UFO Newsclipping Service - 1999 12 - no 365

Magazine Overview

This issue of the "UFO Newsclipping Service," dated December 1999 (Number 365), is published by Lucius Farish and covers a range of UFO-related topics, including sightings, abductions, and research. The cover headline, "We are alone ... or are we?", sets a tone of inquiry into extraterrestrial possibilities.

We are alone ... or are we?

This article, by Bridget Brave, Assistant News Editor, introduces the concept of alien abductions. It features Yvonne Smith, a certified hypnotherapist and abduction researcher, who presented her insights at the Morris University Center. Smith defines alien abduction as the forced removal of a person for procedures, often with little or no recollection of the experience. Her research began in 1988, leading to the formation of the Close Encounter Research Organization (CERO) in 1991 to support abductees. Smith aims to educate the public and help abductees heal. The article also includes "UFO fun facts," such as the frequency of sightings, the belief in government cover-ups, and the historical presence of UFO reports from biblical times to modern astronauts.

More reports of UFO sightings, more watching skies

By Michael Gormley, this article highlights New York as a growing area for UFO interest. It details several specific sightings in April and October 1973 and 1978. The article notes the increase in sightings in the 1990s compared to previous decades, with many reports coming from professionals like police officers and engineers. James Bouck, a regional director for MUFON, believes more people are open to the possibility of extraterrestrial visitation. The article references a 1996 Gallup poll indicating that 71% of Americans believe the government is hiding information about UFOs. It also contrasts the current openness with the skepticism following the 1947 Roswell incident. Skeptics like Mike Scritchfield are mentioned, who aim to find earthly explanations for sightings. The article notes emerging patterns in unexplained cases, including increasing reports, sightings from all over the state, and a concentration in the Albany metropolitan area and suburban New York City. Bouck and Scritchfield are described as grounded investigators, not "techno-geek conspiracy theorists."

Convention focuses on UFO reports

By Kelly Rouba, this article covers the Conspiracy 2000 Millennium UFO congress. Pat Marcattilio, the host, asserts that governments are covering up evidence of extraterrestrial visitation and that NASA possesses photographs of UFOs. He announces a future protest demanding access to government UFO files. Marcattilio believes aliens originate from planets orbiting stars like Orion and Pleiades. Prominent researchers, including Wendelle Stevens, spoke at the event. Stevens recounted cases, such as that of Connor O'Ryan, who claimed to have seen aliens in preservation tubes at a military base and was subsequently threatened. Another case involved a woman who met aliens who warned her about landing their craft in Tucson. Stevens also discussed the diversity of alien species and their varied objectives, suggesting Earth attracts them. He believes human existence is transcendent and that spirits seek knowledge. The article also mentions historical UFO depictions, including a 14th-century painting by Carlo Crivelli.

A strange experience

This personal account by Don Peebles recounts an unexplained event from the fall of 1973. While with his brother Terry and friends George Goodin and Dale Willard, they observed a bright light following their truck. The light, described as a cone appearing from the sky like a searchlight with no noise, disappeared when they reached the highway. Later, George and Dale, who had stayed back to observe, confirmed seeing the light. Peebles considers possible explanations like a hovering aircraft, foxfire, or a secret government project, but leans towards an extraterrestrial source.

UFO museum names advisers

This brief report announces the appointment of three advisers to the International UFO Museum and Research Center's board: Stanton Friedman (nuclear physicist), Linda Moulton-Howe (filmmaker and investigator of anomalous phenomena), and Donald Schmitt (expert on the Roswell UFO events). Friedman is noted for bringing scientific rigor, Moulton-Howe for her work on animal mutilations, and Schmitt for his extensive investigation of UFO cases.

Observations

This section includes a quote from Joel Achenbach, author of "Captured By Aliens," discussing the biblical book of Ezekiel and historical UFO sightings by public figures like Jimmy Carter. It also notes the public's belief in alien visitation and the possibility of alien invasion.

UFO Skywatch: Another September 7, '99 sighting

By Bland Pugh, State Director Florida MUFON, this report details a sighting on September 7, 1999, near Englewood Beach, Florida. The witness, a motel owner-manager, observed six large, triangular-shaped objects with silver surfaces flying silently in close formation at low altitude. The lead vehicle was illuminated, and the formation was visible for about 30-45 seconds. The witness described feeling strange and hairs standing up on his neck. The objects flew southward and disappeared. The witness reported the event to the media, who he felt treated it lightly.

