UFO Newsclipping Service - 2000 08 - no 373

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated August 2000, focuses on the increasing intersection of UFO phenomena with politics and government secrecy. The cover story, "UFOs enter the world of politics," highlights concerns raised by democratic presidential candidate Dr. Heather Harder and Steven Bassett, chairman of X-PPAC, regarding government transparency on UFO matters. The publication also features detailed reports on UFO sightings, investigations, and related events from various locations across the United States.

UFOs Enter the World of Politics

The lead article by Gary Val Tenuta discusses how UFO secrecy has become a political issue. Dr. Heather Harder expresses skepticism about the government's willingness to release information, suggesting that some classified information might be beyond even the President's access. Steven Bassett of X-PPAC describes government practices as "managed information," akin to propaganda, aimed at steering public perception. Bassett questions the government's claim of having no significant UFO information beyond Project Bluebook, pointing to the frequent redaction of documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). A grassroots movement is pushing for Congressional hearings on UFO secrecy, with an initiative in Missouri collecting 30,000 signatures despite delays. Bassett anticipates increased "sophisticated" legal activism regarding UFOs.

Friedman Details Theories on U.S. UFO Conspiracy

Stanton Friedman, a nuclear physicist and UFO expert, presented his theories on a large-scale government cover-up at the International UFO Museum and Research Center. Titled "The Cosmic Watergate," his talk addressed the Roswell Incident and government explanations. Friedman challenged the "Project Bluebook" conclusion that only 3 percent of sightings were unexplained, citing the report itself which indicated 30.8 percent were unexplained or lacked sufficient information, with 35.1 percent of 'quality' sightings being unexplained. He also critiqued the 1969 University of Colorado study for failing to explain 30 percent of its examined sightings. Friedman discussed the inconsistencies in witness accounts of the Roswell Incident's alleged weather balloon, particularly regarding its size. He claimed the wreckage was flown to Wright Field for reverse-engineering. Friedman debunked the 1990s Air Force explanation of "crash test dummies," noting they were not used until 1953 and were unlikely to be mistaken for aliens. He recounted his initial interest in Roswell stemming from a 1978 encounter with Maj. Walter Marcel. Friedman detailed his legal battles to obtain UFO documents, often receiving heavily redacted materials. He expressed hope that recent legislation would declassify older documents, noting President Clinton's efforts. Friedman concluded that proving extraterrestrial contact would ultimately unite Earth, stating, "Nationalism is the curse of mankind" and "Are we being told the whole truth? No. Absolutely not."

Enthusiasts Scan Sky Every Year

This article by Bill Briggs profiles the annual UFO conference in Laramie, Wyoming, and the dedicated enthusiasts who attend. The event draws people from across the country to the McGuire Ranch, known for reported sightings of strange lights. Franklin Carter, the conference leader, emphasizes the belief system of these attendees. The article notes a 30 percent increase in registrations for the conference and a growing mailing list for the Institute for UFO Research, reflecting a broader mainstream interest in UFOs. A poll found that over 100 million US residents believe UFOs are real. The article touches on the stigma associated with UFO belief, with Carter acknowledging the difficulty people face in discussing encounters due to fear of ridicule. It also mentions other speakers at the conference, including Pamela Stonebrook discussing alien hybrids and Reptilians, and Bob White's account of a metallic debris sighting. "Closed sessions" are held for attendees to share personal experiences without fear of judgment. The article describes a skywatching event at the McGuire Ranch, where attendees hope to witness UFOs, and mentions the preparation exercises led by Anna Hayes to "turn on their inner senses." The article notes that "flaps," periods of increased sightings, have been occurring in the western US.

