UFO Newsclipping Service - 2002 09 - no 398

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated September 2002, number 398, is titled 'Circles crop up in Iowa' and focuses on the phenomenon of crop circles and related UFO sightings. The publication compiles articles from various newspapers, offering a broad perspective on the subject.

Crop Circles in Iowa and Beyond

The lead article, 'Researchers look for signs of hoaxes' by Joanne Boeckman from the REGISTER, discusses crop circles discovered in Iowa, including one found near Iowa City the previous year. It highlights the theories surrounding their creation, such as plasma forces, vandals, or aliens, and introduces Beverly Trout, Iowa director of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON). MUFON members investigate crop circles by looking for signs of hoaxes, examining plant stalks, and collecting samples for analysis. The article notes that while the movie 'Signs' presents an alien-based explanation, real-life theories are diverse. It also mentions the movie's current playing status in local theaters.

Another article, 'Md. man says early-morning jet scramble was after UFO' from The Washington Post, details an incident where military jets were scrambled in Maryland after radar detected an unknown aircraft. Renny Rogers reported seeing a jet chase a blue object, but military officials stated they did not know what the jets were chasing as it disappeared.

'Westmoreland County has had its share of mysterious sightings' by Maryann Gogniat Eidemiller for the TRIBUNE-REVIEW, features Stan Gordon, a paranormal researcher who has spent 43 years investigating unexplained phenomena. The article mentions sightings of shiny spheres, large birds (thunderbirds), Bigfoot, and UFOs, and notes that an event would be displayed at Westmoreland Mall.

'A believer amongst a world of skeptics' by Roy Timm, an author from Pendleton, shares his lifelong experiences and beliefs in UFOs, extraterrestrials, and abductions. Timm, who is blind, has written a book titled 'Northwest History of Saucers, ETs, Abductions and More.' He advocates for government transparency regarding UFOs and believes aliens are trying to communicate a message about environmental protection.

'Strange red light baffles residents' from the REVIEW, Marlow, OK, reports on a mysterious bright red light observed drifting across the night sky, which baffled local residents and police.

'UFO returns to area, 50 years later?' from THE WASHINGTON TIMES, discusses the 50th anniversary of the 1952 Washington D.C. UFO sightings, which involved radar contacts and jet pursuits. It draws a parallel to a recent July 26 sighting in Maryland, where F-16 jets were scrambled after radar detected an unknown aircraft.

'Even police call him about the paranormal' by Ginny Kopas for the POST-GAZETTE, profiles Stan Gordon again, highlighting his extensive research into UFOs and Bigfoot. It mentions his video on the Kecksburg incident and his role as a contact for law enforcement regarding unusual calls.

'Going in circles over credibility of crop signs' by Abram Katz for REGISTER, New Haven, CT, discusses the origins of crop circles, noting that while some are known hoaxes, others remain mysterious. It questions the belief that complex patterns must be extraterrestrial in origin.

'WHAT REALLY GOES ON DURING UFO MEETINGS' by Harriett Ford for LABOR NEWS, Rockford, IL, describes attending a meeting featuring a clinical psychologist who specialized in alien abduction therapy. The article humorously recounts the psychologist's personal experiences and theories about alien races and repopulation efforts.

'Human intelligence tested by crop circles' by William T. Sherwood Henrietta for DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE, Rochester, NY, suggests that crop circles, regardless of their origin, serve as a wake-up call about humanity's imbalance and need for planetary stewardship.

'Cross roads for the galaxy' by Timothy Schäfer for The Interior News, reports on a surge of UFO sightings in the Bulkley Valley, Canada, in February 2002, with 11 reported sightings from 19 witnesses. It highlights the work of ufologist Brian Vike in investigating these incidents.

'Dolphin' UFO plea' from EVENING NEWS, Scarborough, England, asks for sightings of a mysterious dolphin-shaped object seen in the sky.

'ET crops up – holding a CD' from the DAILY MAIL, London, England, showcases a crop circle depicting an alien figure holding a disc, interpreted by some as containing a message.

'Sightings: What fact and what is fiction?' from MAIL, Hull, England, presents a list of 'facts' about UFOs according to experts, including media censorship and government preparation for landings, as well as human abductions and animal mutilations.

'UFOs SPY ON AIR BASES' from DAILY STAR, London, England, reports on a claim that UFOs have been spying on British air bases for 60 years, citing a new report and declassified government papers.

'Seeing the UFO light' by Denis Plunkett for DAILY TELEGRAPH, London, England, discusses the evolution of UFO sightings and the increasing use of technology in recording them.

'Close encounters of the crop-eating kind' by Helena Smith in Athens for GUARDIAN, London, England, details reports from farmers in Greece claiming UFOs have destroyed their crops, leaving holes in the soil.

'UFO phenomenon set to take Scots tourism into whole new dimension' by Rob Crilly for HERALD, Glascow, Scotland, discusses research suggesting Scotland is a hotspot for UFO sightings and how tourism officials plan to market this aspect.