Book shelf: Mulder Would Be Proud

This book review highlights "The UFO Investigator's Handbook" by Craig Glenaday. The book is described as a guide for identifying UFOs, craft types, and evaluating incidents, featuring illustrations and historical abduction stories. It includes a caption about a bizarre creature supposedly fished from a UFO crash.

UFO eludes Navajo cops

By Jim Maniaci, this article reports on two Navajo police officers who chased an unidentified flying object over northern McKinley County, New Mexico. The object was described as a circular disc projecting a bright cone of light. Each time officers approached, the object would move away. The report notes the lack of photographic evidence and mentions similar sightings reported by residents in the area. The UFO eventually disappeared after two hours.

UFO Skywatch: More Tampa Sightings

By Bland Pugh, this report details multiple sightings related to the September 7th events. The author expresses skepticism about some reports but believes more witnesses may not have come forward. The article mentions a woman who allegedly buried "Alien" coins as a child in Florida. The report focuses on a sighting by "Pastor X," who reported his experience to the UFO Center and was interviewed on "Coast to Coast" radio. The sighting involved a strangely configured craft with blue ionization near Gulf Breeze, Florida, traveling erratically and silently.

Was UFO an AF missile?

By Malcolm Brenner, this article explores the possibility that a brilliant light seen in Gallup, New Mexico, on October 2nd was an unarmed Minuteman-2 intercontinental ballistic missile launched by the U.S. Air Force. The test involved the interception of the missile's warhead. The article notes that similar sightings have coincided with missile launches in the past. Gabe Valdez, who investigated cattle mutilations, is seeking witnesses to the Oct. 2 lights to see if they correlate with earlier sightings.

Experts on UFOs in area today

This article reports that scientists from the National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS) were scheduled to visit Gallup to meet with people who saw the lights on October 2nd. The institute routinely investigates UFO sightings and other phenomena. They were also to appear on KGAK Radio. Gabe Valdez, who investigated cattle mutilations, hopes to connect the Oct. 2 sightings with earlier reports of blue-white lights seen during mutilation incidents.

UFO Skywatch: More sighting reports from Florida

By Bland Pugh, this report details a sighting in Stuart, Florida, on November 14, 1999. Witnesses described a bright white oval object that transformed into a large saucer-like craft with translucent skin. The object exhibited strange characteristics, including gyrating and moving erratically before jumping back into the sky and disappearing. The witnesses reported a low-pitched hum and an odd burning scent upon returning to the area.

UFO team gets an earful on radio show

By Malcolm Brenner, this article describes a radio call-in program on KGAK Radio in Gallup, New Mexico, where UFO investigators from NIDS, including Dr. Colm A. Kelleher, interviewed witnesses about the October 2nd sighting. The response exceeded expectations, with over 50 interviews conducted. Kelleher noted the similarity in witness descriptions and the high response rate compared to other radio shows. The investigation also included interviewing Navajo police officers. NIDS, founded by Robert Bigelow, focuses on emerging observations and theories, including "aerial phenomenology."

UFO Skywatch: Florida triangle with blue ionization near Gulf Breeze

This report details a sighting on October 9th near Pensacola Pass, Florida. Witnesses observed a strangely configured craft with high-intensity blue arcing lights that fluctuated around it. The craft moved erratically and silently. The FM radio receiver experienced extreme static during the event. One witness reported nausea. The article mentions that an aircraft from Sherman Field seemed unaware of the UFO.

UFO Skywatch: More Tampa Sightings

This report, by Bland Pugh, discusses sightings related to the September 7th events. The author expresses skepticism about some reports but believes more witnesses may exist. The article mentions a woman who allegedly buried "Alien" coins as a child in Florida. The focus is on a sighting by "Pastor X," who reported his experience to the UFO Center and was interviewed on "Coast to Coast" radio. The sighting involved a strangely configured craft with blue ionization near Gulf Breeze, Florida, traveling erratically and silently.

Invasion of alien matters

This is a review of Joel Achenbach's book, "Captured by Aliens: The Search for Life and Truth in a Very Large Universe." The reviewer, David Williams, notes that the book explores the UFO movement and related disciplines, examining whether governments are covering up alien landings or if the universe is teeming with life. Achenbach interviewed abductees and believers, and even underwent hypnosis, though it was unsuccessful. The book also delves into the scientific aspects of extraterrestrials, mentioning Carl Sagan and Mars meteorite ALH84001. Achenbach is described as an open-minded skeptic with a sense of humor, concluding that the "alien question is bottomless."

