UFO Newsclipping Service - 1997 08 - no 337

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated August 1997, focuses on the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident and the broader phenomenon of unidentified flying objects. The cover story, "Faces from space," highlights the artistic contributions of David C. Baker, who is credited with creating the widely recognized image of an alien based on the famous Betty and Barney Hill abduction account.

Key Articles and Features

"Faces from space" by Dana Bisbee

This article delves into the work of David C. Baker, an 81-year-old artist from New Hampshire. Baker's sketches, created over 30 years ago, are presented as the definitive visual representation of extraterrestrials, particularly those described by Betty and Barney Hill following their alleged 1961 abduction. The article explains how Baker's friendship with Betty Hill and her psychiatrist, Dr. Benjamin Simon, led to him drawing the aliens based on hypnotic recall sessions. Baker, a believer in UFOs, considers his sketches not as original art but as independent evidence contributing to proof of alien visitation. His depictions are compared to the alien corpse shown in the purported Roswell autopsy film, noting that Baker drew them decades before the film surfaced, which he sees as corroboration.

"Capturing picture-perfect UFOs"

This section offers practical tips for amateur photographers interested in capturing UFO sightings. It advises having a loaded camera ready, taking many pictures, trying for eye contact with potential visitors, using flash cautiously, and keeping backgrounds simple. It also humorously suggests storing film in lead-lined containers marked "Classified Information."

"Alleged UFO Fragment Unveiled" (Journal, Albuquerque, NM)

This article reports on a press conference where a chemist, Russell VernonClark, a movie producer (Paul Davids), and a hypnotherapist announced they had tested a fragment of alleged Roswell crash debris. VernonClark claimed the material was "of extraterrestrial origin" due to its unique atomic makeup, differing significantly from any known earthly matter. The fragment itself was not produced, citing security reasons, and details about the testing methodology and other institutions involved were withheld, leading to skepticism about potential hoaxes.

"'Whatzits' in sky remain a mystery" (Times-Dispatch, Richmond, VA)

This piece revisits the 1973 UFO sightings in Sussex, Virginia, where a "saucerlike structure with 'Christmas treelike lights'" was observed. The event drew significant media attention and numerous witnesses. Despite the 20th NORAD Division reporting no UFOs on radar at the time, the sightings remain unexplained. The article also includes an account from a former Sheriff's Chief Deputy, Mo Williams, who witnessed a strange circular object moving along U.S. 460, which he could not identify.

"A hypothesis spins to life" (Crescent-News, Defiance, OH)

This article discusses research by the BTL Research Team in Cambridge, Massachusetts, concerning soil and plant samples from a crop circle in Paulding County, Ohio. Researchers believe there is a 95% chance the formation was caused by atmospheric plasma vortices. The study found significant node length alterations in wheat, high concentrations of magnetic iron particles within the formation, and microscopic characteristics of magnetic particles indicating meteorotic origins. Nancy Talbott and Dr. W.C. Levengood led the research, which suggests these vortices are responsible for crop formations.

"Roswell 50 years later: Case closed?" (STAR, Mena, AR)

Edward Mazur, Arkansas state director for MUFON, expresses skepticism about the government's changing explanations for the Roswell incident. He criticizes the Air Force's claims that the Roswell debris was from parachute-test dummies or weather balloons, calling them "scraping the bottom of the barrel." Mazur argues that the government's reluctance to disclose information about UFOs stems from a fear of diminishing its power and eroding public trust. He also references a 1960 Brookings Institute study suggesting that contact with a superior extraterrestrial race could be detrimental to indigenous societies. Mazur believes there may have been dialogue between governments and extraterrestrials, possibly contributing to rapid technological advancements.

"SeaTac artist paints alien 'mug shots'" (Highline News, Burien, WA)

This article profiles David Chace, a 26-year-old artist in SeaTac, Washington, who creates portraits of aliens based on descriptions from individuals who report alien abductions. Chace's work is featured in an exhibit titled "They Came Here First" at the Seattle Center Contemporary Art. The article includes an account from Evelyn McNutt of Bothell, who claims to have been abducted multiple times and whose descriptions have been painted by Chace. McNutt describes the experience as frightening and wishes to forget it, while Chace believes aliens may use advanced technologies like time travel or interdimensional travel.