Stranger Than Fiction (San Luis Valley)

Christopher O'Brien reports on anomalous events in the San Luis Valley, Colorado, which was once considered America's most active UFO hotspot. While reports have decreased in recent years, the article details a few intriguing incidents. One involves a motorist encountering a "temporary air traffic control tower" and men in a tan sedan, followed by two black, triangular craft and conventional jet fighters. The motorist was subsequently stopped by men in a white Ford Explorer who checked her van for radioactive materials. Another incident describes two empty tan sedans and a white Ford Explorer with flashing lights stopping the motorist. The article also mentions a UFO Watchtower near Hooper, Colorado, where a bronze, cigar-shaped light was observed. Judy Messoline, the owner, is not yet a believer but is intrigued. Her partner, Stan Becker, had a past encounter with a "USAF" marked craft. The Watchtower offers a place for visitors to share stories and camp overnight. The article also touches on the concept of "alien hybrids" and the possibility of them learning line dancing, as taught by MUFON state director Beverly Trout.

An update on UFO pursuits

George Fawcett provides an update on UFO investigations in the Carolinas, noting that North Carolina ranks fourth and South Carolina twelfth nationally for reported UFO encounters. He mentions investigating over 1,500 case histories, including landings, occupant encounters, and radar trackings. Fawcett states that UFOs continue to demonstrate strange effects on humans, animals, and machines. He asserts that UFOs remain a highly classified subject, ranking above the H-bomb in secrecy. Government conclusions, derived from over 50,000 FOIA documents, indicate that UFOs are real, not natural phenomena, not conventional objects, possess high technology, and pose a threat to national security and human survival. The 696th Air Intelligence Group at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, reportedly continues to investigate the phenomenon. President Bill Clinton's Executive Order #12958 is expected to declassify National Security Documents dating from 1975 and prior, potentially revealing information about major UFO waves from the 1940s-1970s. Fawcett began investigating UFOs in 1944 and mentions the Ken Arnold sighting in 1947. He notes that scientists globally are urging new investigations, and a commission funded by Laurence Rockefeller produced "The Best Evidence Available." California leads in UFO reports, followed by New Mexico, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Most sightings occur at night (65%), with 35% being daylight encounters. Only one percent are proven hoaxes.

We are not alone

This article by Tim Schmitt focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena in Iowa. It details a sighting of a large red object hovering over Des Moines, which dropped a blinking red object. Beverly Trout, the state director for MUFON, investigates such reports, emphasizing confidentiality for witnesses. Trout, described as a "skeptical believer," has investigated hundreds of sightings in Iowa since 1991. The article recounts a sighting of a triangular craft followed by jet fighters and subsequent encounters with men in government-marked vehicles checking for radiation. It also mentions crop circles appearing in Iowa, with soil samples showing microwave radiation and unusual snowmelt patterns. The article touches on theories about crop circles, including alien formation and sampling. Beverly Trout also discusses her personal experiences with abduction and experimentation, which she finds terrifying. She also mentions teaching "alien hybrids" line dancing, a concept she finds difficult to explain but believes in. The article notes that UFOs have been around for centuries, with some textbooks suggesting their presence for 50,000 years.

Would you report a UFO? The truth is out there

Bill Johnson's column discusses the reluctance of people to report UFO sightings due to fear of ridicule. He references Don Berliner, editor of The UFO Report, who states that most media people today are not familiar with the history of UFO reporting. Berliner believes there is a "big story" about UFOs that has been covered for half a century. He notes that only one in ten sightings are reported and that the government stopped accepting reports in 1969 due to flawed explanations. Lights seen at night are often dismissed as meteors or planes, making detailed reports crucial. Johnson shares personal anecdotes and quotes from readers who have experienced UFO sightings but chose not to report them due to fear of being labeled crazy or facing ridicule. He emphasizes that many pilots are afraid to come forward with their experiences. Johnson expresses his belief in UFOs and his desire to understand the mystery, hoping to live long enough to find the answer.

New Mexico town celebrates its UFO heritage

This article by George D. Fawcett describes Roswell, New Mexico, as the "alien capital of the world" and a major tourist destination due to the 1947 alleged UFO crash. The International UFO Museum and Research Center is a key attraction, housing information and artifacts related to the incident. The museum director, Carol Syska, aims to encourage open-mindedness rather than convincing visitors of alien existence. The museum sees about 180,000 visitors annually and displays government documents acquired through FOIA. The article also mentions alien-themed gift shops and an alien studio for photo opportunities. Fawcett, an advisor to the museum, notes the processing of over 50,000 UFO items donated to the museum. The annual Roswell UFO Festival featured various events, including a musical based on the Roswell crash, a UFO parade, and guest appearances. Stanton Friedman spoke about the "Cosmic Watergate" and government cover-ups, displaying documents. Peter Davenport, director of the National UFO Reporting Center, discussed numerous UFO cases. The article highlights the fireworks displays and a laser show at the Robert Goddard Planetarium. Fawcett concludes by recommending Roswell as an "out-of-this-world" vacation destination.

