. Fawcett described the object as large and triangular with flashing red lights, moving slowly and noiselessly at low altitude. Stokes County Sheriff Mike Joyce and King Police Chief T.A. Patrick reported no official filings of such sightings in their jurisdictions. Fawcett is seeking reports from area residents.

Celestial Event Puzzles Star Gazers

An article by Phaedra Greenwood in The Taos News discusses a celestial event on November 13, 1996, where the town of Taos lit up as a bright light passed overhead. Eyewitnesses described it as a bright white light with ragged edges, trailing sparks, moving horizontally. Chris O'Brien reported sightings as far north as the San Luis Valley. Doug Revelle from Los Alamos National Laboratory noted that infrasonic ground sensors recorded data, but couldn't identify the object. He speculated it might be a large meteor. Revelle also mentioned unusual atmospheric effects seen globally around that time, including fireballs. He noted that while meteor showers like the Leonids and Geminids occur annually, the activity in November seemed unusual, possibly due to colliding asteroids or debris clouds.

Skywatch Diary (Pensacola Beach, FL)

Carole Baker's "Skywatch Diary" columns from January 8, 1997, and August 21, 1996, detail local UFO sightings and events. The January entry mentions sporadic skywatching due to fog and cold, but recounts two sightings from November 1996: one on November 20 where a witness saw "three bright red rings" that separated and rejoined, and another on November 27 with three witnesses observing "red glowing circles" doing the same. The August entry describes a sighting on August 10 of a "long, thin, cigar shaped object" at Shoreline Park. Baker also mentions MUFON meetings, the upcoming Gulf Breeze UFO Conference, and the release of a new Gulf Breeze UFO Book by Dr. Bruce Maccabee and Ed Walters.

Ogden Man is Now a Believer in UFOs

This Deseret News article by Zack Van Eyck reports on Jack Layton, a 77-year-old Ogden resident who became a believer in UFOs after witnessing an enormous egg-shaped object in the daylight sky. He attended a lecture by UFO researcher Robert Hastings, who presented documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act suggesting a government cover-up of UFO information. Hastings cited Air Force intelligence reports from 1948 and 1950, and CIA involvement in debunking UFO sightings since 1953, possibly influenced by the public reaction to "War of the Worlds."

'Experts': They're Out There, Watching

A Tribune-Herald article by Hunter Bishop discusses the first Pacific UFO Conference in Hilo, HI, organized by mayoral candidate Jonathan Adler. The conference featured speakers discussing alien abductions and UFO sightings. Adler suggested thousands of alien civilizations exist, and governments are conspiring to hide evidence. Speakers like Ret. USAF Lt. Col. Wendell Stevens and Robert Dean discussed various aspects of UFO phenomena, including alleged alien involvement in building the pyramids and the recovery of alien bodies. The article also mentions a UFO sighting in Waikiki captured on film by two tourists.

UFO Sightings Reported; Network Asks For More

This article from the King, NC, Times News, by Karen McConkey, reiterates the sighting reported by Bill Foster on November 15, 1996, involving three red flashing lights forming a triangle. It also mentions George Fawcett of the Mutual UFO Network documenting similar reports in the King/Winston-Salem area. The article includes a sketch of the UFO by Bill Foster and provides contact information for Fawcett.

Book focuses on Pennsylvania UFO encounters

A Tribune-Review article by Rege Behe introduces Bob Teets, who is seeking stories for his book "Pennsylvania UFOs: Close Encounters in the Keystone State." Teets, who previously published "West Virginia UFOs," believes the UFO phenomenon is largely ignored by mainstream news. He suggests that some UFO sightings might be government cover-ups for experimental aircraft, while others could be evidence of non-human intelligence predating human society.

Ball of Light Leaves Scientists in the Dark

An article from the Omaha World-Herald by Julie Anderson reports on a strange ball of light captured on videotape by Creighton University researchers over Sarpy County, NE. The object appeared to blast upward at an incredible speed. Scientists, including assistant professor Dean Morss, are stumped, though Morss does not believe it was a UFO, suggesting it might be an electrical effect like "Elves" or "red sprites." Stanford University researchers confirmed "Elves" flash across the sky in rings. The video was taken by Air Force Lt. Paul McCrone.

