UFO Newsclipping Service - 2004 07 - no 420

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated July 2004, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO sightings and phenomena from various sources. The cover headline, "UFOs haven't gone away," sets the tone for a publication that explores the enduring mystery and public interest in unidentified flying objects.

Editorial/Opinion: UFOs haven't gone away

This editorial reflects on the 57th anniversary of the Kenneth Arnold sighting in June 1947, which brought public awareness to UFOs. It highlights that many sightings since then remain unexplained, including a local sighting by Bruce Stevenson in 1948. The article notes that despite past ridicule, public awareness is rising due to coverage from channels like History, Learning, and Discovery, and the internet. It acknowledges that some sightings are hoaxes or misidentifications but emphasizes the credibility of multi-witness reports. Pete Hartinger, director of the Roundtown UFO Society, estimates that only one in ten UFO sightings are reported, a figure he considers conservative in the internet age. He recommends Peter Davenport's website (www.ufo-center.com) and mentions the Socorro, N.M. landing trace case of April 1964 as outstanding. Hartinger quotes a lawyer friend who states the burden of proof has shifted to skeptics. He encourages open-minded research and suggests a simple test to gauge people's reactions to the UFO phenomenon. Recent events mentioned include a UFO spotted by the Mars Rover, sightings over Iran reported by CNN, and UFOs detected by Mexican Air Force planes. Hartinger expresses a desire for more scientists to get involved and notes that many professionals, including former astronauts and pilots, are part of MUFON. He invites questions and offers contact information for the Roundtown UFO Society.

Lincoln Times-News: Reagan had UFO encounters

This clipping reports on additional witnesses to UFO sightings over Lincolnton, NC. It also brings up President Ronald Reagan's reported UFO encounters, including one with his wife Nancy while driving down the California coast in 1974, and another while flying above Bakersfield. Reagan reportedly ordered his pilot to follow a large white UFO, which flew near their plane before departing rapidly. The article notes Reagan's speeches about the "Alien Threat" in his final years, referencing talks before the National Press Club, the UN General Assembly, and Russian leader Gorbachev.

Deseret Morning News: Unidentified photographed object sparks wonder

This article details a photograph taken by Tommy Woodard, photo librarian for the Utah Film Commission, in Provo Canyon, Utah. The image captured a purplish object hovering above trees, which Woodard believes is a flying saucer. Initial reports from the National UFO Reporting Center suggesting it was a bird have been abandoned, and Hill Air Force Base stated no aircraft were in the area at the time. Woodard recounts a childhood sighting of gray, blurry spheres. The incident has reignited his interest in UFOs and sparked wonder among others.

Queen City News: British UFO researcher interviews local author

This article features an interview between British UFO researcher Timothy Good and Helena, Montana author Leo Dworshak about his book, "UFOs Are With Us - Take My Word." Good, described as a leading authority on UFOs, visited Dworshak to discuss his experiences. The article contrasts Good's academic background with Dworshak's farm upbringing and military service. Good has investigated over 50 cases of alleged alien contact and has collected extensive declassified government documents. He cites a 1948 U.S. Air Force document acknowledging unexplained "flying saucers." Dworshak recounts his own encounter in 1932 with a spacecraft that landed near his North Dakota farm, where he and his brother entered the silent craft. Good found Dworshak's account compelling and noted that aliens are not that different from humans, only more intelligent, and that they "pick your brain before you talk."

Star, Kansas City, MO: TRUE UFO BELIEVER HOPES YOU, TOO, WILL SEE THE LIGHT

This article profiles Bob White, who operates the Museum of the Unexplained in Reeds Spring, Missouri, featuring an artifact he claims was retrieved from a UFO in 1985. White, a former comedian and singer, was initially a skeptic but his life changed after the encounter. The artifact, described as a teardrop-shaped metallic object weighing less than 2 pounds, has undergone testing. The Nevada-based National Institute for Discovery Science found no extraterrestrial evidence, while a California laboratory reported strontium isotope levels similar to Martian meteorites. Skeptics suggest the object could be space debris or a natural phenomenon. White has passed polygraph tests regarding the encounter and artifact. The museum struggles financially, but White remains passionate about proving his story.

Independent Record, Helena, MT: Author researches stories of alien encounters

This article continues the coverage of Timothy Good's visit to Helena to interview Leo Dworshak. It highlights the contrast between Good's academic background and Dworshak's life experiences. Good, a leading UFO authority, considers Dworshak's contact story one of the most compelling he has investigated. The article touches upon Good's research into declassified documents and his belief that aliens have taken up planetary residence in the United States. Dworshak's book, "UFOs Are With Us - Take My Word," has gained a cult following. The article also mentions Good's own unusual encounter in New York City in 1967, where he communicated telepathically with a resident alien. Dworshak's next book will explore how his experiences have altered his views on religion and culture.

Daily Herald, Provo, UT: Spanish Fork field takes on uncommon characteristic

This brief report describes a mysterious crop circle that appeared in a wheat field in Spanish Fork, Utah. The roughly 100-foot-diameter circle consists of four circles with a large center circle and three smaller outer circles. Residents believe it must have appeared on Monday as it was not visible on Sunday. The Utah County Sheriff's Office is investigating. The owner of the field, Paul A. Prior, was not pleased with the damage to his crops, estimating it at $300.

Daily Nonpareil, Council Bluffs, IA: MYSTERY AT BIG LAKE

This special report investigates the "Big Lake Incident" that occurred on December 17, 1977, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Witnesses Kenny, Carol, and Randy Drake saw a bright red object fall from the sky and land near Big Lake, resulting in a pool of molten metal. Investigations by the Omaha Sun, Eppley Airfield, and Offutt Air Force Base could not explain the phenomenon. Metallurgical analysis of samples suggested terrestrial origin, possibly high-carbon steel. However, Jacques F. Vallee speculated it could be part of a liquid metal electrical system for a flying object. The article explores the possibility of a hoax, but concludes that such a scenario would have been extremely complex and difficult to execute.

Statesman Journal, Salem, OR: UFO Festival has great parade and help for abductees

This article previews the 5th Annual UFO Festival in McMinnville, Oregon, running from Thursday through Sunday. The event includes a dinner with alien abduction authority Budd Hopkins, a vendor fair, a UFO Parade, and an Alien Costume Ball. The company Applied Physics Technologies has won the parade's "Best Alien Float" award for two consecutive years. The festival aims to provide fun and support for UFO enthusiasts and abductees, with Hopkins offering talks on his abduction research and coping strategies.

Foreign News: Fields could hold the key to alien life

This clipping discusses the appearance of crop circles in Cheshire, England, and the efforts of local paranormal and UFO researchers to investigate them. Eric Morris, a UFOlogist, believes that while some formations might be caused by whirlwinds, others suggest a "higher intelligence." He notes that the focus has historically been on the South West of England, but reports from Cheshire are increasing. Morris has featured in a BBC4 documentary and seeks open-minded individuals to contribute to research.

Foreign News: Warning from aliens must be heeded

This letter to the editor expresses concern about environmental degradation. The author, Robert Stephenson, claims to have had an encounter with aliens who warned humanity about destroying the Earth, particularly regarding pollution and oxygen depletion. He predicts that within 50 years, there will be no more oxygen left for future generations if current trends continue.

News & Star, Carlisle, England: Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it an alien life form? No, sadly for UFO boffin Sharon, it's just a stress-relief toy from the States

This article reports on a "mysterious object" found by Sharon Larkin in West Cumbria, which was initially thought to be extraterrestrial. However, it was identified as a "Magnetoid," a US stress reliever and desktop plaything. Larkin, an administration director for a UFO research group, expressed relief that the mystery was solved.

