UFO Newsclipping Service - 1997 04 - no 333

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated April 1997, Number 333, is published by Lucius Farish and features a cover headline about a UFO and ET conference in Victorville. It also poses the question, 'Is U.S. spaced out on outer space?'

UFO, ET Conference Takes Off in Victorville

This article reports on the first day of the UFO and ET Phenomena Conference in Victorville, California. Approximately 200 people attended, with 'abductees' and 'contac-tees' sharing their experiences. Former pilots presented photos of unidentified flying craft, and ufologists discussed military coverups and government conspiracies. The event, organized by William Holden, aimed to encourage attendees to do their own research and make their own conclusions about UFOs and ETs. Despite initial low attendance and financial concerns, Holden expressed determination that the message needed to be heard.

Strange Encounters

This section highlights the personal experiences of attendees at the Victorville conference. Dan Stingley of Riverside described his memories of alien contacts, which he believes were largely benevolent and aimed at preventing humanity from destroying the planet. He remembers little of the contacts, as aliens reportedly induce amnesia before returning him.

Is U.S. Spaced Out on Outer Space?

This article by M.L. Lyke explores the pervasive presence of UFO culture in America, noting its prevalence in supermarket tabloids, on the internet, and in blockbuster movies. It cites a Gallup Poll from September 1996, revealing that 87% of Americans have heard about UFOs, 12% have seen something they thought was a UFO, and 45% believe UFOs have visited Earth. The article also touches on the skepticism surrounding abduction claims, with figures like Bill Nye ('Science Guy') dismissing them as unreasonable. It questions whether the constant exposure to aliens in media might be a form of conditioning. The article also includes statistics on American beliefs regarding extraterrestrial life and government knowledge of UFOs.

UFOs in the U.S.A. (Gallup Poll Data)

• 87 percent of Americans have read or heard about UFOs.
• 12 percent have seen something they thought was a UFO.
• 45 percent think UFOs have visited Earth in some form.
• 48 percent believe UFOs are 'something real.'
• 71 percent believe the U.S. government knows more about UFOs than it is telling.

Close Encounters

The article defines 'close encounters' (CE1, CE2, CE3) and discusses 'alien abductees' who report experiences like sperm removal for hybrid breeding and being carried into spacecraft. Hypnotherapist Sharon Filip notes that most abductees are sane and educated individuals who have had unusual experiences, often waking with unexplained marks or fears. Skeptics, however, suggest mass hysteria, and astronomer Carl Sagan questioned the validity of abduction claims without rigorous evidence.

Local UFO Group Has Its First Meeting

This report by Darren Marcy details the inaugural meeting of a local UFO interest group in Farmington, New Mexico. Over 100 people attended to discuss the formation of the group, which aims to cover UFOs, alien abductions, cattle mutilations, and unidentified sightings. Organizers Clark Hathaway and Dr. Richard O'Neill envision a monthly meeting for sharing information, bringing in speakers, and conducting investigations. Many attendees shared personal experiences, with eight claiming multiple sightings and four reporting abductions. The group plans to address the need for an abduction support group.

Notable Cases Mentioned

• Clark Hathaway's childhood sighting in San Miguel, California, in 1952, and subsequent warning from a military officer.
• Cheri James' research into a local UFO crash in Hart Canyon near Aztec in 1948.
• A sighting on February 9, 1996, of a green light that split into two, observed for two hours traveling 40 miles.

UFO Sites on Internet

This section provides a list of websites dedicated to UFOs and alien abductions, including the Center for UFO Studies (cufos.org), the International Roswell Initiative (roswell.org), and various other resources for sighting reports and conspiracy information.

Monroe Men Documenting UFOs

This article by Mike Leonard profiles John Tosti and Lynn Taylor, two men from Monroe County, Indiana, who are dedicated skywatchers documenting UFO phenomena. They have collected hours of videotape of unexplained lights and objects. They note that UFO sightings are more frequent in mid to late winter. The men have observed military aircraft in tandem with UFOs, leading to speculation about government involvement or monitoring of experimental aircraft. They aim to raise public awareness and add to the body of information on the subject, acknowledging that such experiences can be life-changing.