E.T. WATCH

Deborah Frazier reports on the UFO Watchtower in the San Luis Valley, Colorado, opened by Judy Messoline. The tower has already recorded a sighting of a bronze, cigar-shaped light. While Messoline is not yet a believer, she is intrigued. Her partner, Stan Becker, had a past encounter with a "USAF" marked flying object. The Watchtower, a 10-foot-high observation deck, serves as a place for visitors to share UFO stories, buy gifts, and camp overnight. The article mentions a sighting of a circular object with red, white, and teal lights that responded to a flashlight signal. It also touches on the connection between UFOs and Hopi prophecy, with Elder Dan Katchongva believing that flying saucers are part of Hopi religious beliefs and that survivors of a "Day of Purification" will travel to other planets. The article mentions the division of the Hopi people and the prophecy of a "True White Brother." It also notes the discovery of mutilated cattle in Central Oregon, with authorities suspecting human involvement or possibly UFOs, referencing John F. Kennedy Jr.'s past observations on the phenomenon.

Davenport highlights various UFO sightings

Peter B. Davenport, director of The National UFO Recording Center, discussed various UFO sightings, including the 1997 Phoenix Lights Incident, where thousands of witnesses reported a triangular, heavily lit object. He also spoke about other large instances of UFO sightings and took questions from the audience. Davenport noted that the Phoenix Lights object may have changed shape and that the details of its size and lights were disputed. He offered a hypothesis that the UFO sighting over Arizona led to the US Air Force intercepting the object, causing Cheyenne Mountain to go to DEFCON 3 status, potentially leading to President Clinton's injury during his relocation. Davenport, who has been investigating UFOs since 1965, became interested after seeing his first UFO in 1954. He estimates he has heard between 50,000 and 75,000 reports since 1994.

It's UFO time, enjoy!

This article announces the annual celebration of UFO culture, highlighting increased attractions and entertainment. It notes mixed reactions, with "hard-core believers" in Roswell seeing it as the "Holy Grail" of UFO history. The article suggests that belief in UFOs can provide a sense of awe, mystery, and purpose. It acknowledges the existence of "very, very strange phenomena" in the skies, with a significant portion of sightings defying easy explanation. Several governments, including France, Belgium, and Spain, have admitted to being baffled by certain UFO incidents. The article encourages attendees to "put aside serious debate, let our hair down and have some serious fun," regardless of their beliefs.

Nine days at Roswell

George D. Fawcett recounts his sixth trip to Roswell, New Mexico, for the annual UFO Festival. He highlights the controversy and commercialization surrounding the 1947 alleged UFO crash. Fawcett details the work of the International UFO Museum and Research Center (IUFOMRC), which receives thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival featured various events, including costume contests, art exhibits, concerts, and appearances by actors. Stanton Friedman spoke about government cover-ups, and Peter Davenport discussed UFO cases. Fawcett mentions the "Six Days in Roswell" movie and an alien scavenger hunt. He also notes the discovery of an unusual silver artifact and the Frass meteorite at the IUFOMRC. Fawcett expresses his enjoyment of the festival and plans to return.

UFOs With Kachina Pilots?

Christopher O'Brien explores the connection between UFOs and Native American traditions, particularly Hopi prophecies. He references Hopi Elder Dan Katchongva, who believed UFO sightings were linked to Hopi religious beliefs and prophecies of a "Day of Purification." The article mentions a rock carving near Mishongnovi, Arizona, that allegedly describes "flying saucers" and space travel. It also discusses the division of the Hopi people and the prophecy of a "True White Brother." The article briefly touches on the discovery of mutilated cattle in Central Oregon and references John F. Kennedy Jr.'s past observations on the phenomenon.

