UFO Newsclipping Service - 2000 06 - no 371

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE
Issue: 371
Volume: June 2000
Publisher: UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE
Country: USA
Language: English

Main Cover Story: Seeing Things?

The cover story, "Seeing things? Maybe not. Expert says this area's ripe for UFOs" by Jaime Gatton, features George Fawcett, an internationally-known UFO investigator and researcher. Fawcett, a resident of Lincolnton, told members of the Lake Norman Rotary Club that Mooresville and Lake Norman are good locations for UFO sightings, with Lake Norman being even better. He explained that UFOs are often seen near electrical substations, power lines, and large bodies of water, seemingly to extract power or water. He cited reports of UFOs clamping onto power lines and using tubes to suck water back into their vessels. Fawcett has investigated over 1,700 UFO sighting reports, with 22 percent remaining unexplained. He has authored over 100 articles and several books on the subject and has been involved in founding several UFO study groups. He also donated artifacts to the International Unidentified Flying Object Museum Research Center in Roswell, New Mexico, and has served as a field investigator for various UFO organizations. Fawcett noted that consistent aspects of UFO sightings globally include severe animal reactions, power failures, and physical and psychological traces.

North Carolina ranks fifth in the U.S. for UFO reports. Fawcett estimates that only 10 percent of people who see UFOs actually report them. He also mentioned that former presidents Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter reported seeing UFOs.

UFO Sighting in Lake Charles, Louisiana

An article from the American Press in Lake Charles, LA, dated April 30, 2000, highlights a single reported UFO sighting in Louisiana, located in Lake Charles. The sighting, from J.R. Tibodeaux, occurred on May 6, 1999, while star-gazing. Tibodeaux described an odd-looking light or star-like object moving north. Initially thought to be a star, it was observed to be at about 10,000 feet, slowly descending. It stopped at around 500 feet, remaining idle before emitting a whine and rapidly ascending out of view. The craft was described as triangular, with a blue glow and three bright purple lights. Tibodeaux estimated its size at about 300 feet across and its speed at over 500 mph. He stated this was the second similar craft he had witnessed that year.

Arkansas UFO Conference

Michael E. Ream reports on the twelfth annual Ozark UFO Conference held April 7-9 at the Inn of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The conference featured lectures, literature tables, and networking among attendees interested in UFOs, alien abductions, and related phenomena. Speaker Antonio Huneeus discussed UFOlogy in Chile, where it is considered mainstream. Vendors offered various UFO-related merchandise and discussed topics ranging from Martians to contrails. John Foster spoke on "Eminent Discovery: UFOs at the Core of Our Culture," describing his experiences with "grays." The conference also included discussions on crop circles and remote viewing. The social hub of the conference was the Lone Star Bar, where attendees shared stories and camaraderie.

UFO Researcher to Visit Salisbury

An article from the Post in Salisbury, NC, dated May 16, 2000, announces that UFO researcher Dennis G. Balthaser will visit Salisbury to talk about underground bases. Balthaser, a former civil engineer, became involved in UFO research after meeting individuals he believes to be "Men In Black" who allegedly tried to prevent him from obtaining evidence of extraterrestrial life. He previously volunteered at the International UFO Museum in Roswell, NM. His lecture, "Underground Bases: What's Under Our Feet," will cover national defense bases, the technology for developing underground tunnels, and the possibility of aliens existing underground. The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) of N.C. is sponsoring the event.

UFO Photo Still Tantalizes

An article from The Oregonian, dated May 11, 2000, revisits the famous UFO photo taken by Paul and Evelyn Trent 50 years prior near Dayton, Oregon. The photo, which appeared in Life magazine, is still debated. Townsfolk in Dayton seem largely uninterested in the anniversary, while a local hotel is hosting an alien-themed event. UFOlogist Bruce Maccabee, who investigated the photos, found them difficult to debunk due to their clarity. Photo analyst William Hartmann concluded the image was consistent with an artificial, possibly extraterrestrial, object. The article also notes that 48 percent of Americans believe the government is hiding proof of UFOs.