"Roswell revisited" (Breeze, Costa Mesa, CA)

This piece reflects on the author's personal UFO sighting in 1966 near Prophetstown, Illinois, of a large, oval-shaped orange object. The author criticizes the Air Force's explanation of the Roswell incident as test dummies, finding it unbelievable and damaging to military credibility. The author's own experience, along with the lack of a military response to their inquiry, leads them to keep an open mind about the Roswell case and other UFO sightings.

"NO ALIEN CONCEPT" (Breeze, Costa Mesa, CA)

This article discusses the local chapter of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) in Orange County, California. The group consists of professionals from various scientific fields who investigate UFO sightings. Investigator Alanis explains their methodology, which includes collecting witness accounts and potential physical evidence, though no definitive evidence of alien craft has been found. MUFON officials emphasize that they are researchers, not worshippers, and distinguish themselves from cult groups. They believe the government may possess information about UFOs and are seeking disclosure.

"UFO watchers in alien-ated state" (Post, New York, NY)

This article reports on a feud between rival UFO research camps: Michael Luckman of the New York Center for UFO Research and Kent Jeffrey, an airline pilot who previously advocated for government disclosure on UFOs. Luckman accuses Jeffrey of betraying the cause by arranging for a psychologist, Neil Hibler, to hypnotize Jesse Marcel Jr., whose clients are allegedly linked to government agencies that would suppress UFO information. Jeffrey, now convinced the Roswell crash is a myth, has written a report debunking it, stating "No UFO crashed at Roswell... It did not happen. Period."

"U.F.O. Believers and Debunkers Thrive on the Web" (Times, New York, NY)

This article explores the presence of UFO-related content on the Internet, noting the proliferation of conspiracy theories and pseudo-science alongside more serious research. It highlights websites of organizations like Uforia, the National UFO Reporting Center, MUFON, and the International UFO Museum and Research Center. The article also points to skeptical resources such as James Randi's website and the Committee for Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (Csicop), which aim to debunk paranormal claims, including those related to the Roswell incident and alien autopsy films.

"Wise experts treat 'saucers' seriously" (State Journal, Lansing, MI)

This piece reflects on the historical treatment of UFO sightings by officials and scientists, noting that early reports were often dismissed or ridiculed. It contrasts the dismissive attitude towards UFO witnesses with the respectful approach taken by entomologists when identifying insects. The author suggests that this historical dismissal drove people towards less credible sources. The article notes a shift towards more courteous treatment of UFO reports by agencies like the Air Force and FAA, and highlights the work of Abrams Planetarium in treating callers with respect. It concludes by advocating for the science and aviation community to treat UFOs as a serious subject.

"Saucer sightings?" (Bee, Fresno, CA)

This article features Manuel Amparano, a former Fresno County sheriff's deputy who has been seeking evidence of UFOs since 1978. He recounts his 1978 sighting of a football-shaped object glowing brightly. Amparano believes his experience may have hindered his career. The article also mentions Roy Yates, a UFO activist and director for MUFON in Fresno, who began his interest in UFOs in 1947. The piece notes that while many people believe UFOs are real, explanations often fail to satisfy believers.

"Military secret prompted cover-up stories about UFO, spy planes"

This article discusses the historical context of UFO sightings, including "foo fighters" during WWII and "ghost rockets" in Scandinavia in 1946. It references Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and the subsequent wave of "flying saucer" reports across the U.S. The article touches upon the Air Force's evolving explanations for the Roswell incident, from "crashed flying saucer" to "weather balloon" and, more recently, "parachute-test dummies." It also mentions the destruction of Roswell Army-Air Force Field message traffic from 1947 and the General Accounting Office's inability to find significant Roswell-related documents.

"UFO Valley: As the 50th anniversary of the UFO era approaches, sightings continue, and explanations still don't satisfy believers."

This article focuses on Manuel Amparano's personal UFO sighting and his belief that it impacted his career. It also introduces Roy Yates, a UFO activist and MUFON director, who has been involved in UFO research since 1947. The article notes the increase in media attention surrounding the 50th anniversary of the UFO era and highlights that despite ongoing sightings, explanations often fail to satisfy believers. It includes poll data indicating that a significant portion of Americans believe UFOs are real and that the U.S. government knows more than it reveals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring mystery of UFOs, the 50th anniversary of the Roswell incident, the role of eyewitness accounts and artistic renditions in shaping public perception, and the ongoing debate about government transparency and potential cover-ups. The editorial stance, as suggested by the publication's name and the content selection, appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, giving credence to witness testimonies and exploring various theories, while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and official explanations.