STRANGER THAN FICTION (Colorado Reports)

This section details several unusual aerial sightings reported in Southern Colorado. One report describes a "metallic sphere" witnessed near Antonito. Another involves a mother driving near Olathe who had a confrontational encounter with a low-flying aerial craft. The article also mentions reports from the San Luis Valley, where a UFO Watchtower has been established. The tower has recorded a sighting of a bronze, cigar-shaped light. The article notes that while some believe these sightings are connected to Hopi prophecies, others remain skeptical.

STRANGER THAN FICTION (BBC News reports on USA spy program)

This section discusses the Echelon system, a US electronic surveillance program investigated by the European Parliament. Allegations suggest the system is used to spy on companies in the EU and help American firms win commercial contracts. Both the US and UK have denied these allegations. The report compiled by Duncan Campbell names Microsoft, IBM, and a large American microchip maker as providing product features that enabled information interception. The existence of Echelon was confirmed by the US Government through the declassification of NSA documents.

STRANGER THAN FICTION (Who done it?)

This section reports on the discovery of ten mutilated calves in Central Oregon, near a site where similar incidents occurred the previous year. Authorities suspect human involvement or possibly UFOs, referencing John F. Kennedy Jr.'s past observations on cattle mutilations, where he described a "diabolical" event that could have come from outer space or Washington, D.C.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government secrecy and transparency concerning UFO phenomena, the persistent nature of UFO sightings and encounters worldwide, and the cultural impact of the Roswell Incident. The articles collectively suggest a growing public interest and a desire for answers, while also acknowledging the skepticism and ridicule faced by those who report such experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives from believers, skeptics, and researchers, and encouraging readers to consider the evidence and form their own conclusions. There is a clear emphasis on the need for more open investigation and declassification of government documents related to UFOs.

This issue of the Daily Mail, dated July 14, 2000, features a prominent cover story on a complex crop circle discovered in Wiltshire, UK. The magazine delves into various paranormal and unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, Bigfoot reports, and the investigation of these subjects by government agencies and private researchers.

'In shredded wheat, the spookiest crop circle yet'

The lead article by James Chapman details a large, intricate crop circle that appeared overnight in a wheat field near East Kennett, Wiltshire. The formation, described as a grid of nearly 800 squares and rectangles enclosed in a circle, has baffled observers with its geometric precision. While crop circle enthusiasts view it as a message from higher intelligence, sceptics attribute it to pranksters. Charles Mallett, an early visitor, described the atmosphere as 'heavy and oppressive' and noted the 'great skill and precision' of its construction. Lucy Pringle, a crop circle researcher, mentions reports of battery failures and credit cards being wiped within circles, suggesting unusual energy effects. The article also references the confession of Doug Bower and David Chorley in 1991, who claimed to have created crop circles since the Seventies, though they stated they had ceased their activities. However, Bower insists that the recent circles are the work of others copying their methods.

UFOs in the Northern Territory, Australia

An article from the Northern Territory News (June 10, 2000) by Melanie van Helvoort explores UFO activity in Australia's Northern Territory. Keith Douglas, research officer for Australian International UFO Flying Saucer Research, suggests that the Territory is a stop-off point on an 'inter-galactic freeway.' Recent reports include sightings of formation-flying orange lights near Nightcliff. The article also mentions an incident in Alice Springs where a man reportedly lost 20 minutes of time and awoke with a nosebleed and strange markings, described as the closest thing to alien abductions in the region. Wycliffe Well Roadhouse is noted as a hotspot for sightings, possibly due to its proximity to the Pine Gap military facility. Diane Harrison of the Australian UFO Research Network states that many reported lights are similar to formations seen elsewhere in Australia and that Aboriginal stories about such lights predate human settlement.