Rockford Lights Sighting

An article from the Gazette in Janesville, WI, dated February 22, 2000, discusses sightings of orange lights over Rockford, Illinois, on February 11. Jeff Coan and his family witnessed the lights, and his son Joel captured a 72-minute videotape of the phenomenon. The lights were described as flying in formation and performing maneuvers. The National UFO Reporting Center received numerous calls about the sightings. Rockford media reported similar events. The Rockford Police Department and Winnebago County Sheriff's Department stated they had no involvement or reports of the sightings. Karla Soeprasetyo, a Rockford resident, reported her own sighting and expressed concern that police claimed no reports were filed. Earl Wilson, operations supervisor of the Rockford Airport control tower, was not aware of radar confirmation but noted that "we see a lot of stuff that isn't airplanes."

Area 51, What Are You?

Kevin Fagan's article from the Chronicle in San Francisco, CA, dated April 18, 2000, discusses new satellite photos of Area 51 released by Aerial Images. The photos reveal a large, desert missile-and-aircraft range with runways, buildings, and bombing craters, rather than evidence of aliens or ornate flying saucers. Carol Syska, director of the UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, New Mexico, stated that the photos were interesting but didn't prove anything. The article notes that private companies are increasingly launching reconnaissance satellites, making it harder for governments to control the distribution of imagery.

'Ghost Planes' Crop Up on Airport's Radar

The Associated Press reports from Chicago on May 21, 2000, that false radar images, dubbed "ghost planes," have been appearing on O'Hare International Airport's screens, forcing pilots to take evasive maneuvers. The Chicago Sun-Times reported at least a dozen such incidents in recent weeks. The FAA spokesman attributed "ghosting" to cranes or construction towers, but union officials believe the FAA is downplaying the issue. Controllers have expressed concerns about the safety of air traffic procedures.

Snooping's Not Just For Spies Any More

William J. Broad's article from The New York Times, dated April 23, 2000, discusses the revolution in private reconnaissance satellite imagery. Companies are now capable of capturing high-resolution images of sensitive areas, including military installations like Area 51. This increased accessibility of imagery challenges governmental efforts at censorship and could potentially reveal state secrets to adversaries or the public.

Request About UFOs Dismissed

Senta Scarborough's report from The Arizona Republic, dated March 31, 2000, covers the dismissal of a lawsuit seeking government UFO documents. U.S. District Chief Judge Stephen McNamee ruled that the federal government had made a reasonable effort to provide information on mysterious aerial craft. Peter Gersten, executive director of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, filed the lawsuit but expressed disappointment with the ruling, though not surprise, as he considers such FOIA cases typical.

Looking Back: Flying Saucers and A Handsome Irishman

An article by Maryland McCormick, likely from the Sunday Tribune in Chicago, dated October 10, 1954, discusses Desmond Leslie's book "Flying Saucers Have Landed," co-authored with George Adamski. Leslie claims flying saucers, or "vimamas," are ancient and have been recorded in early Sanskrit texts. He suggests visitors from higher planes come to Earth during times of stress. The article touches on the potential for destruction from atomic bombs and the possibility of civilizations disappearing. Leslie's book reportedly details jet propulsion, super-metals, and advanced aircraft capabilities. The article also recounts a personal anecdote about Mrs. Kemper Wetmore's sighting of a flying saucer.

Astronomer Sees Big Half Circles

A brief Associated Press report from Hobbs, NM, dated October 16, 1954, mentions amateur astronomer R. S. Fleming observing five large half-circles of pale lights crossing the New Mexico sky. Fleming estimated their size to be about twice that of a B36 flying low and noted they were not weather balloons, comets, or jet planes.

Hints of Space Travel, But Not by Earthlings

Bill Moore's article from the Star in Kansas City, MO, dated March 3, 1958, covers a presentation by John Otto, a Chicago patent development engineer and investigator for Flying Saucers International. Otto presented numerous slides of UFOs, described as everything from bright globs of light to distinct craft with domes. He also discussed "mother ships" from which smaller craft were launched. Otto raised the question of whether atomic blasts might be disturbing other planets and suggested this could be why more flying saucers are being seen. He also mentioned strange lights and activity on the moon.

In France, Rumors Are Flying... Or Maybe They Are Saucers

Crosby S. Noyes' report from The Evening Star in Washington, DC, dated October 18, 1954, details several UFO sightings and related incidents in Europe. A reward was offered in Brest, France, for a live inhabitant of Mars. The article recounts Cedric Allingham's encounter with a Martian near Scotland, who emerged from a flying saucer. It also describes reports from France and Portugal involving encounters with small, man-like creatures emerging from various craft, including a "flying mushroom" and a cigar-shaped contraption. The article notes the variety in descriptions of UFO shapes and pilots, often depicted as mannerly but timid.