Noble farmers quietly report two crop circles

This News Sentinel article reports on two crop circles found in Noble County, Indiana, which farmers did not report immediately for fear of damage to their crops. Investigator Roger Sugden and a research team visited the sites. The article mentions theories involving atmospheric phenomena, such as ion plasma vortexes, and dismisses prankster theories due to the lack of tracks. It also references a crop circle found in Paulding, Ohio, which BLT Research Team attributed to atmospheric energies.

Regional: Residents see mysterious light

An Amarillo Globe-News report, reprinted in the Guymon, OK Herald, describes a mysterious red light seen over Amarillo, Texas, on January 1, 1997. Witnesses described the light as stopping, starting, zigzagging, and shooting beams. The object eventually disappeared. The family who reported it speculated it could be a hot air balloon or blimp, but police also received calls about the object.

'Crop Circle' Still Perplexing For Many in Butte, Neb., Area

This Omaha World-Herald article by Paul Hammel discusses a crop circle found in a barley field near Butte, Neb. Sheriff Duane Pavel believes it was not vandalism, citing theories of complex atmospheric phenomena. Researcher Joe Nickell Sr. of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, however, suggests it was a prank. The article mentions W.C. Levengood's theory of ion plasma vortexes and the involvement of the Mutual UFO Network.

He doesn't swear they're out there

An Associated Press article by Michael Hill profiles UFO researcher Michael Craft and his book "Alien Impact." Craft explores various UFO tales, including abductions, subterranean bases, and crop circles, suggesting that while aliens might exist, other explanations like prankster spirits, electromagnetic phenomena, or higher consciousness should also be considered. Craft emphasizes the need to cope with the phenomenon rather than deny it. The article also mentions David Jacobs, a Temple professor who believes in abduction stories but finds Craft's conference not academically rigorous. It highlights the conference's speakers and its organizer, Bob Eure, who aims to make Philadelphia a UFO center.

UFO museum moving

A Daily Record article reports that the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, NM, is moving to the old Plains Theater Building. The new location will offer more space and new exhibits. The museum has seen a significant increase in visitors since opening in 1991.

Local men spot strange object

This Daily American article reports on two men from West Frankfort, IL, who claim to have seen a UFO while deer hunting. They described it as a round, flat, silver object that made no noise. Officer Ray Blades at the West Frankfort Police Department stated no UFO reports had been filed in Franklin County.

Readers asked to report UFO sightings in area

An article in the Clackamas County News asks readers to report UFO sightings in the Estacada, Eagle Creek, and Colton areas. A reader who has sketched UFOs from her home is seeking information from other potential witnesses.

Weekly UFO Roundup

This section from The Beacon includes several brief reports: a reputed alien captured in Northern Israel, a UFO spotted in Central Georgia near Robins Air Force Base, a UFO sighting by researcher Bill Hamilton in Phoenix, Arizona, and continued sightings in the Camarillo, California area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, and the persistent question of government cover-ups. There's a strong emphasis on witness testimonies, ranging from high school students to seasoned investigators. The articles explore various explanations for sightings, including natural phenomena, hoaxes, and the possibility of extraterrestrial origins. The issue also highlights the cultural impact of UFO beliefs, the efforts of UFO researchers and organizations, and the ongoing public fascination with the subject, particularly in light of events like the Roswell Incident and the growing media attention. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting different perspectives and encouraging readers to consider the evidence and possibilities without necessarily endorsing any single explanation.

This issue of FOREIGN NEWS, dated October 4, 1996, from the Gazette, Clacton, England, focuses on the persistent mystery and public interest surrounding UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The cover headline, "The TRUTH is OUT THERE," and a prominent photograph of Ron West, chairman of the Essex UFO Research Group, set the tone for an issue filled with eyewitness accounts, expert opinions, and discussions of alleged government cover-ups.

