UFO Newsclipping Service - 2004 04 - no 417

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated April 2004 (Issue 417), is a compilation of articles from various publications, edited by Lucius Farish. The main cover headline, "Aliens exist, say researchers, abducted audience members," sets the tone for a collection of stories exploring UFO sightings, alien encounters, and related research.

Key Articles and Features

Aliens Exist, Say Researchers, Abducted Audience Members (Arizona Daily Wildcat, Feb. 24, 2004)

This article reports on a lecture at the University Medical Center featuring Dr. Lynne Kitei, a cardiologist from Phoenix, who shared her experiences with UFO sightings, including the 'Phoenix Lights' phenomenon. Kitei recounted seeing three amber orbs in 1995 and described a mass sighting in 1997 involving up to 10,000 witnesses. The event also featured Dr. John Mack, a Harvard professor of psychiatry, who researches alien abductions. Mack presented his documentary 'Touched,' which chronicles his work with abductees, emphasizing the human drama and psychological impact of these experiences. A self-proclaimed abductee shared a positive and exciting experience. The article touches upon the skepticism surrounding these claims, contrasting it with the belief of many in the audience.

Colo. Researcher Felt Truth Out There in Hunt for UFOs (POST, Denver, CO, March 22, 2004)

This piece profiles the late Roy P. Craig, a Colorado researcher who dedicated his life to investigating UFOs. Craig was the chief field investigator for 'The Colorado Project,' a federally funded scientific study led by physicist Edward Condon in the late 1960s. Despite the project's findings not being scientifically backed, Craig remained open-minded and later wrote a book, "UFOs: An Insider's View of the Official Quest for Evidence." The article mentions his playful jingle about UFOs and his donation of evidence to Texas A&M University.

Ike and the Alien Ambassadors (POST, Washington, DC, Feb. 19, 2004)

This article delves into the mystery surrounding President Dwight D. Eisenhower's alleged secret trip to Edwards Air Force Base on February 20, 1954, to meet extraterrestrials. Michael Salla, a former American University professor, promotes the theory that Ike met with 'Nordic' aliens who offered to share technology in exchange for the elimination of nuclear weapons. Salla also discusses a later alleged deal with 'Greys' involving cattle and human abductions. The article contrasts this with the theory that Eisenhower visited a dentist, supported by dental historian James M. Mixson and archivist Jim Leyerzapf from the Eisenhower Library, who found no evidence of an alien encounter in the archives.

Alien Lovers: Documentary Explores Human Side of Meetings from Beyond (BOHEMIAN, Santa Rosa, CA, Feb. 12, 2004)

This review discusses filmmaker Laurel Chiten's documentary 'Touched,' which explores the experiences of individuals who claim to have been abducted by aliens. The film focuses on Karin, who believes she had alien children, and Peter, who claims to have been used for alien half-breed production. Dr. John E. Mack, a Harvard psychiatrist, is featured for his research into these claims, which were initially met with skepticism and led to a faculty investigation that ultimately cleared him. The article highlights the human drama and psychological aspects of these alleged encounters, with Chiten aiming to portray the experiences ambivalently.

Roswell Outer Limits for UFO Fans (OBSERVER, Charlotte, NC, March 14, 2004)

This piece examines how the 1947 Roswell incident has transformed the town of Roswell, New Mexico, into a hub for UFO tourism. Ruth Ann Speth discusses the annual UFO Festival, which includes parades, costume competitions, and booths selling alien-themed merchandise. The UFO connection is described as extremely significant for tourism. The article also touches on the skepticism of locals, with many wanting to see proof before believing, and mentions the town's adaptation with themed restaurants and shops.

Book on UFOs Shows Misplaced Energy (EAST OREGONIAN, Pendleton, OR, Feb. 22, 2004)

This review discusses Roy Timm's book "Saucers, ETs, Abductions and More," which promotes his beliefs about UFOs and extraterrestrial beings. The reviewer finds the book's content speculative and lacking documentation, particularly regarding alien abductions. While critiquing the UFO-related aspects, the review praises Timm's vignettes of life in Eastern Oregon, suggesting that his energy might have been better spent on documenting local life rather than UFO theories.

16th Annual UFO Conference (FLASHLIGHT VISITOR'S GUIDE, Eureka Springs, AR, April 2004)

This article previews the 16th Annual Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, highlighting speakers like Timothy Good, Linda Moulton Howe, and Wendelle Stevens. Topics include alleged contact with extraterrestrials, analysis of UFO footage, and the Roswell crash. The conference aims to bring together researchers and enthusiasts to discuss UFO phenomena, with tickets available in advance or at the door.