Mystery 'Thing' Lands Amid 6 Kids

A Chicago news report from July 26, 1955, details an incident where a "blue thing with a yellow tail" reportedly landed near six children playing in a yard. James Gutillo described the object as mushroom-shaped, weighing about 30 pounds, and looking like molten rock and metal.

Documentary Saucer Film Premieres

A report from the American in Chicago, IL, dated January 27, 1955, announces the premiere of the first documentary motion picture on flying saucers, titled "We Have Seen the Saucers." The film, produced in California, included eyewitness testimony from pilots, Army officials, and citizens, with the sponsorship of the Detroit Flying Saucer Club.

UFO Makes Woman Leery of Night Travel

Stephanie Waddell's article from the Star in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, dated April 20, 2000, features Leah Isaac's account of a UFO encounter on March 30. Isaac described a silver, transparent, disc-shaped aircraft hovering near Little Fox Lake. The craft made no noise, and her analog watch stopped, while her vehicle's lights dimmed. Isaac, who was initially skeptical, is now curious about extraterrestrial life and believes more sightings are occurring.

Does Porton Down Hold the Key to the Mystery of Creatures from Outer Space?

David Wilkes' article from the Western Daily Press, Bristol, England, dated October 21, 1999, discusses research by UFO investigator Nick Redfern. Redfern claims soldiers were ordered to transport alien bodies to Porton Down, a top-secret defense laboratory, following a flying saucer crash. A former soldier, using the pseudonym James Prescott, described seeing two alien bodies in decontamination suits. The article also mentions that Porton Down was reportedly receiving newspaper clippings about UFOs. The Ministry of Defence refused to comment.

Closer to the Truth

Catherine Edwards' article from the Evening Telegraph in Derby, England, dated January 3, 2000, features Omar Fowler, a UFO investigator who moved to Derby due to the city's proximity to his hobby. Fowler formed the Phenomenon Research Association and notes the high number of technically qualified engineers in the area who contribute to a scientific approach to UFO study. The article highlights the investigation of "Flying Triangle" craft, which appear frequently in Derby. Fowler's UFO investigations have expanded internationally.

We Believe in an Alien Nation

A report from the Daily Record in Glasgow, Scotland, dated November 17, 1999, cites a survey by Heineken revealing that over one in four Britons believe aliens are visiting Earth. The poll indicated that 70 percent believe alien lifeforms exist, and 27 percent think they already visit Earth. Men were found to be less skeptical than women. The survey was conducted as part of a Millennium project to beam messages into space.

Ancient UFO

A brief item from the Chronicle in Bath, England, dated September 8, 1999, is a reader's query from David Osborne in Taiping, Malaysia, asking for information about a sighting of a large orange disc over Lansdown around 1960-1962.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO Newsclipping Service include the prevalence of UFO sightings in various locations, the ongoing investigation and research into these phenomena, and the persistent questions surrounding government secrecy and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness accounts, expert opinions, and research findings without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and draw their own inferences. The publication highlights the growing public interest in UFOs and the increasing accessibility of information through media and the internet.

This issue of the Press & Journal, dated January 3, 2000, focuses on pilot reports of UFO sightings and the ongoing controversy surrounding the subject. The main headline, "Pilots report UFO sighting," highlights a specific incident involving a Debonair BAe146 crew.

Pilots Report UFO Sighting

The lead article by Nic Outterside details an encounter where the crew of a British airliner reported being buzzed by a "great red light" described as a long, cylindrical object while crossing the North Sea. The underside of their jet was bathed in incandescent light for ten seconds. The Civil Aviation Authority confirmed receiving a report but stated no further action was being taken as there was no danger to the aircraft or passengers. The Ministry of Defence also denied investigating the incident.

The report notes that last year was a "bumper year for UFO watchers" with similar sightings. It mentions a 1990 incident where RAF Tornado jets were overtaken by a UFO over the North Sea, and a 1999 event where a 900ft UFO was pursued by jets before disappearing at high speed. The article also touches on disturbing reports of near-misses between UFOs and civilian aircraft in 1991 over Kent.

In 1995, pilots of a Boeing 737 encountered a brightly-lit UFO near Manchester Airport, which they believed passed only yards from their aircraft. This incident, investigated by the CAA, remains a mystery.

UFO expert Ron Halliday predicts a rush of extraterrestrial activity around the millennium, noting a rise in sightings over the past 18 months. He believes this trend will continue.