UFO Sightings in the UK and Europe

Several shorter articles cover UFO sightings in the UK and Europe. A report from Sunday Life (April 30, 2000) highlights Apollo 14 astronaut Ed Mitchell's belief in UFOs and alien visitations, stating he will share his experiences in Northern Ireland. A piece from the Courier & Advertiser (Feb. 4, 2000) details a claim by a Monifieth woman who saw an 'enormous edifice' hovering in the sky in 1998, described as a sand-colored structure resembling two woks placed together. A report from the Telegraph & Argus (Jan. 27, 2000) discusses Bradford's bid to become a leading UFO research center, with the International UFO Research Network (IUFORN) proposing a headquarters to examine sightings. The article mentions Councillor Dave Green's cautious response regarding public funding for such a scheme.

Ministry of Defence UFO Files

Ron McManus, writing for the Weekly News (Jan. 8, 2000), interviews Nick Pope, a former senior investigator for the Ministry of Defence's 'UFO Desk' (Department 2A). Pope, who manned the desk for three years, states he went in as a sceptic but came out a believer, having investigated hundreds of unexplained cases, including scrambled fighter jets chasing mystery craft. He highlights a bizarre case from March 31, 1993, involving a triangle-shaped craft that moved at incredible speed and stopped instantly, which he concluded was extraterrestrial due to its impossible G-force capabilities. Pope also discusses the December 27, 1980, incident at RAF Woodbridge, where strange lights and a metallic, triangular craft were observed.

Conspiracy Theorists and Paranormal Beliefs

The SUN (July 7, 2000) reports on conspiracy theorists gathering in St. Paul, Alberta, to promote the UFO 2000 conference. The article touches on cattle mutilations, with investigator Fernand Belzil noting almost 50 reported cases in Alberta. Graham Conway, a UFO-chaser, links cattle mutilations to bisected cats and otters, suggesting alien involvement. The Lakelander (July 13, 2000) covers St. Paul's second UFO Conference, featuring experts on crop circles, cattle mutilations, and abductions. Nancy Talbot emphasizes the importance of reporting unusual phenomena while evidence is fresh. The article also discusses the potential for crop circles to be a form of communication and notes that laboratory tests on grain from crop circles show it germinates faster.

A piece from the Calgary Herald (March 11, 2000) by Nigel Hannaford questions the ease with which people accept paranormal explanations, noting that while belief in the paranormal is widespread, sufficient proof is often lacking. Kelly Morrison, writing for the Calgary Herald, discusses the 'occult following' of shows like The X-Files and the increasing number of believers in the paranormal, questioning whether the absence of proof constitutes proof of absence.

Bigfoot and Other Cryptids

Several articles focus on Bigfoot and other cryptid sightings. The Daily World (June 17, 2000) reports on a Bigfoot sighting near Forks, Washington, where a 16-inch footprint was found. The Daily World also mentions a report from Andy Mail about an acquaintance seeing alder trees bent over, possibly by the creature. The Log Cabin Democrat (Aug. 9, 2000) discusses the legend of the Fouke Monster in Arkansas and the White River Monster, noting that sightings of both have occurred in cycles. The South County Journal (June 11, 2000) features Cliff Crook, a Bigfoot enthusiast who claims to have found evidence of a 'clan' of Bigfoot in the Hoh Rain Forest, including footprints and hairs. However, an Idaho professor expressed disappointment that Crook allegedly ruined a footprint by taking a plaster cast before it could be properly studied.

Other Unexplained Phenomena

A report from the Columbian (April 11, 2000) discusses the Sci Fi channel's talk show 'Crossing Over With John Edward,' where the host acts as a medium to communicate with the deceased. The show is noted for its direct approach and the host's ability to provide specific details to validate his claims. The Post (Denver, CO, July 14, 2000) describes Alexander Golod's construction of large pyramids in Russia, which are believed by followers to have healing and life-prolonging properties, attracting hundreds of visitors seeking 'charged remedies.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the paranormal, and the search for truth beyond conventional explanations. There is a clear interest in UFOs, crop circles, and cryptids, with a focus on eyewitness accounts, investigative efforts, and the skepticism or belief surrounding these phenomena. The articles present a range of perspectives, from those who firmly believe in extraterrestrial or paranormal explanations to those who advocate for scientific investigation and caution against jumping to conclusions. The overall stance appears to be one of exploring these mysteries and presenting the evidence and theories, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown.