UFO Newsclipping Service - 2002 12 - no 401

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service, dated December 2002, Number 401, edited and published by Lucius Farish, focuses on the 50th anniversary of the Flatwoods Monster sighting and other UFO-related phenomena. The cover headline, "Opinion Still Split 50 Years After Monster Put Flatwoods on Map," sets the tone for the lead story.

The Flatwoods Monster: 50 Years Later

The main article, "Opinion Still Split 50 Years After Monster Put Flatwoods on Map," by G. Fawcett, revisits the September 12, 2002, 50th anniversary of the Flatwoods Monster appearance in West Virginia. It notes that the division between believers and skeptics remains, with a small group unsure of what to believe. The article recounts the initial sighting by a group of friends playing football, their investigation, and the involvement of Mrs. Kathleen May. It contrasts the original 1952 illustration of the monster with a more modern, high-tech interpretation by Frank Feschino, Jr., who has spent a decade researching the event. Feschino's book promises to reveal the 'real story' behind the monster, dividing the local community into two camps: believers and skeptics. A United Press article from September 14, 1952, is included, detailing the initial reports of a 'flying saucer' landing and a 'fire-breathing monster' described as 'worse than Frankenstein.' The article mentions the metallic odor and nauseating effect reported by witnesses. A. Lee Stewart, co-publisher of the Braxton County Democrat, organized a posse and noted a lingering 'warm and sickening' odor and trampled brush at the scene, expressing uncertainty about believing the reports but confirming the witnesses were scared.

The Flatwoods Monster: An Investigator's Perspective

An article by Frank Feschino, Jr., titled "Flatwoods Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Appearance of Famous Green Monster," delves deeper into his research. He posits that the September 12, 1952, event was a UFO crash, with the occupant confronting locals. Feschino claims the government orchestrated a disinformation plan to deflate the story and prevent nationwide panic, especially after the Washington D.C. UFO sightings shortly before. He asserts that his 10-year investigation has uncovered a massive government UFO cover-up, supported by official documents and witness testimonies. Feschino's book aims to expose this cover-up, which he believes is the best-kept secret in U.S. history. He highlights the difficulty in uncovering this truth, contrasting it with the government's swift action to suppress it. The article includes a photo of Feschino with witness Kathleen May.

Abduction Account: Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker

"Strange lights in the Gulf Coast sky: An Abductee's Story" by Billy Watkins details the account of Charles Hickson, who claims he and his fishing buddy Calvin Parker were abducted by a UFO on October 11, 1973. Hickson, now 71, has told his story under hypnosis and on national television, passing numerous lie-detector tests. He believes 'they' have kept track of him. The article describes the encounter: while fishing, they saw a hovering object with blue flashing lights. Three beings with 'elephant skin' and triangle-shaped ears emerged from a beam of light. They were described as robots that moved without touching the ground. The beings took Hickson and Parker, who had fainted, into the craft. Inside, they encountered an 'eyeball' machine and were examined. Hickson recounts his fear of being killed and never seeing his family again. He describes the beings as not as tall as him but holding him in a leaning position. After the examination, they were released back to the ground, leaving them weak. The article also mentions other witnesses who reported strange lights that night, including Mike Cataldo and Detective Puddin' Broadus, and quotes Glenn Ryder, a former captain who interrogated Hickson and Parker, stating he was convinced they had an experience. Calvin Parker, now 48, has largely avoided the media, with his stepmother Beverly Parker stating he won't talk about the incident anymore.

Crop Circles: Signs of the Times

Several articles focus on crop circles. "Signs of the times in Teton: Crop circles attract the curious and the serious" by Brian Davidson reports on the discovery of 12 crop circles in a wheat field near Teton, Idaho. The formation, about 100 yards wide, attracted locals and an expert from Colorado. The article notes that crop circles gained worldwide media attention after appearing in England and Australia, with 64 formations recorded in 2002. It mentions a previous crop circle in eastern Idaho in 1998. Theories about their origin range from hoaxes by students to extraterrestrial messages. The Marler family, who visited the site, saw the movie "Signs" and noted its popularity. The Parker family, who farm the land, have had to deal with curious visitors trampling their crops. They are selling aerial photos of the formations. "Cream of crop circles" by Nick Ellis features Gary Rowe, a paranormal investigator and co-founder of the Welsh Federation of Independent Ufologists, who has studied crop circles for 40 years. Rowe uses scientific equipment and believes that while some simple circles might be caused by wind, more elaborate patterns, known as pictograms, suggest alien involvement and messages. He notes that farmers sometimes profit from the circles by charging admission. He also mentions the possibility of alien craft landings causing indentations. The article touches on the movie "Signs" and Rowe's belief that science fiction films are often based on fact.