A UFO Tale: Police Call Tales of UFO Sightings a Hoax (REGISTER, Whitewater, WI, Nov. 20, 2003)

This article reports on a flyer circulating in Whitewater, Wisconsin, claiming sightings of a mysterious green and blue pulsating light behind the football stadium. Police Chief Jim Coan, however, dismisses the claims as likely a hoax or a misidentification of a solar flare, stating that the police department received no calls about such an event.

'Mysterious' Vehicles Identified? (BURNETT CO. SENTINEL, Grantsburg, WI, Jan. 14, 2004)

This brief report mentions that unusual, 'military-type' vehicles were observed in Crex Meadows, Wisconsin, last fall. State employees at Crex Meadows confirmed that some of these vehicles run on tracks and look different from typical fire fighting equipment, but could not provide further details.

Imaginations Soar At UFO Conference (MORNING NEWS, Springdale, AR, April 9, 2004)

This article previews the 2004 Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, focusing on speaker Ted Phillips and his investigation into the 'Tatra Cave' case. Phillips discusses finding artifacts and evidence of advanced technology in Slovakia. The article also mentions other speakers and topics, including alleged reptilian beings, UFO landings, and the 'Joplin spook light.' The conference is presented as a gathering for those interested in UFO evidence and theories.

Abductees Share Stories (CIBOLA CO. BEACON, Grants, NM, March 31, 2004)

This article details an alien abduction night held in Grants, New Mexico, featuring discussions about 'Zeta Articuli' star travelers. Robert Allen and Gil Riggs shared their experiences of abduction and encounters with aliens, discussing their beliefs about alien missions, human DNA, and the potential for spiritual change. The article notes the fear of ridicule associated with discussing such topics openly and mentions alleged attempts by aliens to impregnate human women.

UFO Strikes Plane (PETIT JEAN COUNTRY HEADLIGHT, Morrilton, AR, March 31, 2004)

This report describes an incident where a Cessna 421 aircraft, piloted by Ken Pearson, was struck by an 'Unidentified Falling Object' over Texas. The object, described as a yellowish-gray cube, shattered the left windscreen but did not penetrate it. Pearson reduced speed and landed safely, but the origin of the object remains unknown.

Skepticism Set to Scupper Any Chance of Union-Led UFO Research (EUROPEAN VOICE, Brussels, Belgium, March 18, 2004)

This article discusses a proposal by MEP Sebastiano Musumeci to create a European Union body for the study of unexplained atmospheric phenomena (UFOs). It highlights past attempts, like the 1991 resolution proposed by Elio Di Rupo, which faced significant ridicule, particularly from the UK media. The article features the views of Timothy Good and Nick Pope, who express skepticism about the likelihood of EU-led research due to fear of mockery and the lack of concrete evidence, despite acknowledging that some phenomena defy conventional explanation.

UFO Sightings Across Europe

This section provides a chronological list of UFO sightings across Europe from 1942 to 1993, including 'Foo Fighters' reported by Allied pilots, 'ghost rockets' over Scandinavia, sightings over England, a landed UFO in Rendlesham Forest, UK, and sightings in France and the Netherlands.

Out There (COURIER, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, March 14, 2004)

This article explores UFO sightings in Vancouver, Canada, featuring accounts from Diana Luca and Mark Murphy, who captured a UFO on video. It highlights the work of UFO*BC, an organization that believes Earth has been visited by alien ships, with vice president Graham Conway and engineer Martin Jasek sharing their experiences and views. The article also touches on the skepticism of Lee Moller from the B.C. Society for Skeptical Enquiry, who suggests rational explanations for sightings, and mentions the high number of UFO reports in Vancouver.

Did UFO Scupper Beagle 2 Mission to the Red Planet? (PRESS & JOURNAL, Aberdeen, Scotland, March 9, 2004)

This article discusses the potential reasons for the failure of the Beagle 2 Mars lander mission. Scientists are examining an image showing an unidentified object near the lander, as well as 'string of pearls' formations on the Martian surface. Other theories include the lander crashing due to a less dense atmosphere than expected, a possibility supported by NASA's experience with the Spirit rover.

Pilot of PM's Plane Reports Close Encounter with UFO (SUN, Vancouver, B.C., Canada, March 29, 2004)

This report details an incident where the pilot of Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin's plane observed a luminous object streaking through the night sky over Alberta. The object was described as a 'very bright light falling' with smoke trailing. While some speculate about extraterrestrial contact, Ufology Research of Manitoba suggests it was likely a chunk of a comet or asteroid burning up in the atmosphere.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent interest in UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. There is a clear division between those who actively research and believe in UFO phenomena, often citing personal experiences and alleged evidence, and those who remain skeptical, seeking rational explanations or dismissing claims as hoaxes. The articles showcase a range of perspectives, from scientific investigations and academic research to personal testimonies and media coverage of conferences and events. The editorial stance, as reflected in the compilation of these diverse articles, appears to be one of presenting the ongoing discourse surrounding UFOs, allowing readers to engage with various viewpoints without necessarily endorsing any single one. The inclusion of both academic and popular media sources suggests an aim to capture the breadth of public and professional interest in the subject.

This issue of the magazine, dated February 9, 2004, with the headline "Have aliens got their eyes on Portsmouth?", delves into various UFO and unexplained phenomena reports from different parts of the world. The publication features news from the UK, Canada, the US, and Argentina, covering sightings, investigations, and related cultural phenomena.

UFO Sightings in Portsmouth

The lead story by Suzy Austin highlights Anthony Woods, a UFO enthusiast from Portsmouth, who claims to have captured extensive camcorder footage of 200 alleged UFO sightings. His film, described as 'the greatest daylight UFO footage ever seen', shows strange orbs and lights in the sky. Experts, including Professor Roger Green of Warwick University, have ruled out digital trickery, and UFO Magazine has supported Mr. Woods in releasing a DVD of his footage. The DVD is set to premiere at the International UFO Congress in Nevada.

Strange Lights in Sky Reported in Prince George, Canada

Bernice Trick reports on a local resident, Lisa Hallam, who has witnessed fast-moving balls of fire in the sky above Prince George on three separate occasions. Hallam described the intensely red object as about four times the size of the brightest star, moving erratically and sometimes hovering. She also noted unusual electronic disturbances in her home during the sightings. Another resident, Cheryll Hallam, also witnessed the light. Gil Self from the Prince George Astronomical Society stated there have been no official reports of such lights, but offered potential explanations like refracted light or electrical phenomena. UFO expert Brian Vike expressed interest in the sightings and offered a toll-free number for reporting.

Houston Resident Researches Sky Sightings

Paul Strickland reports on Brian Vike, a Houston, BC resident who researches celestial phenomena. Vike operates HBCC UFO Research and notes a dramatic increase in reports of unexplained night-sky phenomena since 2002. He mentions several sightings in the Prince George area, including red balls of light that moved suddenly and objects that split in two. Vike encourages local residents to report unusual sightings to his toll-free line.

Rendlesham Forest UFO Incident on Film

Andrew Clarke writes about Red Rose Chain, an Ipswich-based film and theatre company, developing a full-length feature film titled "Eastgate" based on the alleged UFO encounter at RAF Woodbridge near Rendlesham Forest in December 1980. The film, adapted from an open-air theatre piece, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Landmark East competition, which could provide development funding. Producer David Newborn expressed confidence in making the leap from short films to a feature and hopes the film will spark conversations about UFOs for years to come.

Did UFO Land in Rainhill?

Andrew Kilmurray investigates a mystery surrounding an apparent UFO sighting above a power station 25 years ago. Robert Bennett, an amateur radio operator, claims that from conversations he overheard between police officers, the UFO actually landed in a farmer's field in Rainhill. The sighting, logged in a X-Files style police database by Detective Constable Gary Heseltine, is classified as having "Defence Significance." Bennett, who was 46 at the time, assisted police by relaying messages between officers and radio amateurs tracking the craft.

Mystery of Two 'UFO' Sightings in Bolton

Teri Jones reports on two UFO sightings above Rivington, near Bolton, that have concerned experts. The Bolton UFO Society is seeking information from the public. One sighting involved an object described as two flying circles of light, one inside the other, rotating. Another report described a similar sight. Phil Catterall, chair of the society, noted the unusual nature of these sightings.

Mystery Surrounds UFO Sighting in Blacon

David Holmes reports on a sighting by Steve Culshaw and his partner Erika in Blacon, Chester. They described a black triangle with white lights in each corner and a red light in the middle, making a loud drone-like noise. The object was seen hovering and then darting off towards Queensferry. UFO experts speculate it could be an experimental military aircraft. Steve Culshaw, who served in the Army, stated the shape was totally different from any aircraft he had seen. An air traffic controller at Hawarden Airfield dismissed the possibility of it being related to them, as the airfield was closed. The Ministry of Defence stated it was unlikely to be a military aircraft at that time.

Flash in Sky Sparks UFO Theory in Worcester

John Reynolds, a pensioner in St. John's, Worcester, reported a gigantic flash across the sky that caused his radio to lose all its channels. He initially thought it was a bomb due to its vividness. His neighbor also experienced power outages. Police had not received similar reports, and a local weatherman confirmed there was no thunder or lightning. Michael Soper of Contact International could not identify the cause.