Feature Article: Ron West and the Essex UFO Research Group

The main article, "Eyes to the skies for Ron and his fellow UFO enthusiasts," introduces Ron West, who shares his experiences and theories about UFOs. West, a seasoned investigator, recounts a personal sighting of two orange lights that he initially mistook for an AA van. He discusses the group's methods, including using camcorders and night-sights, and their dedication to investigating sightings, sometimes staying out until 5 am. West expresses a belief that "something is out there" but is open to possibilities beyond extraterrestrial origins, suggesting interdimensional or even time-travel explanations. He mentions historical UFO incidents like Roswell, Area 51, and Kenneth Arnold's flight as significant in ufology. The article highlights the skepticism faced by ufologists, with West humorously noting that even a UFO landing on the White House might be dismissed as a hoax. He also touches upon the recent news of potential life on Mars, stating that ufologists have long considered such possibilities. The piece concludes by emphasizing the ongoing quest for truth and provides contact information for the Essex UFO Research Group.

Regional Sightings and Reports

Several smaller articles detail specific UFO sightings from various regions:

• Walthamstow, London: Roy Lake, a UFO specialist, reports an increase in sightings, with a man describing a "triangular and orange UFO" on the same night as a lunar eclipse. Lake notes a significant rise in reports from 3 in September last year to 40 this year, including sightings of a triangular object with green lights.
• Monmouthshire, Gwent, Wales: A motorist reported seeing a "black, flat, ragged-edged object, measuring 15 ft by 12 ft," on the A40 near Raglan Services, likened to a solar panel.
• North Worcestershire, England: Several readers reported seeing a bright, triangular light that fluctuated and hovered in the sky, with no explanation from police or UFO investigator John Hanson.
• Stenhousemuir, Scotland: A local family, Audrey Batchelor, Jim Donnelly, and Claire, were baffled by a "brightly-coloured object hovering in the sky with a series of flashing lights around it," which vanished quickly.
• Wilsden, England: UFO hunters are investigating after bright-colored crafts were spotted twice over the village. Retired lorry driver Thomas Daw described a brightly lit object moving silently and slowly, with Leeds Bradford Airport and West Yorkshire Police having no explanation.
• Glenrothes, Scotland: Edward Preston reported seeing a "perfectly equilateral triangle" in the sky, noting its texture and silent movement. A spokesman from RAF Leuchars stated no aircraft were over Glenrothes at that time.
• South Lincolnshire coast, England: Police, the RAF, and shipping reported "strange" bright lights, described as large objects with flashing blue, white, red, and green lights, above the Wash. The Ministry of Defence is investigating.
• Southport, England: UFO expert Tim Matthews claims the UK and USA governments are covering up the truth about mysterious craft sightings. He presented leaked documents suggesting a policy to "play down the subject of UFOs" and discussed sightings of black triangular craft and a white, jellyfish-shaped object.
• Oxford, England: David Packham and his mother Edith reported seeing a "round, bright-green light hovering" accompanied by a loud whining sound from their TV, which ceased after the light moved away.
• Earl Shilton, England: Trevor Radford reported seeing an object described as "square or oblong shape, with substantial depth," moving in a straight line at a consistent height and speed.
• Metheringham, England: Two women reported seeing a "strange white light which hovered over their car" before disappearing when the car stopped.
• Harborough, England: Multiple sightings of mysterious objects are reported, including a "disc shape with a dark centre surrounded by edge spikes" and a "dark shape with a silver skirting."
• Lake Brosno, Russia: Residents report sightings of a large aquatic beast, with one man snapping a photo of a creature floating on the surface, likened to a serpent or a fish-headed creature.

Special Features and Themes

• The X-Files: The popular TV show is frequently referenced as increasing public interest in UFOs and paranormal subjects.
• Bigfoot: An article details the ongoing pursuit of Bigfoot by Peter Byrne and his research project, discussing historical accounts, the controversial Patterson film, and the challenges of finding irrefutable evidence.
• The Philadelphia Experiment: The legendary tale of a secret Navy experiment that allegedly made a ship invisible or sent it through time is recounted, with a spokesman denying any such event occurred.
• Cattle Mutilations: The phenomenon of cattle mutilations is discussed, with speculation pointing towards cultists or extraterrestrials, and the California Cattlemen's Association taking the matter seriously.
• Government Cover-up: A recurring theme throughout the issue is the suspicion that governments are withholding information about UFOs and related phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the persistent belief in extraterrestrial or other paranormal entities, and the widespread suspicion of government cover-ups. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without definitively endorsing any single explanation, but acknowledging the growing public fascination and the need for further investigation. The articles encourage readers to share their own experiences, indicating a desire to document and explore these mysteries further.