UFO, Debate Goes On

This article from the Daily Courier reports on an officer with the Prescott Valley Police Department who claims to have seen helicopters, which he believes were UFOs. Peter B. Davenport of the National UFO Reporting Center (NUFORC) disputes this, stating the object could not have been conventional aircraft due to its speed and the nature of its lights. The article mentions reports from other areas of Arizona and Luke Air Force Base's response to inquiries about the sightings.

'The Unexplained': The Rest of the UFO Story?

This review by Olin Chism discusses the A&E cable network series 'The Unexplained,' which aims to provide a more balanced look at UFO claims, giving skeptics a platform. The first episode, 'UFOs vs. the Government,' examines four reported sightings dismissed by government investigators. The article notes the show's dramatic re-enactments and interviews with witnesses and skeptics, highlighting the recurring theme of government cover-up. The review suggests that while the show doesn't alienate believers, it doesn't ignore non-believers either.

Current Case Studies (from 'The Unexplained')

• Lee County: Mysterious tracks found since 1993, possibly from an object weighing 35 pounds and no taller than 18 inches.
• Byron area: Two officers reported seeing a UFO following a train in 1991.
• Rock Falls: A 1980 encounter outside Rock Falls.
• Dixon airport: A 1991 sighting of a brightly lit object hovering near a gravel road.

S. Iowa Believes We Are Not Alone

This article by Lynn Okamoto introduces a UFO interest group in Wapello County, Iowa, led by Daryl Stangl. The group, comprising teachers, nurses, and farmers, meets to discuss UFOs and personal experiences. Stangl shares his own childhood UFO encounter and believes that many people have experienced unexplained phenomena, including alien abductions and cattle mutilations, but are reluctant to speak out due to fear of ridicule. The group aims to provide a supportive environment for those who have had such experiences.

UFO Interest Group Meeting

The next meeting is scheduled for December 15th at the civic center.

Fayette a Hotbed of Unexplained Phenomena

This article by S. Gordon details Stan Gordon's extensive research into UFO and Bigfoot sightings in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, which he describes as a 'hotbed' of such phenomena. Gordon, who operates a UFO hotline, has investigated over 14,000 cases since the 1960s. He recounts a 1973 incident in West Leisenring involving a UFO and Bigfoot-like creatures, which he considers a classic case. The article notes that the county has historically seen unusual activity, with theories about its cause remaining elusive. Gordon believes that increased media coverage has made people more willing to report sightings.

Who Sees UFOs? Those Who Believe in UFOs

This article by Joan O'Brien discusses research by University of Utah psychology professor Shaun Vecera, who suggests that belief and expectations influence visual perception, potentially explaining why some people 'see' UFOs, ghosts, or aliens. The article contrasts this with the experiences of UFO believers like Mildred Biesele, director of the Mutual Unidentified Flying Object Network's state chapter, who argues that open-minded investigation is key. It also touches on the media's role in perpetuating beliefs in the paranormal and the concept of false memories.

Skywatch Diary (Pensacola Beach, FL)

This diary entry by Carole Baker reports on a sighting on October 18th of a craft described as 'sombrero type hat' shaped, about 15-20 feet across, with an orange-red light that sped off toward the water. The entry also mentions a loud 'boom' heard on October 29th, which may be related to UFO activity, and a television show featuring UFO video footage.

Fayette a Hotbed of Unexplained Phenomena (Continued)

This continuation of the article discusses Stan Gordon's research, including a 1973 incident in West Leisenring, Pennsylvania, involving a UFO and Bigfoot-like creatures. Gordon believes Fayette County is a 'hotbed' for unexplained phenomena. He notes that increased media attention has made people more willing to report sightings. The article also mentions the historical context of UFO sightings and the role of the media in making people more open to reporting such events.

Who Sees UFOs? Those Who Believe in UFOs (Continued)

This continuation of the article discusses the psychological aspects of belief and perception in relation to UFO sightings. It highlights the work of Professor Shaun Vecera and the views of UFO believers like Mildred Biesele. The article also touches on the media's influence and the concept of false memories.