Strange Sightings Above City Skyline in Plymouth

Tony Richardson reports on numerous UFO sightings in Plymouth following the publication of striking photographs taken by amateur photographer John Nicholls. People reported seeing unexplained lights and flying objects, some from years ago and others from the current week. Student Paul Burt described a light that changed color and erupted into different colors. Postman Robert Buckham reported a bright white light with a tail travelling fast. UFO expert Dr. David Clarke expressed skepticism, suggesting digital cameras can create strange images and that the lack of a simultaneous sighting by the photographer raises suspicion.

UFO Magazine Folds After Editor's Death

Dave Clarke reports that the Yorkshire-based UFO Magazine is closing after the death of its editor, Graham Birdsall, a world authority on UFOs. Birdsall, who died at 49, co-founded the magazine in the early 1980s, which became the world's best-selling UFO publication. His widow, Christine, announced the latest issue would be the last.

Translations: Chupacabras and Strange Formations

This section includes translated articles from South American media. One report from Costa Rica details Chupacabras attacks on hens, leaving them bled dry with twin puncture marks. Another from Nuevo Leon, Mexico, describes strange crop formations found in fields near Cadereyta. A theological perspective from Vicente Chafer suggests that extraterrestrial life is compatible with God, but dismisses most UFO sightings as potentially demonic.

UFO Over the River Plate and Buenos Aires

Reports from Argentina describe an unidentified flying object that "shone and swirled" over the River Plate and another luminous object that changed colors incessantly over the Argentinean capital. The Argentinean Air Force received multiple calls but could not officially confirm the sightings.

Bigfoot! (Little Evidence)

Mike Lafferty covers the phenomenon of Bigfoot, detailing a convention in Newcomerstown, Ohio, hosted by Don Keating, a true believer. Keating recounts a personal encounter with a Bigfoot in 1985. The article notes that while the legend is fueled by thousands of eyewitness stories and tabloid articles, it is largely disdained by science. Statewide sightings between January 1999 and January 2004 are mentioned.

Bigfoot Sightings in North Dakota

Eloise Ogden reports on recent Bigfoot sightings on the Fort Berthold Reservation in North Dakota. Paul Danks, administrator of the Natural Resources Department, has a map marking these sites. Residents reported seeing a large creature pushing through trees. Phyllis Lincoln recalls seeing a tall, grayish creature with long hair about 30 years ago near Twin Buttes. The article also mentions historical sightings in the area and in South Dakota.

Team Makes Strides in Search for Bigfoot

Greg Bolt writes about J. Richard Greenwell, a cryptozooloist who has been conducting research in the Siskiyou Wilderness in Oregon. Over four summers, his team has documented numerous events, including rock throwing, vegetation smashing, camp visitations, and vocalizations, which they categorize as "unverified primate species" activity. While not claiming definitive proof of Bigfoot, Greenwell states that the data support the hypothesis that something is out there.

Allen Gives New Boost to Search for Aliens

Sandi Doughton reports that Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen is donating $13.5 million to help build a radio telescope for the search for intelligent life in the universe. The Allen Telescope Array will scan up to a million stars. The funding is seen as a significant boost to the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program, which previously faced funding cuts.

Strange Creature Sighted... Maybe

Eddie Glenn reports on "strange sightings" in Cherokee County, Oklahoma. A photograph taken in Pumpkin Hollow is presented, which some believe shows Bigfoot. The article references a 1990 sighting on Eldon Hill and discusses the terrain's suitability for such creatures. It also mentions the possibility of bears being mistaken for Bigfoot.

Mythtaken Identity: On the Trail of Sasquatch

Eric Lucas shares his experience visiting the Willow Creek-China Flat Museum, a center for Sasquatch lore. He recounts a personal encounter with a large, black creature in the California wilderness, which he believes was Sasquatch. The article touches on the controversy surrounding the Patterson film and Ray Wallace's family's claims about its authenticity. Lucas emphasizes the allure of mystery in nature that Bigfoot represents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings and the Bigfoot legend. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various accounts and expert opinions without necessarily endorsing them as definitive proof. There's a clear interest in documenting eyewitness testimonies and the ongoing research in these fields, from scientific endeavors like the Allen Telescope Array to more anecdotal reports from individuals. The inclusion of translated articles from South America broadens the scope of reported mysteries, while the Bigfoot coverage highlights the cultural impact and ongoing debate surrounding the creature. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the fringes of science and the unexplained, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and ongoing investigations.