'Flying saucer' controversy looks set to thrive in 21st century

This section, investigated by Nic Outterside, delves into government involvement and public perception of UFOs. It references historical figures like Winston Churchill and Jimmy Carter who reportedly knew about UFOs and government files. A 1952 memo from Churchill demanding to know "the truth about this stuff about flying saucers" is mentioned, along with an Air Ministry reply dismissing sightings as hoaxes or explained by science.

It's revealed that between 1947 and 1957, US and British intelligence agencies analyzed 10,000 UFO sightings. The Ballistic Missile Early Warning System at Fylingdales has also traced numerous UFOs over the past 40 years.

• Several specific incidents are detailed:
• A "white object" seen by airmen at RAF Topcliffe, North Yorkshire, in 1952, which accelerated at "incredible speed."
• A witness in Glasgow in 1983 saw a UFO described as a "Pullman buffet car" sail less than 20ft over his head.
• In 1990, RAF Tornado jets flying over the North Sea were overtaken by a UFO.
• In October 1992, a "bright light" descended and a "large sphere with a rim" was seen hovering over the road in Edinburgh.
• In October 1994, a "a huge perfect white circular object" was observed at 30,000ft near Pitlochry, Perthshire.

The article highlights the 1980 close encounter at RAF Woodbridge, Suffolk, where USAF security-police reported seeing a "strange glowing object in the forest" that was metallic and triangular. Three depressions were found the next day. The MoD, however, denied receiving reports of this incident.

Nick Pope, who previously headed the MoD's UFO desk, stated that while most sightings can be explained, about 10% defy explanation, with some cases being "far more disturbing" due to close-range sightings by experienced personnel.

The British UFO research group Bufora remains sceptical of a government cover-up, stating there's no clear-cut evidence. However, UFO expert Ron Halliday believes rural Scotland might be used for storing sophisticated alien hardware.

An MoD spokesman admitted logging UFO reports since 1959 but denied involvement in storing or testing UFOs at secret bases.

UFO hopefuls scanning the skies

This section, by an unnamed reporter, focuses on UFO sightings in Hampshire. It mentions Ernie Sears and Andy Phillips, who reported similar sightings 24 hours apart. Sears described a "huge reddish-orange ball low in the sky," while Phillips saw a "glowing bar in the sky" about 100ft long and throbbing. The Southampton UFO group, led by Steve Gerard, believes these sightings indicate increased visits from extraterrestrial beings.

The truth is over here...

Written by Malcolm Prior, this special report revisits the mystery of UFOs, suggesting Hampshire is a "top destination for uncanny visitors." It details the near-identical sightings by Ernie Sears and Andy Phillips, corroborating the idea of increased activity. Steve Gerard of the Southampton UFO group states that about five percent of sightings cannot be explained and that it's naive to think humans are alone.

Calls to reopen 22-year Apollo Bay plane crash mystery

This article by Katie Hyder discusses the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich off Apollo Bay 22 years prior, after he reported a UFO. UFO investigators want to reopen the search based on newly released evidence. Radio controller Steve Robey, who last spoke to Valentich, welcomes a new search to provide answers. Valentich's mother, Alberta, also hopes for a further search, believing her son is still alive. Victorian UFO Research Society investigator Paul Norman believes the plane crashed into the ocean 5-20 km east-south-east of Cape Marengo. The article includes a transcript of Valentich's final radio transmission, where he states, "It's not an aircraft..."

Large green light spotted

This brief report mentions an Apollo Bay man and his nieces seeing a large green light above a light aircraft on the night Frederick Valentich disappeared. Investigator Paul Norman noted the sighting, which occurred around the same time and location as Valentich's disappearance.

I WAS BUZZED BY A UFO

This article by Philip Burden recounts an experience of pilot David Hastings in the Mojave Desert, USA. Hastings saw a gigantic UFO and managed to snap two color photos as he and another pilot dived to avoid a mid-air collision. The second photo revealed a blurred image of an oval spaceship. The US Navy admitted being baffled by the incident.

Paul Norman

This profile by Helen O'Neill introduces Paul Norman, an Australian UFO investigator with 46 years of experience. Norman discusses his approach to investigating cases, sorting out hoaxes and mistaken identities, and focusing on the unexplained 10 percent. He believes these unexplained cases are evidence of advanced technology but avoids speculation about the visitors' origins. He moved to Australia in 1963 and was directed to Melbourne for its scientific UFO organization.

Norman recounts the strangest case he investigated: the disappearance of Frederick Valentich. He also mentions a recent Australian incident in Victoria involving a long, cigar-shaped object with four sections.

Britain's UFO secrets revealed

By Antony Barnett, this article discusses how pressure from scientist Colin Ridyard opened up hidden government files on UFO sightings. An air traffic controller in Scotland noticed a large object on radar travelling at 3,000mph. The Ministry of Defence's secretive section, Sacretariat (Air Staff) 2a, collates UFO reports. Whitehall traditionally classified information for 30 years, but the parliamentary Ombudsman insisted the MoD release data to Ridyard, who was seeking information on pilot and radar sightings. The MoD initially refused due to cost but eventually released two reports, despite the Civil Aviation Authority suggesting more sightings occurred.

Incidents mentioned include a commercial pilot over the Midlands reporting an unusual object with a flashing strobe light, and a pilot over the North Sea whose aircraft was illuminated by an "incandescent" light. The MoD stated these events had normal explanations, but Ridyard argues for freedom of information, stating that secret incidents cannot be scrutinized. The article also references the infamous December 1980 incident at RAF Woodbridge, Suffolk, involving a triangular object and depressions found in the forest, which the MoD later denied knowledge of.

Discussion is callled “Star Trek,' 'X-Files' and Beyond"

This article by Anthony Dellaflora reports on a presentation by paranormal experts Jeffrey Mishlove and David Perkins. They discussed how sci-fi shows like "Star Trek" and "The X-Files" have changed perceptions of reality and science. Perkins noted that "The X-Files" is "pretty accurate" in its portrayal of concepts like "biological gene manipulation" and "dark sinister forces." Mishlove discussed the mathematics of hyperspace and multiple dimensions, linking them to ancient beliefs about spirit realities. Perkins also planned to discuss "cattle mutilations" as the "ultimate 'X-File,'" connecting them to conspiracy theories and government cover-ups. They also touched on the "negative viewpoint" of the US power structure portrayed in "The X-Files" and contrasted it with the more positive outlook of "Star Trek." Mishlove related the concept of evolutionary breakthroughs often being preceded by disasters, referencing the late Ted Owens and his psycho-kinetic powers.

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD HAUNTS

This section by Iva-Marie Palmer explores local ghost lore, focusing on "Resurrection Mary" in Chicago. Mary is described as a blonde in a white dress who wanders Archer Road, believed by some to be the spirit of Mary Bregovy, who died in a 1934 car accident. The article details Mary's alleged interactions, including bending bronze gate bars at Resurrection Cemetery and appearing to a cab driver. Richard Crowe, a "ghost hunter," conducts tours of Chicago's spooky sites, including the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and the Biograph Theatre. The article also mentions "ghost lights" at Maple Lake and Bachelor's Grove, and sightings of monks at St. James of the Sag Church. It also touches on the legend of Mary Alice Quinn, whose grave is associated with the scent of roses and moving ground.

Devil's Creek driveby

This article continues the "Our Neighborhood Haunts" section, detailing the story of the Grimes girls, who disappeared in December 1956 and were later found naked with unexplained puncture wounds. The story is linked to Devil's Creek and a possible satanic element, with reports of a black car racing down the road and disappearing. The family who lived on Devil's Hill left their belongings, including a 1956 White Buick convertible, when they moved.

Scent of roses

This part of the "Our Neighborhood Haunts" section discusses Mary Alice Quinn, whose grave is a site of paranormal interest. Visitors report smelling roses from the soil of her grave, and she was reportedly seen walking in the cemetery in the 1930s and 1940s. The story is presented as a "religious type activity" rather than a scary ghost story.

Curious?

This brief section, part of "Our Neighborhood Haunts," mentions Richard Crowe's busy schedule with ghost tours and lectures, especially around Halloween, and his expanded tour offerings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings, with government secrecy and scientific inquiry. There's a clear interest in witness testimonies, historical incidents, and the potential for advanced technology or extraterrestrial involvement. The articles often highlight the skepticism faced by believers while presenting evidence and expert opinions. The overall stance seems to be one of open-minded investigation into these mysteries, acknowledging that while many sightings can be explained, a significant portion remains unexplained, prompting further research and public discussion. The coverage spans from pilot reports and military files to personal accounts and historical lore, suggesting a broad interest in the paranormal and the unknown.