This document is a collection of articles from various newspapers and magazines, primarily focusing on UFO sightings, alien abductions, and related paranormal phenomena. The earliest report dates back to The Fresno Bee on July 6, 1947, detailing widespread 'flying saucer' sightings and the nascent Roswell incident. Subsequent articles span from 1997, covering a range of topics including local UFO societies, specific abduction cases, government cover-ups, and the role of the internet in disseminating information.

Key Articles and Reports

The Fresno Bee (July 6, 1947): 'Flying Saucers Reported in Sky'
This foundational article describes numerous sightings of unidentified flying objects across the United States, with a particular focus on Fresno, California. It mentions reports of 'shimmering something-or-other' and 'strange disks' in the night sky. The article also introduces the Roswell, New Mexico, incident where a 'crashed alien spacecraft' was reportedly found, though later explained by the Air Force as a weather balloon. This event is highlighted as a key moment in UFO lore.

Expert Opinions on UFO Sightings
Experts like 'Berliner' and 'Yates' are quoted discussing the nature of UFO reports. They suggest that many sightings can be attributed to military test aircraft or misidentified phenomena. Yates notes that 'suggestibility' can influence perceptions, especially among those already interested in UFOs. It's estimated that 95-97% of reports have conventional explanations, leaving a small percentage unexplained.

The Internet as a UFO Information Hub
Glenn Scheper, a software developer, discusses how the internet has become an 'unfiltered' and 'uncensored' platform for sharing UFO experiences. Websites from organizations like MUFON and the National UFO Reporting Center, as well as individual sites, allow people to share photos, stories, and research, making a vast amount of information accessible.

Joe Thor: The Outspoken Believer
The article profiles Joe Thor, a vocal UFO believer in the Fresno area known for his letters to the editor. Thor recounts an experience near Area 51 where he believes he saw a 'half-human/half-alien' and lights flying in impossible patterns. His interest began online, where he found unfiltered information about UFOs.

Art Bell and 'Coast to Coast AM'
Several articles reference Art Bell, host of the late-night radio show 'Coast to Coast AM,' which features paranormal topics, including UFOs and Bigfoot. Bell's show is described as a 'clearinghouse for opinions on the bizarre and the unexplained,' drawing millions of listeners. He is noted for his willingness to discuss a wide range of theories, sometimes drawing criticism, as seen in the aftermath of the Heaven's Gate cult incident where he was accused of spreading myths about a spaceship accompanying comet Hale-Bopp.

Kentucky Abduction Case: A 'Classic'
An article from the Herald-Leader (July 19, 1997) details the 'Kentucky Abduction Incident' from January 9, 1976. Three women reported seeing a giant UFO, experiencing 90 minutes of lost time, and later, under hypnosis, recounting being taken aboard a spacecraft and examined by aliens. Leo Sprinkle, a retired professor and UFO investigator, and J. Allen Hynek, a renowned astronomer, both considered the case highly credible and a 'classic' in UFO literature. The women passed polygraph tests, and the case was documented in 'High Strangeness: UFOs from 1960 through 1979.'

Alien Encounters Topic of Local UFO Society Meeting
A Times-News article (July 24, 1997) covers a meeting of the Blue Ridge U.F.O. Research Society in Hendersonville, where Rita Peregrino shared her experiences of alien abduction from her youth. Harold Eadie, the society's founder, emphasized the group's effort to distinguish sincere beliefs from hoaxes and encouraged an open mind.

Michael Kelly and the Roswell Case
An article from the Sunday World-Herald (July 13, 1997) features Michael Kelly, a physics professor and president of MUFON, who suspects extraterrestrials crashed near Roswell 50 years prior. He dismisses the Air Force's explanation of test dummies as 'preposterous' and believes there is a government cover-up of UFO information.

Chester Grusinski's 'Unexplained' Sighting
The Daily, Macomb, MI (July 6, 1997) recounts Chester Grusinski's experience in 1958 as a Navy seaman when he saw a glowing sphere-shaped object that he believes was an alien spacecraft. He has since dedicated time to uncovering the truth about the incident.

Japan's 'Magic Mountain' and UFO Buffs
An article from Iino, Japan (Birgit Reichert) describes Mount Senganmori as a magnet for UFO sightings since 1972. Researchers believe an unusually powerful magnetic field might be responsible. The town has an UFO Information Center that attracts many visitors.

Man in Police Alert Over UFO (Doncaster, England)
A local man reported seeing a large, silent, oval object hovering over Doncaster, prompting him to alert the police. While the police helicopter was not operating, they confirmed the man's belief that he saw a UFO.