Roswell Incident: New Evidence and Investigations

"Roswell incident had victims, program says" by Richard Benke reports on a documentary suggesting new evidence for the Roswell crash. The documentary claims a computer analysis of a memo held by Brig. Gen. Roger Ramey during a 1947 press briefing is the 'smoking gun.' Researcher David Rudiak allegedly found phrases like 'the victims of the wreck' and 'in the 'disc' they will ship.' The article also mentions archaeological findings from alleged crash sites and the Air Force's shifting explanations for the incident, including a crash-test program involving mannequins. "Roswell excavation documented" by William Doleman discusses a documentary aired on the SCI FI channel about the excavation of an alleged UFO crash site in Roswell, led by a UNM archaeologist. The project is described as the first attempt to excavate physical evidence of the alien crash. Doleman stated that the project yielded 'intriguing and surprising results' but is kept confidential. He confirmed that 'something happened in July 1947' but remains uncertain about UFOs and alien beings.

Other UFO Sightings and Encounters

Several other sightings and encounters are reported: "UFO scare they didn't want you to know about" details a secret Ministry of Defence file about a triangular object sighted over Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, in December 1980, witnessed by US Air Force men, which emitted a 'red sun-like light' and left radioactive circular impressions. "Mum's shock at lights in the sky" by Greig Tindall recounts Gill Wood's experience of seeing four revolving lights hovering over her home in Sleights, North Yorkshire. "Close encounter with UFO truth" by Adam Hollier discusses an old hoax article from the Daventry Express about radio messages from WWII being picked up, suggesting that signals can escape and return from space. "UFO couple" reports on a mysterious green and orange light witnessed crashing to the ground in South Normanton. "To boldly go for an alien weekend" advertises a workshop covering psychic phenomena and UFO activity. "UFO sightings – more reported" by Dianne Stingemore details multiple sightings of mysterious lights in the sky in the Herne Bay area. "Eerie object is an arresting sight at 1,000ft" describes a police helicopter crew's pursuit of a glowing object near Brighton. "Was a UFO spotted near Stiff key?" is a query from a retired police officer seeking information about a railway carriage-like object seen near Stiffkey, England. "Aliens love to party" by Nicola Pittam quotes Dr. Krista Henriksen, a Close Encounters expert, who states that aliens are friendly, love group activities, and prioritize sharing knowledge, though they may smell of 'horse manure and pongy French cheese.' "IT'S OUT THERE AND IT'S SCARY" features Michael Rutherford, a UFO investigator from Barking, who became interested after seeing a cigar-shaped object. He believes aliens exist, have landed on Earth, and abducted people.

Encounters with Aliens: A New Perspective

"Encounters with aliens deeply moving, report says" by Dene Moore discusses a study by anthropologist Krista Henriksen on abductee accounts. Henriksen suggests that aliens often deliver messages of hope, telling abductees they are special and chosen to solve Earth's problems. While skeptical of actual abductions, Henriksen believes studying these accounts offers insight into human psychology and the search for meaning. The article notes an increase in UFO encounter reports paralleling new religious movements. Chris Rutkowski of Ufology Research of Manitoba is mentioned, stating there were 375 UFO sighting reports in Canada in 2001. The article suggests that while some encounters are perceived as religious experiences, the belief in extraterrestrial life is a spiritual experience for many.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien encounters, alleged government cover-ups, and the ongoing debate between belief and skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting on these phenomena, presenting various accounts and expert opinions without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but acknowledging the persistence and depth of public interest. The publication acts as a clearinghouse for UFO-related news clippings from various sources.

This issue of the News Shopper, dated September 18, 2002, focuses on 'Our 1950s X-Files experience,' highlighting an unidentified flying object (UFO) sighting in Bexley-heath, UK. The magazine features research by retired policeman John Hanson, who is compiling information for a book on the incident. The issue also includes reports on other UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, and big cat sightings, reflecting a broad interest in unexplained phenomena.

'Our 1950s X-Files experience'

The main article details a UFO sighting that occurred over 47 years prior in Bexley-heath. Rodney Maynard, then 15, recounts his childhood experience of seeing a craft land in King Harold's Way. He describes it as black, sleek, and streamlined with a surface like polished metal, featuring white lights and concave windows. The object hovered and then disappeared. Maynard recalls the event vividly, admitting he rarely spoke of it due to fear of ridicule. He lists several friends who also witnessed the event. Ken Fairman shares a similar sighting from 1952 in Bexleyheath, describing a craft with bright white lights that hovered silently before shooting off.