Author relates local alien tales

By Robert Monroe, this article discusses Preston Dennett's book, "UFOs over Topanga Canyon: Eyewitness Accounts of the California Sightings." Dennett contends that UFO activity is increasing and that aliens want to be seen. The book features stories of strange lights and abductions in Topanga Canyon, including alleged medical procedures and advice from aliens. Dennett recounts a case where aliens advised a woman against supporting Ross Perot. He also mentions a woman who claimed aliens abducted her and cut her arm. Dennett, a former skeptic, became convinced after family members shared their own UFO stories. He suggests the canyon's landscape might be ideal for alien observation. The article also includes reactions from the audience, with some seeking more substance and others expressing belief.

Something in the Air

This article by Al Martinez discusses the unique community of Topanga Canyon, where unusual beliefs and experiences are common. It references Preston Dennett's book "UFOs Over Topanga Canyon," which documents sightings and alleged communications with "saucer people." Martinez notes Dennett's contention that many sightings have occurred in his neighborhood and that aliens may be attracted to the area. The article touches on the idea that aliens might offer advice, citing an instance where aliens reportedly advised a woman against supporting Ross Perot.

Artesia couple observes UFOS moving through the night sky

By Jane Wiggins, this report details a sighting by Joyce Booker-Cole and her husband David in Artesia, New Mexico. They observed bright, glowing circular and triangle-shaped objects traveling from north to northeast toward the southwest. The objects were described as not high enough to be airplanes and made no noise. They moved slowly, dropped to the ground, or disappeared. The sighting gave Joyce Cole chills. Law enforcement agencies reported no sightings, but the Industrial Air Center office mentioned a weather balloon mission.

Pendleton claims flying saucer connection

This article discusses Pendleton, Oregon, as a site historically linked to the "flying saucer" era, referencing Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting near Mt. Rainier. Arnold described objects moving "like a saucer skipping across water," a phrase that coined the term "flying saucers." The article also mentions Bill Schuening, who claimed to have seen a similar object in Pendleton on the same day. The term "flying saucers" originated from Arnold's description of the objects' movement.

The Thomas files: Investigator probes UFO sightings

By Hal McCune, this article profiles Richard Thomas of Pendleton, Oregon, a MUFON investigator. Thomas recounts his own experience in 1971 of touching a "dome-shaped thing" that he believes was an unidentified flying object, which led to his conviction that "we are not alone." He spent the 1970s investigating UFO sightings for the International UFO Registry. After health issues, he returned to investigating UFOs, becoming a state section director for MUFON. Thomas is actively seeking people who have seen UFOs, particularly recent sightings. He believes that if aliens possess advanced craft, they could be "savior[s] to the world rather than a threat," and anticipates future contact similar to "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

Planned watchtowers may lure tourists and UFOs

This Associated Press report describes Judy Messoline's plan to build UFO watchtowers in the San Luis Valley, Colorado, to capitalize on the area's UFO lore. Messoline, who won approval for her project, hopes to attract tourists with the watchtowers, a UFO-themed gift shop, and a landing pad. The valley is known for UFO sightings, strange lights, and underground rumblings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, alien abductions, and the belief that governments may be withholding information about these phenomena. There is a consistent focus on witness accounts, investigator reports, and the efforts of organizations like MUFON and NIDS to document and study these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives from believers, researchers, and skeptics, while highlighting the persistent nature of UFO phenomena and the public's fascination with them. The publication aims to inform readers about ongoing investigations and reported encounters.

This issue of Foreign News, a compilation of British and Canadian clippings, delves into various unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings and related mysteries. The main headline, "Strange sightings," is supported by articles detailing investigator reports, mother's accounts of sky lights, and broader discussions on UFO phenomena across different regions.

Investigator Releases Report on UFO Claims

This section highlights the work of Martin Jasek, a UFO investigator from Whitehorse, Yukon. Jasek has compiled testimony from 22 witnesses who, on December 11, 1996, reported seeing an object described as "larger than a football stadium" along a 216-kilometer stretch of the Klondike Highway. The witnesses were located in Fox Lake, Carmacks, and Pelly Crossing. Jasek emphasizes that these craft exhibit behavior not explainable by human technology. He hopes his report, released on the internet and soon to be in hard copy for the RCMP, will encourage mainstream scientific acceptance and provide a sense of legitimacy for those who come forward with similar sightings. The report details consistent witness accounts, with the object described as a "white light in the centre of an elliptically-shaped object." Jasek used triangulation to estimate the UFO's size, ranging from 88 meters to two kilometers in length. He concludes that extraterrestrial involvement is the most logical explanation for these events.

UFO Spottings on the Rise

This article expands on the UFO phenomenon in Canada, noting that while Martin Jasek documented a specific 1996 sighting in the Yukon, residents in the NWT's Deh Cho region also reported unexplained activity around the same time. Ruby Jumbo of the Sambaa Ke Dene Band stated that "almost everybody in Trout Lake saw something in the sky in 1996." The Deh Cho Drum newspaper ran a story about an elder seeing "mysterious lights." The article also references a Canadian Geographic Geo Map section that identified Yellowknife as a UFO hot spot, noting an increase in reports from the North over the past few years.

Mother Reports Strange Sky Lights

This clipping from the Shropshire Star reports on strange red and white lights seen hovering over Highley, England, in the early hours of April 12, 1999. Katrina Lewis described the silent, hovering object that eventually zoomed out of sight. She and her neighbor, Tracey Walford, were convinced it was not a plane or helicopter, estimating its size to be about half a mile away. Lewis mentioned a "strange feeling in the air, almost like the kind of electrical buzz you get from a power station." The sighting was reported to the police, but no other accounts were received.

Farmer's Secret

This letter to the editor in the Daily Mail references a previous article on crop circles. The writer, MTS Louise Wilson, recounts an experience during the war while working as a pest control operator. She was sent to a farmer in Hertfordshire who had received complaints about his cornfield. The farmer claimed damage was caused by rabbits and pheasants, but Wilson found a large circular area where the corn was flattened in a spiral. The farmer then told her about a secret underground development on the Brocket Estate, involving high-ranking Germans flying into Britain before the war. Wilson speculates if this was related to corn circle phenomena.

The MP Who Is Opening Up Britain's Own X-Files

This article from the Daily Post discusses the impending release of classified Ministry of Defence (MoD) documents on UFO investigations in Britain. Defence Minister Peter Kilfoyle is set to make these papers public within three months. The MoD has dealt with approximately 9,000 UFO sightings since 1959, with around 300 incidents reported annually. While most are explained as misidentifications, a "hard core" of sightings by trained observers remain unexplained. The article highlights the Rendlesham Forest incident in 1980, where a triangular spaceship was seen, and mentions US airmen reporting sightings of a similar craft. It also touches on RAF jets tracking UFOs and near-misses between UFOs and civil aircraft.

The Truth of NW Sightings May Be There

This piece from the Daily Post speculates on what UFO spotters in the North West of England might discover in the newly released secret files. It mentions a case in Burnley involving a "zombie-like man in black" and another incident where a woman was followed by a disc towards Runcorn. It also references farmer Hugh Lloyd's account of a crashed spacecraft with alien bodies in the Berwyn mountains in the 1970s. Anthony Eccles, a UFO researcher, expresses skepticism about the government's motives, while acknowledging that most sightings are explained by conventional means.

Strange Sights: Three Local People Report UFO Over Trail Bay Islands

This report from The Reporter in Sechelt, B.C., details a sighting by Ruth Myer and her husband on October 22. They observed a "huge" saucer-shaped craft, described as bright red on one side, amber in the center, and green on the left, hovering over East Trail Bay Island. The object remained for about 10 minutes before heading towards Vancouver. Graham Conway of UFO BC notes an increase in UFO reports in the Lower Mainland.

Carnoustie Disc Remains A Mystery

An unidentified flying object was sighted in the Angus skies near Carnoustie, Scotland, on March 12, 1999. A resident described a "strange red disc" moving in the sky, which later turned orange and became much bigger. Neither the Coastguard nor RAF Leuchars could provide an explanation.

Truth Isn't Out There After UFO Sighting

This article from Medway News reports on a UFO sighting near the M2 close to Chatham, England, on March 26, 1999. Motorists reported seeing flashing lights. Mrs. Pauline Davis described the object as swirling like the bottom of a jellyfish, with only lights visible. Maidstone Police received similar reports but had no explanation.

Riddle of UFO at Heathrow

A passenger jet crew reported an object "like a bright light" passing within 20ft of them at 3,500ft shortly after taking off from Heathrow. Radar records showed no other planes in the area, and air accident investigators were baffled. The incident is thought to have been passed to the MoD.

Will a Shadowy Cult Unlock the Last Secrets of the Pyramids?

This piece from the Mail on Sunday discusses the work of Egyptologist Robert Bauval and his theories about the Great Pyramid and Sphinx. It centers on the Association of Research and Enlightenment (ARE), founded by Edgar Cayce, which is searching for a "Hall of Records" near the Sphinx. The article raises suspicions about the ARE's motives and beliefs, suggesting they may be trying to promote something other than historical discovery. It mentions Cayce's predictions about the Millennium and the Hall of Records, and Dr. Zahi Hawass's announcements regarding discoveries at Giza.

Canadian Zoologist Seeks Elusive Cadborosaurus

This article from the Sudbury Star features Ed Bousfield, an invertebrate zoologist who has researched the "Cadborosaurus," a sea serpent reported in the Pacific Ocean. Bousfield describes the creature as large, elongated, with a horse-like head and sharp teeth. He has documented hundreds of sightings and believes the creature, which he calls a "mega aquatic serpent," lives deep in the ocean. Despite skepticism from colleagues, Bousfield continues his research.

Circles of Fear

This extract from a book by Lucy Pringle, published in the Daily Mail, discusses her ten years of studying crop circles. Pringle shares eyewitness accounts of people experiencing negative physical effects, such as nausea and disorientation, upon entering formations. She also details cases of healing and increased well-being associated with crop circles. The article explores the potential connection between crop circles and electromagnetic fields, and mentions strange animal behavior observed near formations. It also touches upon the global prevalence of crop circles and their possible ancient origins.

Wigan's Ashurst Beacon May Be a Pointer to a Flying Saucer Invasion

This report from the Evening Post details numerous sightings of a mysterious blue light over Ashurst Beacon in West Lancashire. Tim Matthews of the Lancashire UFO Society notes an unprecedented number of sightings, many of which cannot be explained conventionally. Some sightings involve a light that appears to fly under "intelligent control."

Rockefeller Seeks Crop Circle Answers

This Independent article reports that Laurence Rockefeller is funding Colin Andrews' research into crop circles. Andrews, a former local government officer, has been studying crop circles for ten years and has become a successful author and researcher. Rockefeller, known for his interest in unexplained phenomena, is supporting Andrews' efforts to investigate the origins of these formations, with a focus on distinguishing between hoaxes and genuinely inexplicable patterns.

Elusive Sasquatch Still Scares Up Believers

This Union-Tribune article explores the phenomenon of Bigfoot sightings, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. It features interviews with individuals like Al Hodgson, curator of a Bigfoot museum, and John Freitas, a former police officer who actively searches for the creature. The article discusses the physical characteristics attributed to Bigfoot, the challenges of finding concrete evidence, and the high-tech methods now employed in the search, including the use of the internet and audio recordings.

Ghost Hunter Convention Scares Up 150 Kindred Spirits

This Journal article describes a convention in Alton, Illinois, that brought together 150 ghost hunters. The event, organized by the American Ghost Society, highlights the role of the internet in connecting enthusiasts. Speakers discussed various aspects of ghost hunting, including historical figures like Harry Houdini and phenomena such as Bigfoot and the Piasa Bird.

The Strange Stories Never Stop for Author

This Empire article profiles Ed Ferrell, a Juneau author who researches strange stories from old newspapers. Ferrell's new book compiles accounts of Sasquatch creatures, lost gold mines, weird artifacts, and other unusual occurrences. He emphasizes his open-minded approach, focusing on stories with specific details and credible witnesses, while ruling out obvious hoaxes. His research spans from 1850 to 1967, covering both the northlands and other parts of the United States.

'Weird Things' Going on Raise Goose Bumps at County Museum

This Associated Press report details unexplainable events at the St. Francis County Museum in Forrest City, Arkansas. Objects move on their own, unexplainable noises are heard, and doors open spontaneously. Museum director Brian Hicks describes the historic building, a former doctor's office and surgery room, as having "weird things" happening, including objects mysteriously moving and alarms activating without apparent cause.

Reverse-Time Region Possible, Physicist Says

This New York Times article discusses the theoretical possibility of "reverse-time regions" in the universe, where time might flow backward. Physicist Lawrence Schulman suggests that such regions could explain dark matter and might be relics from a future contracting phase of the universe. The concept implies that order could arise from chaos, and these regions could possess attributes of dark matter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings, cryptids like Bigfoot and Cadborosaurus, and mysterious occurrences such as crop circles and alleged hauntings. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting witness testimonies and investigative findings without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the role of skepticism and the need for evidence. The compilation of clippings suggests an interest in presenting a wide range of unusual events from different geographical locations, often highlighting the efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to researching these mysteries. There's a consistent thread of individuals seeking answers to events that defy conventional explanation, often facing ridicule or skepticism from mainstream society.