Skywatch Diary (Pensacola Beach, FL) - Feb. 5, 1997

Carole Baker's diary entry discusses the lack of sightings in early 1997 due to weather but reports on a cattle mutilation incident in Summerdale, Alabama, involving a cow found dead with a large opening and missing skin. The entry details the investigation and notes similarities to other cattle mutilation cases. It also mentions a sighting of a large, oval-shaped craft with lights going up and down a central bar, and another report of an anomalous bright light in the sky.

Film Shows a UFO Hit

This article by Tim O'Brien introduces the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO) and its executive director, Rev. William Heft. APRO is presenting a film of UFO evidence that Heft claims is extraordinary. The article details APRO's history and its role in investigating UFO reports. It mentions specific case studies, including mysterious tracks in Lee County and a UFO sighting near the Dixon airport. The article also highlights APRO's stance of neutrality, gathering facts without taking a position on the nature of UFOs.

APRO (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization)

Founded in 1952, APRO aims to provide a place for reporting UFO experiences without ridicule, conduct comparative studies of reports, and serve as a source of information.

Skywatch Diary (Pensacola Beach, FL) - March 5, 1997

Carole Baker's diary entry discusses the weather impacting skywatching and mentions the upcoming 5th Annual Gulf Breeze UFO Conference. It highlights speakers like Courtney Brown, PhD, who will discuss remote viewing and extraterrestrial civilizations, and Whitley Strieber, who will present on the 'UFO Knowledge Explosion.' The entry also notes the conference will feature a panel discussion on 'Ufology - Where Are We Now and What Have We Learned.'

Alien Art Invades Area This Weekend

This article profiles Riley Martin, who claims to have been abducted by aliens as a child and has since had multiple encounters. Martin shares his experiences and exhibits his art, which he says are downloaded symbols from alien friends. He is the co-author of 'The Coming of Tan,' chronicling his trips to a mother ship. The article notes that Martin will deliver a seminar and exhibit his art, with his collaborator, Tan (O-Qua Tangin Wann), also involved. Martin's story is presented with a degree of skepticism, but the article highlights the growing public interest in UFOs, citing popular media like 'The X-Files.'

Abducted UFOs

This section, from the Sunday World-Herald, discusses the cultural fascination with UFOs and alien stories, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Roswell Incident. It notes the prevalence of UFO-related content in media and literature, and the ongoing debate about whether UFOs are real or explainable phenomena. The article presents the views of Don Jensen, a psychology professor who attributes sightings to rational means like negative afterimages or abnormal brain activity, and Scott Colborn, owner of The Way Home bookstore, who believes in the reality of UFO phenomena and government cover-ups.

A Short History of Sightings in Nebraska

This sidebar provides a brief history of UFO sightings in Nebraska, starting with reports in 1897 and continuing through various decades. It mentions the highly publicized case of Ashland police officer Herb Schirmer in 1963 and the skepticism he faced.

Are They Real? It Depends on Whom You Ask

This article by Cindy Lange-Kubick explores the differing perspectives on UFOs. Psychology professor Don Jensen argues that belief influences perception and that many sightings can be explained by mundane phenomena. In contrast, UFO believers like Mildred Biesele and Scott Colborn maintain that unexplained phenomena warrant study and that governments may be covering up information. The article highlights the contrast between scientific skepticism and the conviction of those who have had personal experiences.

Additional Reading

This section lists several books related to UFOs and alien abduction.

Believers Gather to Share Their Stories

This article describes a support group for individuals who have had unexplained encounters, meeting at The Way Home bookstore in Lincoln, Nebraska. Members share stories of alien encounters, abductions, and strange phenomena, finding understanding and validation among peers. Linda Hannaford, Vicki Stadler, John and Annie Foster, Mary and Fred, and others are mentioned as participants. The group provides a space to escape feelings of isolation and being misunderstood. The article also touches on the possibility of interdimensional or time-traveling visitors and the perceived government cover-up of information.

More Area Residents Saying They Saw UFO

This brief report notes an increase in UFO sightings reported in the Prescott, Arizona area, with residents calling in to report seeing objects in the sky. Peter B. Davenport of NUFORC confirms a surge in calls. Local residents like Kim Keller and Kirk Olson offer their perspectives, with some speculating about military aircraft or National Guard helicopters.

Pentagon Halted UFO Inquiries in 1969

This brief news item states that the U.S. military stopped tracking UFO inquiries in 1969, concluding there was no extraterrestrial threat. The Air Force investigated reports from 1947 to 1969 but found no evidence of exotic technology or threats. The practice was stopped because most UFOs were explainable.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the growing public fascination with UFOs and alien encounters, fueled by media and popular culture. There is a clear divide between scientific skepticism, which seeks rational explanations for sightings, and the conviction of believers who have had personal experiences and suspect government cover-ups. The articles explore the psychological aspects of belief and perception, the formation of UFO interest groups, and the ongoing documentation of sightings by researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on the phenomenon and the various perspectives surrounding it, without taking a definitive side, though some articles lean towards validating the experiences of believers.

This issue of FOREIGN NEWS, dated October 3, 1996, focuses heavily on UFO sightings, secret craft theories, and government investigations into unexplained phenomena. The main cover headline, "Secret craft theory on UFO," is complemented by a sub-headline, "RAF IN X-FILE ALERT!" indicating a significant focus on official responses to UFO reports.

Secret Craft Theory on UFO

This article explores the possibility that some UFO sightings might be explained by secret test flights of experimental craft developed jointly by NASA and the US Air Force. The sighting by crews of two Eyemouth fishing boats on February 14th is investigated by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), who concluded it was a "sighting of unusual characteristics." The object was described as triangular and black with 15 red lights, traveling slowly and detected on radar. George Niedzwiedz of Coldingham, investigating for BUFORA, noted the craft's unusual characteristics, including the lack of anti-collision lights and its slow speed despite its size. He also highlights that the Ministry of Defence denied the presence of any aircraft, including two fighter jets that overflew the boats 15 minutes later. The Civil Aviation Authority confirmed no airships were in the area, and the region was beyond their radar capabilities. The article speculates if the "Loflyte" (Low Observable Flight Test Experiment) craft, developed by NASA and the USAF, could be responsible, questioning how such a craft could be detected by fishing boat radar.

RAF In X-File Alert!

This section reveals that the British government has sensationally admitted that aliens from outer space may be visiting Britain. Defence Minister Earl Frederick Howe stated in a letter that ALL RAF station commanders are under orders to report UFO sightings. The letter was sent to Don Valley Labour MP Martin Redmond, who is concerned about a UFO with a red and green rotating light seen over East Anglia. This object was tracked by radar at RAF Neatishead and RAF Northwood for several hours. Mr. Redmond accuses the government of covering up information on UFOs, stating that the answers given lead him to believe there is something more to this and that the issue is shrouded in secrecy. Defence Minister Nicholas Soames refused to reveal how many UFOs RAF pilots have spotted since 1966, citing cost. Earl Howe replied that the RAF does not respond unless there is evidence UK airspace has been "compromised," but added that "unidentified contacts penetrating UK airspace are identified by all available means including intervention."

Sightings Off Coast Tracked by Air Base

Reports of a bright white shining object in the sky off the county coast were received by Skegness and Boston Police and the coastguard. The Ministry of Defence and RAF officials are investigating. RAF Neatishead detected the object on its radars for several hours, moving at a speed suggesting it wasn't a weather balloon. The MoD has a special cell that investigates all reported UFO sightings.

Alien Goings On In Space

This brief report mentions a further sighting of a triangular-shaped spaceship in Derby, seen by Mavis Castledine on two occasions. Omar Fowler of the Phenomenon Research Association notes a large increase in UFO activity.

UFOs Have Got Hots For City

This article discusses a rise in sightings of bizarre objects over Derby, particularly in Littleover. Teenager Steven Potts and amateur astronomer Jonathan Franklin reported seeing a large, silent, flashing triangle shape. Omar Fowler of Phenomenon Research Association believes these are "new type of UFO" that are alien-controlled and surveying Earth.

Late-Night UFO Is a Puzzler

Two retired couples in Taunton reported seeing a UFO with hundreds of bright white lights, described as a "cricket pitch" long, above Ruishton village hall. The object disappeared instantly. Sue Hembury-Kellow of the Somerset UFO Research Group suggests it might be Hercules aircraft, but asks the MoD if any were active on the night in question.

'UFO Sighting By Driver'

A woman in Bangor reported seeing a triangular-shaped flying object with green and red lights over the Menai Straits. The object was silent and moved slowly. Dr. Colin Ridyard, who investigates UFO sightings, is appealing for witnesses.

Unidentified Light In The Sky Taped

Margaret Ross, a grandmother from Falkirk, Scotland, captured video footage of a pulsating, bright object that transformed into a half-moon shape with four diagonal bars. Experts believe this is significant footage, with Ron Halliday calling it "one of the best footages I have ever seen." Archie Roy, emeritus professor of physics and astronomy, stated that about 92% of sightings can be explained, but this falls into the 8% that science cannot recognize.

Valley Teeming With Crystal Skulls, Weird Lights In Sky

This article focuses on Crestone, Colorado, described as a place with a high concentration of strange activity, including cattle mutilations, unexplained lights, and rocks with magical properties. Christopher O'Brien, who chronicled these events in his book "The Mysterious Valley," has collected over 600 unexplained UFO sightings. One account details Donna Koch finding a crystal skull that seemed to cause bizarre accidents. Brian Norton, Rio Grande County undersheriff, has seen many odd lights but attributes them to secret military activity. The article also mentions David Jaramillo finding a mutilated cow and circles pressed into the ground, suggesting an aircraft landing.

'Puma' Spotted Again

Ellen Green, 17, reported seeing a large brown puma-like creature outside Norwich, which unnerved her and her horse. Experts do not rule out the possibility of a wild cat in Norfolk, citing other inexplicable animal sightings.

Sea Serpents Sighted In Puget Sound

This piece revisits reports of sea serpent sightings in Puget Sound, dating back to 1969. David Miller reported an encounter in 1969 with a creature with large red eyes. The article also mentions the "hiyitl'iik" of the Manhousat people and the Skagit River atlatl. Osmond Fergusson reported seeing a sea monster in 1897, and fisherman Philip Welch reported a similar sighting in 1905. A 1893 encounter described a "horrible looking monster" with six eyes and blue flames. Sightings continued in British Columbia waters in the 1930s, and the phenomenon was named "Cadborosaurus."

Zapped By Space Aliens? Satellite Goes AWOL

This article reports on the failure of the Telstar 401 communications satellite. While no one believes aliens destroyed it, the cause remains unknown. The satellite transmitted signals for major networks and companies, and its failure caused significant disruption.

Tiger Sightings On The Increase

This report details recent sightings of Tasmanian tigers, an extinct species, in East Gippsland, Australia. Samantha Humes reported seeing one, and local residents and researchers are convinced they are real, with about 40 reported sightings since the 1960s.

Mystery of Block Ness Monster

A 14-foot serpentine skeleton, nicknamed the "Block Ness Monster," found by fishermen on Block Island, has vanished. The skeleton was displayed publicly, and its disappearance has sparked speculation, with some believing it was stolen to keep it on the island.

Water Music In Sand

Canadian researchers have explained the mystery of "singing" sands. They found clusters of water in an amorphous silica layer on the sand grain's surface, which allows some grains to stick together and act as a resonator, producing sounds when the sand moves.

'Sightings' Sighted In Taos

The TV show "Sightings" interviewed attorney John Paternoster about cattle mutilations in Northern New Mexico. The show also interviewed Carlos Trujillo, whose cow was found mutilated, and Michael Abbey, a local investigator. The New Mexico State Livestock Board has investigated about 25 cases of unexplained cattle deaths since 1994, but Gail Staehlin believes there is a cover-up and advocates for a forensic testing team.

The O-fish-al Nessie Hunt

This brief note mentions the new Loch Ness Society's plan to use fish offal and oils to lure the Loch Ness Monster to the surface for filming.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the government's involvement or lack thereof in investigating these events. There's a clear fascination with the unknown, ranging from extraterrestrial encounters to cryptids like sea serpents and Big Foot, and even paranormal occurrences like crystal skulls and mysterious lights. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena with a degree of seriousness, presenting witness accounts and expert opinions, while also acknowledging the skepticism and the challenges in obtaining definitive explanations. The inclusion of government responses, such as the RAF alert, suggests an acknowledgment of the public's interest and the need for official channels to address such reports, even if the explanations remain elusive.