Lights in the sky bring back sighting memory

This article from the Whitby Gazette (September 20, 2002) features Michael Berkley, who recounts a sighting from almost 20 years prior in Littlebeck. While walking his dogs in 1983, he saw a small, blueish-green colored 'flare' that moved in a straight line towards him. He describes it as 18 to 20 feet across, shaped like a disc, and possessing dense lights. The object stopped when he shouted at it, hovered, and then aborted a landing attempt. Berkley believes the object sensed his anxiety. He later found his dogs at home and was concerned about radiation exposure. He decided to share his experience after reading about recent sightings, hoping to avoid being ridiculed.

Reports of UFO visits to towns in Cornwall

This report from West Briton (October 24, 2002) by Dave Gillham, an expert and UFO conference organiser, details UFO visits to towns in Cornwall, including Helston, Penryn, Perranwell, and Truro. Gillham runs the Cornwall UFO Research Group. The article mentions two people near Tintagel seeing a multi-coloured light and a Portreath resident spotting a boomerang object. It also references a December 2000 sighting of an object with white and orange lights. A spokesman for RNAS Culdrose suggested an aircraft on a rescue mission using flares might explain some sightings.

UFO expert in the spotlight

An article from Topper (October 16, 2002) interviews Nottingham-based UFO expert Tony James. James theorizes that aliens from Zeta Reticuli may have genetically upgraded humans, creating a 'missing link.' He believes governments cover up alien existence due to the economic impact of free energy technology. James also recounts personal sightings, including a 'black smartie tube' shaped object and another caught on camera in Florida. He discusses alien abduction and the possibility of government cover-ups related to Area 51.

Baffled by UFO sighting

This piece from Ripley & Heanor News (October 10, 2002) reports on a green light with a glowing orange tail seen by Gerald and Marie Mottram in Blackwell, near South Normanton. They feared it was a plane crash as it descended rapidly into fields. The object was described as not being a firework. The case is being investigated by the Phenomena Research Association.

Letters to the Editor (Crop Circles)

Several letters discuss crop circles. Kemp Levis expresses skepticism about finding 'deeper meaning' in crop circles, citing a documentary that demonstrated human creation of these formations. He suggests focusing on real-world problems. Paul Anderson clarifies his role as an active researcher with the Canadian Crop Circle Research Network, emphasizing his field research in Saskatchewan and Alberta, and his contribution to the Midale, Sask., photo used in the article.

Sighting in sky sparks off search for other UFO witnesses

From the Bury Times (August 23, 2002), this article reports on Sandra Pilkington's sighting of a 'silver ball' UFO over Bury. She described it as shooting across the sky at breakneck speed and lasting about five seconds. She is seeking other witnesses from the same night.

Translations: Mutilated Cows and UFOs in Argentina

This section presents several translated reports from Argentinian newspapers concerning animal mutilations and UFO sightings:

• July 11, 2002 - El Diario de La Pampa: Reports on a government-commissioned study suspecting a toxic agent in mutilated cow cases. The report by Dr. Marta Paturlanne details anatomical lesions and suggests causes ranging from toxic agents to 'red-muzzled mice' and foxes, while dismissing human involvement and radiation.
• July 12, 2002 - Semanario Colon: Details a mutilated cow found in Colon, blaming 'shy red-muzzled mice' according to a government report, while popular tradition suggests Chupacabras or little green men.
• July 13, 2002 - Paralelo 32: Describes 'strange lights' seen in Entre Rios Province, including a powerful light that caused police vehicles' engines to stall and lights to go out.
• July 13, 2002 - Diario El Cronista: Reports strange lights changing colors and landing on the edge of the lagoon in Chascomus, observed by local residents.
• July 14, 2002 - C.O.R. Group Investigation: Details a flying entity sighting in Adelia Maria, Cordoba, where witnesses Pedro and Estela Moine described a 'humanoid' creature that appeared to be floating.
• July 14, 2002 - Salliquelo On Line: Reports a new animal mutilation case in Salliquelo, where a calf was found dead and mutilated, with the phenomenon continuing across the country.
• July 14, 2002 - El Argentino: Describes dead sheep found with head mutilations at Salto, Uruguay, missing ears, eyes, and tongue.
• July 16, 2002 - El Diario de La Pampa: A young woman fainted after allegedly encountering a 'green dwarf' on a street in Villa Elisa.
• July 16, 2002 - Diario La Manana: Residents and police in Gobernador Ugarte claim to have seen a powerful white light suspended in space over an abandoned house.
• July 17, 2002 - La Voz de Bragado: Reports a mutilated calf found in Bragado, with the animal having died naturally two days prior.
• July 17, 2002 - www.vivechacabuco.com: Reports two sightings of strange lights in Chacabuco, including a powerful light that caused a car engine to stall.