'UFO meeting could be a case for Mulder and Scully' from NORTHWICH CHRONICLE, Chester, England, announces a conference by the British UFO Studies Centre (BUFOSC) featuring experts discussing government conspiracy, cattle mutilations, and UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the mystery and prevalence of crop circles, the ongoing investigation into UFO sightings worldwide, and the debate between hoaxes and genuine extraterrestrial phenomena. There is a consistent exploration of witness accounts, research findings, and the challenges of public and governmental acceptance of these topics. The publication appears to present a neutral stance, reporting on various theories and accounts without definitively endorsing one over the others, while also highlighting the skepticism and the search for credible evidence. The editorial stance leans towards encouraging investigation and open-mindedness towards unexplained phenomena, while acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and the need for scientific rigor.

This issue of the OBSERVER magazine, dated August 13, 2002, features a cover story on alleged UFO-related deaths and injuries in India, alongside articles on UFO sightings in Scotland, cattle mutilations, time travel research, and Bigfoot investigations.

Indian Villagers Blame UFOs for Deaths and Injuries

The lead story reports on a series of unexplained deaths and injuries in Uttar Pradesh, India, where villagers claim a mysterious flying sphere emitting red and blue lights is responsible. At least seven people have died from unexplained injuries, with victims suffering burns and wounds. While doctors dismiss the accounts as hysteria, police suggest the cause might be a 3/2-inch-long winged insect. Villagers remain unconvinced, leading to unrest and demands for authorities to capture the alleged attackers. The article mentions specific victims like Ramji Pal and Kalawati, and quotes police superintendent Kavindra Singh and district magistrate Amrit Abhijat.

'UFO Alley' in Scotland

Another significant section focuses on Scotland's reputation as a hotspot for UFO sightings, particularly around Bonnybridge, earning it the nickname 'UFO Alley'. A survey indicates Scotland sees four times as many UFOs as France and Italy. Investigator Jenny Randles discusses her work on paranormal phenomena in the region, including UFOs and ghosts. The article highlights the Falkirk triangle and mentions reports of strange lights, shimmering discs, and even alleged attacks by UFOs, such as the 1979 incident involving forestry worker Bob Taylor. The area has attracted visitors and there are even proposals for a UFO theme park. Councillor Billy Buchanan advocates for a visitors' centre, and VisitScotland acknowledges the area as a growth market for tourism.

Crop Circles Remain a Mystery

Colin Andrews, an expert on crop circles, expresses his bewilderment as the phenomenon remains largely unsolved despite years of research. He notes the influence of hoaxers and the potential romanticization of the subject due to Hollywood productions. While he considers ordinary crop circles a 'natural phenomenon,' their manufacture still eludes complete explanation. His book, due next year, is expected to be a definitive statement.

Time Travel Research by Physicist Ronald Mallett

A feature article explores the work of UConn physicist Ronald Mallett, who is attempting to build the world's first operative 'time machine'. Based on Einstein's theories, Mallett's machine would use a circulating light beam in a ring laser to bend space-time, potentially allowing for travel into the past. The article discusses the theoretical basis, including the concept of time as a fourth dimension and the bending of space-time by mass and energy. It also touches upon the 'grandfather paradox' and potential solutions like the 'many worlds theory' or a 'chronology protection conjecture'. Mallett's inspiration stems from his childhood fascination with H.G. Wells' 'The Time Machine' and a desire to see his deceased father again.

Bigfoot Backers and Sightings

Several articles cover the topic of Bigfoot. One reports on the International Bigfoot Society's annual conference in Hillsboro, where hundreds of believers shared sightings and artifacts. Ray Crowe, the society's director, discusses the challenges of proving Bigfoot's existence and the public's perception of believers. Another article details a Bigfoot sighting near Forks, Washington, where police investigated but found no evidence. A separate piece from Pennsylvania discusses the upcoming East Coast Bigfoot Conference and Expo, highlighting the efforts of the Pennsylvania Bigfoot Society to investigate sightings. The article also mentions the famous Patterson-Gimlin film as key evidence, while also noting skepticism from experts.

Cattle Mutilations Across Argentina and Uruguay

A series of translated reports detail numerous cases of cattle mutilations occurring across Argentina and Uruguay. Animals are found with precise surgical-like incisions, missing organs such as udders, tongues, eyes, and genitals. Veterinarians and officials are investigating, with some attributing the incidents to 'rogue surgeons' or 'esoteric practices', while dismissing extraterrestrial explanations. The reports cover incidents in various provinces including Buenos Aires, La Pampa, Rio Negro, Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, Santiago del Estero, and Chubut, as well as a case in Uruguay. The scale of the phenomenon suggests a widespread and organized activity, with some reports indicating over 200 cases.

Other Paranormal Topics

The issue also includes a brief mention of a 'wild man' sighting in Arkansas and a report on a UFO puzzle involving a possible sighting captured on camera.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, UFO sightings, and alleged encounters with unknown entities. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events and investigations, presenting various perspectives from believers, investigators, and skeptical authorities, while acknowledging the persistent mysteries surrounding these topics. The inclusion of scientific research, such as Mallett's time travel theories, alongside anecdotal evidence, suggests an interest in bridging the gap between fringe phenomena and scientific inquiry.