UFO Newsclipping Service - 2000 07 - no 372

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO Newsclipping Service, dated July 2000, number 372, published by Lucius Farish, explores the persistent question of whether UFO sightings indicate the presence of extraterrestrial life. The cover headline, 'Do UFO sightings mean we are not alone?', sets the tone for a collection of articles that delve into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, including personal investigations, legal challenges, scientific research, and anecdotal accounts.

Do UFO sightings mean we are not alone?

This lead article features George Fawcett, who has spent over 50 years investigating UFO sightings and believes the government is covering up information. It references a Gallup poll indicating that 71% of Americans believe the government is hiding something about UFOs, with 45% thinking UFOs have visited Earth. The article also touches on the public's skepticism towards official explanations, citing the Roswell incident. It notes the influence of UFOs in popular culture through works like H.G. Wells' 'The War of the Worlds,' 'Men in Black,' and 'The X-Files.' Gillian Anderson, an actress from 'The X-Files,' is quoted as saying she would be shocked if the government had never been involved in a UFO cover-up. The article presents a specific sighting from Maiden, North Carolina, on November 25, 1997, describing an oval-shaped object that moved erratically and was about the size of a car, suggesting that such sightings might deter aliens from making contact.

UFO NEWS: A local and world report

This section, from the North Seattle Journal, details a lawsuit filed by Gary Val Tenuta and Peter Gersten, director of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), against the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). Gersten presented 33 affidavits regarding sightings of large, black, triangular crafts, which he believes are of unknown origin. Despite the media largely ignoring these sightings, Gersten pursued a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, which was initially met with claims of no information. Gersten, who had previously succeeded in obtaining UFO documents from the CIA and NSA, was unconvinced. U.S. District Court Judge Stephen M. McNamee ruled that the DOD must respond to Gersten's demand, requiring them to provide details of their search parameters. However, the judge later ruled in favor of the DOD, closing the case, though Gersten was considering an appeal.

Laser traces UFO path for TV

This article from the News-Democrat in Belleville, IL, reports on a theatrical effects company, Strictly FX, using high-powered laser beams to trace the path of a mysterious flying object reported on January 5th for a Discovery Channel program. The event aimed to recreate the path of a triangular object with three bright lights seen by civilians and police officers in Highland and Lebanon. Scott Air Force Base denied any knowledge of such aircraft testing.

Eerie lights seen in sky over Oceanside

This piece from the Headlight-Herald describes an unidentified flying object spotted above Three Arch Rocks in Oceanside. David Presha reported seeing a self-contained orange light moving horizontally and vertically with no sound. The Air Force stated that night operations were not underway in the area at the time. The article also provides contact information for the National UFO Reporting Center.

Against the Grain: Boulder's hub of crop circle research, and a breakthrough may be near

This article from the Weekly in Boulder, CO, focuses on crop circle research, featuring local experts like Dr. Simeon Hein, Ron Russell, and Roy Stewart. Dr. Hein, a former college professor, expresses his fascination with crop circles, stating that they cannot be easily explained and feel 'alive and energetic.' The article lists numerous theories about crop circle origins, from superior life forms to pranksters. It highlights Boulder's significant interest in the global crop circle community. Ron Russell, a key figure in crop circle research, is described as influential in promoting scientific study. Engineer Roy Stewart proposes a theory that radar satellites orbiting Earth create crop circles as part of their calibration system, comparing the microwave-like effects on crops to those found in man-made circles. The article also contrasts 'human-made' crop circles with those of 'unknown cause,' detailing differences in physical characteristics and energetic effects.

How to hoax a crop circle

This section provides a humorous, step-by-step guide on how to create a fake crop circle, emphasizing the use of simple tools like string and wooden boards, and the importance of stealth and beer.

Crop circles: Fake vs. real

This comparison chart outlines the distinguishing features between human-made crop circles and those of unknown origin, focusing on physical evidence, plant characteristics, and energetic effects.

UFO museum offering $1 million for an artifact from the 1947 crash

This article from the Daily Record in Roswell, NM, reports that the International UFO Museum and Research Center is offering up to $1 million for a scientifically verified artifact from the 1947 crash near Roswell. The artifact must be proven to be of extraterrestrial origin and manufactured.

Sleeping with the aliens

This piece from the National Post in Toronto, Canada, covers the 21st annual Rocky Mountain UFO Conference, which focuses on alien abductees. It describes the experiences of individuals who claim to have had encounters, ranging from joyful to mistreatment. Tom and Joan Bishop share positive experiences, while 'Janet' recounts harrowing tales of abduction and hybrid children. The article notes the reluctance of abductees to come forward due to ridicule and fear of repercussions. Franklin Carter, president of the Institute for UFO Research, states the conference aims to help abductees integrate their experiences. Bob White displays a metallic object he claims is a piece of a UFO. Anna Hayes discusses alien civilizations, and Pamela Stonebrooke shares accounts of sexual encounters with Reptilians.

Trio sues for clearer focus on UFOs

This article from the Journal in Alexandria, VA, reports on a civil suit filed by Larry W. Bryant and two others against Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore, demanding that the state address UFOs and alien abduction. The suit seeks a grand jury investigation, a task force, and a rapid reaction force to repel 'non-human/humanoid/alien entities.' Bryant, who directs Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, believes the government is hiding crucial information and that the issue is a matter of public safety.

Destination Schaumburg: Stalked by aliens? You're not alone.

This article from Readers Guide in Chicago, IL, features Mary Kerfoot, who claims to have been visited by extraterrestrials throughout her life. She organized UFO educational forums and hosts a support group called CACES (Chicago Area Center for Encounter Support). The article details experiences of CACES members, including claims of lost items reappearing, strange marks on bodies, and communication with aliens. It also touches on the possibility of alien interest in children and the group's attempts to initiate contact. Nellie Moore describes a device that aids clairaudience, and Bob recounts experiences of being abducted and having medical examinations where no evidence of heart disease was found.

UFO theorists gain support abroad, but repression at home

This article from The Globe in Boston, MA, discusses a study by French officials that suggests 'numerous manifestations observed by reliable witnesses could be the work of craft of extraterrestrial origin.' The report, titled 'UFOs and Defense: What Should We Prepare For?', was authored by high-ranking French military and defense officials. It notes that about 5% of documented sightings cannot be easily attributed to earthly sources and suggests they are 'completely unknown flying machines with exceptional performances.' The article contrasts this with the U.S. military's approach, which it describes as an 'impressive repressive arsenal' including disinformation and regulations prohibiting public disclosure of UFO sightings. It mentions Edgar Mitchell, Apollo 14 astronaut, supporting international cooperation on UFOs and calling for congressional hearings. The article also references historical concerns about UFOs from figures like Admiral Lord Hill-Norton and General L.M. Chassin.

Events in Roswell in 1947 still fuel debate on UFOs

This article from the Post in Salisbury, NC, features Dennis Balthaser discussing the 1947 Roswell incident. Balthaser, who has been featured on various media outlets, believes the government lied about the event. He suggests that the government uses extraterrestrial beings to construct new technology and that information about UFOs is suppressed due to a desire for 'control' and potential disruption to religions. He also references biblical texts that he believes support the existence of aliens.

Crop circles appear close to home

This article from the Gazette in Chillicothe, OH, reports on the appearance of three crop circles on the farm of Roscoe and Elizabeth Swartz in Bainbridge. The circles, discovered in a wheat field, are described as geometrically perfect and of unknown origin, with theories ranging from aliens to pranksters. The Swartz family had no explanation for their appearance.

This laser show is no UFO

This article from the News-Democrat in Belleville, IL, clarifies that bright lights seen in the sky over Highland and Lebanon were part of a laser show by a Chicago-based company, Strictly FX, for a Discovery Channel program. The laser show was designed to trace the path of a UFO reported earlier that year. The Federal Aviation Administration was notified, and warnings were issued to pilots.

'X-Files' Case Lands in Va.

This article from the Post in Washington, DC, details a lawsuit filed by Larry W. Bryant and two other Virginians against Governor James S. Gilmore III, demanding that the state address UFOs and alien abduction. The lawsuit seeks a grand jury investigation, a state police task force, and a rapid reaction force to repel 'clandestine invasion.' Bryant, who directs Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, believes the issue is a matter of public safety and that witnesses are telling the truth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent question of extraterrestrial life, the alleged government cover-up of UFO-related information, and the investigation into unexplained aerial phenomena. The articles collectively suggest a growing public interest and a desire for transparency regarding UFOs, with a notable shift towards more official and scientific inquiries, as exemplified by the French military study and legal challenges. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the possibility of UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence, while also acknowledging the skepticism and the need for credible evidence. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of investigating these phenomena and making information accessible to the public.

This issue of FOREIGN NEWS, dated June 1, 2000, focuses on UFO phenomena, pilot disappearances, and other unexplained events. The cover story details new findings that may pinpoint the location of pilot Frederick Valentich's plane, which vanished in 1978.

Plane's Location Believed Found: The Valentich Case

The main article, by Rick Bayne and Pat Connelly, reports on new evidence that could solve the 21-year-old mystery of pilot Frederick Valentich's disappearance over Bass Strait. Three witnesses who were rabbit hunting in the area at the time reported seeing a green light hovering over Valentich's plane moments before it disappeared. UFO investigators Paul Norman and Richard F. Haines have compiled a 15-page summary, concluding that the plane likely crashed into the ocean southeast of Cape Marengo. They are seeking sponsors for an underwater search for the wreckage. Paul Norman stated that this is the first time they have been able to plot what happened based on circumstantial evidence and now want to proceed with a search. Guido Valentich, Frederick's father, had actively sought clues to his son's disappearance until his death in April, and was aware of the case's developments.

The article includes a verbatim transcript of Valentich's final radio communications with air traffic controllers, during which he described being followed by a large aircraft with four bright lights, which he believed was 'playing some sort of game' and 'hovering' over him. The transmission ended with a prolonged, unexplained metallic sound.

More People Spot UFOs

This section compiles several recent UFO sightings from England:

• Rugby, England (February 24, 2000): Simon Watts and his partner Lisa Clements reported seeing a metallic diamond-shaped object with bright blue and white shine, and a reddish-pink light in the middle, flying at a steep angle before disappearing.
• Rugby, England (February 13, 2000): Mike Harris and his wife Pam saw large triangular orange lights in their wing mirror, which disappeared quickly. They initially thought it might be an emergency vehicle but found no explanation.
• Warwickshire (various dates): Geoffrey Brownlow, a local UFO investigator, has been contacted by several people who have witnessed similar sightings of metallic silver diamond shapes, some described as travelling very fast and changing course abruptly.

Bordesley Triangle Mystery

Redditch, England (March 1, 2000): A man reported seeing a strange triangular object hovering 25 meters above the ground near Bordesley Garage. A research group is seeking other witnesses in the Redditch or Alvechurch area.

Man Makes Another UFO Claim

Dundee, Scotland (February 3, 2000): A man from Inchyra, Carse of Gowrie, who wished to remain anonymous, reported seeing a cigar-shaped object flying in bright sunshine. He described it as silver with four or five black markings, flying slowly at about 5000 feet. Calls to RAF Leuchars and Tayside Police did not resolve the mystery.

Aliens Abducted Me, Says Tetney Woman

Grimsby, England (April 4, 2000): Elaine King, 40, of Tetney Lock, claims she was abducted by aliens and taken aboard a steel-like spaceship. She reported seeing beings examining the insides of another human and communicating with her telepathically. The experience lasted only 11 and a half minutes. She also claims to have had many other 'alien' encounters, including seeing unearthly lights and having out-of-body experiences.

Grimsby, England (April 14, 2000 - World's Fair): This article reiterates Elaine King's abduction claim and also mentions Tony Kelsey, a fruiterer, who reported seeing a pure white unearthly object hovering in the sky above Grimsby on the same day as King's abduction. RAF investigations found no aircraft in the area.

Strange Object in the Sky

Rugby, England (February 24, 2000): Simon Watts and his partner Lisa Clements reported seeing an unexplained flying object on February 13. They described it as a diamond shape with a metallic look, emitting bright blue and white shine, with a reddish-pink light in the middle and a hazy white glow. Simon has contacted air traffic control and the Ministry of Defence.

Amazed by Sighting of a UFO

Mansfield, England (June 7, 2000): Amie Wragg reported seeing a shiny round object with lights hovering not far off the ground, accompanied by a high-pitched buzzing noise. After the object disappeared, she noticed a 'sickening' strong smell of sulphur burning.

Nigel's Book Lifts Lid on Early Close Encounters

Plymouth, England (March 25, 2000): Nigel Watson, a local expert, has written a book titled 'Scareship Mystery,' which examines sightings of phantom airships and UFOs around World War One. Watson notes that explanations for strange lights in the sky have shifted from invasion fears (Germans) to alien encounters.

Why Colin is Saucer-Eyed

Coventry, England (June 13, 2000): Colin Saunders, a former aircraft designer, reported seeing a large pyramid-shaped spacecraft with rounded corners and a metallic, shimmering surface hovering 100 feet in the air. The craft had lines resembling a garden maze and tilted before shooting off towards Coventry. His family also experienced electrical problems afterward. Saunders built a scale model of the UFO. John Hanson, a former police officer and UFO investigator, has documented many similar cases and criticizes authorities for dismissing UFO reports.

Pick of the Galleries: Tales of Unexpected Visitors

London, England (May 28, 2000): This piece reviews an art installation called 'Witness' by Susan Hiller, which features audio recordings of UFO sightings. The installation explores the human need for belief in something beyond the ordinary.

Local UFO Sightings

This section lists several UFO sightings reported in the UK:

• Nuneaton, England (October 1995): Steve Whittingham and Robert witnessed a bright fireball and a triangular aircraft.
• Tamworth, England (November 1995): Jane Bayley saw a bullet-shaped wingless plane with a flashing yellow light.
• Austrey, England (November 1995): Jane Bayley saw a flying saucer hovering over a farmhouse.
• Sheepy Magna to Tamworth, England (March 1996): A taxi driver encountered a blinding white light that changed into a pyramid of square blocks of light.
• Birmingham, England (January 1995): Several people reported seeing a red ball with a blue head flying at high speed.
• Birmingham, England (1996): Motorists on the M6 reported a triangular craft hovering with red lights and a large white light.
• Crick, England (October 1995): Teacher Avril Osborne witnessed a triangular mass of orange light travelling silently.
• Water Orton, Warwickshire, England (December 1999): Five silver discs were seen hovering, prompting alerts to Birmingham Airport and the Ministry of Defence.

Some Close Encounters

Wales (May 16, 2000): Members of the South Wales Unidentified Flying Object Network (SWUFON) reported various encounters, including a plane disappearing into a mountain, men in silver and black body suits seen digging, and talk of an underground base near Brecon. One investigator claims his house was burnt down after getting too close to a subterranean chamber.

UFO Mystery Remains Unsolved

Telford, England (May 30, 2000): The Shropshire Star reports on the case of Carl Farlow, a lorry driver who in 1967 had a close encounter with a flying saucer that stopped his truck and damaged the road surface. UFO investigators are trying to locate him to discuss the incident further. Paul Fuller of Ufoin suggests it might have been a rare meteorological phenomenon or ball lightning, but acknowledges the damage to the road surface is unusual.

Man Shares His Close Encounter

Sorrento, British Columbia, Canada (June 16, 2000): Sam Nazaruk, a retired electrical engineer, recounts seeing a silver metallic disc-shaped object with an orange-red vertical band hovering near his home. He described the object as having human-like features and changing expressions, suggesting it possessed reasoning abilities. He also reported seeing a being crawling on its knees and elbows. His wife, Anita, believes him due to his logical nature.

Alien Video Claims Made

Ilkley, England (February 10, 2000): Graham Birdsall, editor of UFO Magazine, claims to have obtained secret NASA footage of space shuttle missions that allegedly show alien encounters. He plans to present this footage at a UFO conference and release it online. Birdsall dismisses NASA's explanations of ice crystals, stating the objects in the footage stop, hover, and speed off.

Yukon UFO Conference

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada (June 9, 2000): A Yukon UFO Conference is planned, featuring experts like nuclear physicist Stanton T. Friedman. The conference aims to promote discussion about UFO sightings and mitigate the ridicule factor that prevents people from coming forward.

Vance Orchard: Touchet Valley Ramblings - A Long Look at a Bigfoot!

Waitsburg, WA (May 4, 2000): This column discusses the ongoing debate about Bigfoot, citing thousands of claimed sightings. It recounts an interview with a man nicknamed 'Jack the Logger' who claims to have had a close encounter with a Bigfoot on a mountain road. Jack described the creature as having human-like features, being taller than eight feet, and walking with a limp. He believes the creature was intelligent and not an ape.

D.B. Cooper, Bigfoot, UFOs Have a Thing in Common

Vancouver, WA (April 25, 2000): This article from 'The Columbian' discusses a book, '100 of the World's Greatest Mysteries,' which includes chapters on D.B. Cooper, Bigfoot, and flying saucers. It highlights the D.B. Cooper hijacking case and the theory that Bigfoot may inhabit the Pacific Northwest. It also touches on crop circle mysteries and early UFO sightings.

Ogopogo Staying in Manitoba

Toronto, Ontario, Canada (May 26, 2000): The feature film about the Ogopogo monster is back on track for shooting in Manitoba, with a $25-million budget.

An Ancient Hand's Touch

Princeton, B.C., Canada (May 1, 2000): Jonas Faber, an Inuit soapstone carver, believes he has discovered a large pre-historic site of stoneworks near the Similkameen River. He found aligned boulders, stone circles, and a curving rock wall, which he interprets as celestial compasses used by an ancient culture to track the stars. While some archaeologists are skeptical, they acknowledge the presence of a pit house and other arranged stones. The Similkameen band is concerned about the site's protection. Faber believes the site could be 4,000 to 10,000 years old and is of immense archaeological importance.

Monsters Are Lurking in the Wilds of Ohio

Columbus, OH (June 17, 2000): This piece reviews a book, 'The Field Guide to North American Monsters,' which lists creatures like cattle mutilators, Mothman, and the Armouchiquois, described as ancient, territorial humanoids who attack humans. The article notes their preference for wild areas and their volatile temper.

Space Travel May Become 10 Times Faster

Greenbelt, MD (June 13, 2000): Robert Winglee, a professor at the University of Washington, is developing a magnetic propulsion system that could make space travel about 10 times faster by creating a magnetic bubble to deflect the solar wind. This technology, if perfected, could enable travel to the edge of the solar system in three to four years.

Giant Ice Cubes from Clear Skies Tested in Spain

Madrid (June 9, 2000): Giant ice cubes that fell from clear Spanish skies in January are being studied. Experts have ruled out meteorites, comets, and aircraft as causes, suggesting global warming might be a factor by causing cooling in the stratosphere. The phenomenon has historical precedents.

Man 'Made Cold by the Universe' Walks Delta

Anchorage, AK (April 15, 2000): The Daily News reports on the case of Richard Pavilla, who disappeared in December while snowmachining. Despite search efforts ending, people in several villages have reported seeing him. Elders describe his condition as being 'feather-light' and 'wary as a wild bird,' a state known in Yup'ik as 'cillem quellra' or 'made cold by the universe.' This condition is believed to occur when someone gets lost and frightened, becoming detached from the physical world.

Sheriff Closes Out 'Creature' Investigation

Neillsville, WI (April 12, 2000): The Clark County Sheriff has closed an investigation into a reported sighting of a 'Bigfoot'-like creature, stating no further sightings have been reported and the creature does not appear to be a threat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien encounters, and other unexplained phenomena, including Bigfoot and mysterious aerial objects. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events with a degree of open-mindedness, presenting witness accounts and expert opinions while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for further investigation. The magazine highlights the persistent nature of these reports across different regions and time periods, suggesting a widespread interest in the unknown. There is a clear emphasis on presenting firsthand accounts and the challenges faced by witnesses in being believed by authorities.