Sasquatch in Squamish? People claim to have seen mythic beast

This article from the National Post (November 14, 2002) discusses recent Sasquatch sightings in Vancouver Island and Squamish, Canada. John Kirk, president of the British Columbia Cryptozooloogy Club, expresses encouragement from these reports, hoping for hair or blood samples for DNA testing. The article mentions sightings of large, orange-eyed creatures and a possible family group of Sasquatch. It also references historical accounts and the lack of concrete evidence despite numerous expeditions.

Ghosts, monsters, unexplained phenomena haunt Arkansas

Published in the Log Cabin Democrat (October 29, 2002), this article explores various scary stories and legends in Arkansas. It mentions the 'Fouke monster,' ghost sightings at the Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, hauntings in the E.C. 'Took' Gathings federal building and Craighead County courthouse in Jonesboro, and a haunted building in St. Francis County. The article also touches on the 'lemurs' at Little Rock's zoo, whose large eyes give them a haunting appearance.

Big party for Bigfoot

This Associated Press article from World, Tulsa, OK (September 22, 2002) covers the fourth annual East Coast Bigfoot Conference and Expo. Believers gathered to exchange stories and examine items related to Bigfoot. Eric Altman, director of the Pennsylvania Bigfoot Society, believes too much evidence exists for the creature not to be real, despite not having seen one himself. Christine Vinkler shares her own sighting experience. Skeptics like Benjamin Radford and Barbara Mikkelson are also mentioned, highlighting the ongoing debate and the human desire to believe in the fantastic.

The search by a Dallas-based group for an East Texas swamp thing makes Sasquatch hunters' hearts sing

This Star-Telegram article (October 30, 2002) follows the search for Bigfoot by the Dallas-based Texas Bigfoot Research Center. The group, including John and Chris Neal, waits in the woods along the South Sulphur River, hoping to capture photographic proof. The article discusses the belief in a Southern Bigfoot, its characteristics, and the challenges of finding evidence. It mentions the history of sightings in Fouke, Arkansas, and the inspiration for the research center. The article also touches on the scientific skepticism surrounding Bigfoot and the psychological needs that drive believers.

Mysterious boom heard across Volusia

This News Journal article (November 1, 2002) reports on a loud boom heard across Volusia County, Florida. Initial theories included a space shuttle landing or an explosion, but it was eventually attributed to military fighter jets passing over the area en route to a flight show.

Radio talk show's Bell to hang up headphones

This Deseret News article (October 26, 2002) announces the retirement of radio talk show host Art Bell, known for his discussions on UFO sightings and conspiracy theories, due to ongoing back problems. George Noory will replace him as host.

The fur flies over big cat sightings

An article from the Sandwell Express & Star (September 9, 2002) discusses the ongoing debate about big cat sightings in the British countryside. It mentions reports of pumas, panthers, and lynxes, and the lack of solid photographic evidence. The article highlights the work of two rival research organizations, The Exotic Animals Register and the British Big Cat Society, and notes the increase in reported sightings.

Alaskan Bird Mystery

This report from the Sun (October 19, 2002) details sightings of a giant winged creature in southwestern Alaska, resembling something from 'Jurassic Park.' A pilot estimated its wingspan to be 4.25 meters. State biologists believe it may be a large raptor, possibly a Steller's sea eagle, but are skeptical about the reported size.

The biologist believes

This article from The Province (October 31, 2002) profiles wildlife biologist John Bindernagel, who studies Sasquatch. Bindernagel believes the evidence for Sasquatch is strong enough for scientific study, despite ridicule from peers. He has dedicated 27 years to his research, focusing on areas with high sighting concentrations. His most significant discovery to date is a set of large ape-like pug marks found in mud near Lake Helen Mackenzie.

Every culture has its mysterious monsters

This sidebar discusses the human fascination with tales of strange and elusive animals, such as Sasquatch and the Loch Ness Monster. It suggests that these creatures fulfill a human need for belief and a connection to wilderness. The article also acknowledges that some believers are considered eccentric.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, and reports of cryptids and mysterious creatures. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, presenting witness testimonies, and acknowledging the ongoing research and debate surrounding them, while also including skeptical viewpoints and scientific investigations. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the paranormal and the unexplained, providing a platform for sharing diverse accounts and theories.