Explaining Those UFOs (Orion Media Books)
An article from Publishing News (April 18, 1997) discusses two books that aim to explain UFO phenomena, focusing on secret military weapons and Area 51. The books suggest the Pentagon may have preferred the public to believe in alien visitors rather than the truth about advanced US weapons programs.

Woman Set to Share Experience of Alien Abduction (Penzance, England)
Elaine Darlington is scheduled to share her experiences of alien abduction and operations by aliens at a meeting organized by the Cornwall UFO Research Group.

Mystery Ball of Light and the Lost Forty Minutes (Forest of Dean, England)
Brian Johns, a retired policeman, reported seeing a blinding white light traveling at incredible speed with no noise in the Forest of Dean. Another man reported a similar experience involving a craft and 40 minutes of lost time, including memories of being in a large white room observed by alien creatures.

UFO Sightings on the Increase (Waltham Forest, England)
An article from Walthamstow Guardian (April 17, 1997) discusses the increasing number of UFO sightings in Waltham Forest, with a new group, ELUFON, formed to investigate. Sightings include cigar-shaped objects and multi-colored, 'snake-like' lights over reservoirs and new constructions.

Airport Opens its X-Files as Plane Vanishes (Yorkshire, England)
Leeds-Bradford Airport is investigating strange aerial activity, including a mysterious plane on the tarmac, low flying over the Dales, and a vanishing aircraft that led to police inquiries at a local school. UFO Magazine is investigating the plot.

Irish Pilots in UFO Mystery
Two Aer Lingus pilots reported seeing a red, white, and blue UFO at 9,000ft above Hertfordshire, missing their jet by only 200 yards. Air traffic controllers and investigators confirmed no other craft were on radar, and the object was identified as 'unknown, not an aeroplane.'

Group Starts for 'Unexplained' (Klamath Falls, OR)
Rye Emerson founded the 'International Research Center of the Unexplained' to collect data on sightings of Bigfoot, UFOs, and other phenomena. He notes an increase in reports and seeks a high-speed computer for a database.

Skunk Ape Reported in Everglades
Tourists and locals in the Big Cypress National Preserve reported sightings of a large, furry, black creature known as the 'skunk ape' or Bigfoot. The community has a history of such reports and even staged a skunk ape festival.

Earth's Water May Derive from Comets
An article from The Boston Globe (May 29, 1997) discusses new satellite evidence supporting the theory that Earth's water originated from comets, which fall into the atmosphere at an extraordinary rate. This finding challenges previous scientific understanding.

Bigfoot Group Meets Tonight, Seeking Sasquatch
An article from The Columbus Dispatch (March 1, 1997) announces a conference for the Tri-State Bigfoot Study group, which convenes annually to discuss Bigfoot sightings and evidence. The group plans a hike in the woods in hopes of finding definitive proof.

Poll Shows Most Believe in Government Conspiracies
A Press-Enterprise article (July 5, 1997) reports on a poll indicating widespread American belief in government conspiracies, including responsibility for the Kennedy assassination, the TWA Flight 800 crash, and the Waco incident. The poll suggests cynicism and disillusionment are prevalent.

Desperately Seeking Sasquatch
A Courier article (June 4, 1997) discusses an upcoming International Sasquatch Symposium that will explore both conventional and paranormal aspects of the creature, including its connection to UFOs and telepathic abilities. Speakers will share evidence like footprints and personal experiences.

Man Claims He Saw Bigfoot
A Daily News article (June 10, 1997) reports on Mike McDonald's claim of seeing a Bigfoot while hunting in British Columbia, an experience that has made him a believer. He shared his story at the International Sasquatch Symposium.

Search for Wild Cats
A Shropshire Journal article (April 11, 1997) notes that alongside UFO sightings, there are also reports of big cats in the Shropshire and border areas. The author, Guy N. Smith, collects reports of both phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these articles are the persistent public interest in UFOs, alien encounters, and other unexplained phenomena, alongside a skepticism towards official explanations and a belief in potential government cover-ups. The articles highlight the growing accessibility of information through the internet and the enduring human fascination with mysteries beyond conventional understanding. There is a clear editorial stance that these topics warrant serious investigation and discussion, even if official channels are perceived as dismissive or secretive. The collection showcases a wide spectrum of beliefs, from those seeking scientific explanations to those embracing paranormal theories, all contributing to a complex tapestry of modern ufology and fortean studies.