Examiner, Douglas, Isle of Man: Links with mysterious orange UFO seen in Cumbria

This article discusses reports of an orange-colored UFO seen over Cumbria, with links to the Isle of Man. Witnesses have described the object resembling an orange street lamp. Members of the Whitehaven Golf Club and other individuals have reported sightings. Premier UK ufologist Russ Kellett is seeking further information on this phenomenon.

Irish Daily Star, Dublin, Ireland: UFO? THE TRUTH IS UP THERE

This article previews the first Irish International UFO Conference to be held in Galway. Betty Meyler, described as the "Agent Scully" of County Roscommon, is the driving force behind the event. Meyler, who has had multiple UFO sightings, became interested after hearing about a suspected UFO crash. The conference will feature speakers on UFOs and related phenomena, attracting delegates from around the world.

Express & Star, Wolverhampton, England: UFO film on Chase sightings

A documentary titled "Cannock Chase UFO Hot Spot UK," covering sightings of unidentified flying objects above Cannock Chase, is to be shown in Stourbridge. The film includes interviews with MoD officials and explores the area's reputation as a UFO hotspot, with a retired US Naval Intelligence Officer suggesting it as a location for a crashed UFO.

News, Portsmouth, England: Investigator set to probe suspected UFO activity

UFO enthusiasts are investigating unexplained objects sighted over Portsmouth. John Field reported seeing a long, thin, pencil-like object drift across the sky, followed by two small planes. The police have no record of the sightings, and the navy reported no flights at that time. Southern Paranormal Investigations Group, led by Bob Schindler, is looking into the claims.

Evening News, Bolton, England: Rivington 'magnet for flying saucers'

This article identifies Rivington moors as a UFO hotspot in Britain, ranking second only to Fleetwood in the North-west for sightings. The area has a history of unexplained sightings, including alleged abductions. Ex-MOD UFO expert Nick Pope included Rivington in a list of top saucer spotting venues.

Observer, Stratford-upon-Avon, England: Was UFO just Venus?

Reports of a mysterious pink light spotted in the skies near Stratford-upon-Avon have been attributed by astronomy experts to the planet Venus. Two students and members of the Stratford Astronomical Society reported seeing the light, which appeared to hover at street-lamp level. The Stratford Astronomical Society chairman suggested that a hazy skyline could make Venus appear pink or orange.

Bexleyheath & Welling Times, Dartford, England: TOWN IS UFO HOTSPOT

Bexleyheath has been identified by UFO experts as the eighth most likely place in the UK to see UFOs, according to science fiction buff Nick Pope. The article mentions Conor Sherwood, who claims to have seen a white triangle-shaped UFO near his home in 2002. Pope compiled a list of UFO hotspots, noting that reporting is often under-reported due to fear of ridicule.

Pacific Flyer, San Diego, CA: Air Force Pilots Take Videos

This article reports that Mexican Air Force pilots have videotaped images of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs). The tape, taken on March 5, shows 11 bright, rapidly moving objects. The Mexican Defense Secretary provided the video to Jaime Maussan, a UFO enthusiast, who believes it proves UFOs exist. Scientists suggested the lights could be atmospheric electrical flashes or emissions from oil platforms. Maussan is a prominent UFO researcher in Mexico.

Free Press, Denbighshire, England: Things that go bump in the night - UFOs on the Berwyns?

This article revisits the unexplained incident in the Berwyn Mountains, Wales, on January 23, 1974, which caused an earthquake. Two theories exist: a meteorite impact or an alien craft. Tracey Williams of the paranormal group UPIA suggests a meteorite impact but notes the lack of a large crater. The article also mentions the UFO Casebook's theory of a prototype experimental craft or UFO, and Andy Roberts' study suggesting bolide meteors and poachers' lamps as possible explanations.

Echo, Loughborough, England: Why did the national media ignore groundbreaking story?

This letter to the editor praises the Echo for its objective reporting of Robert Stephenson's claims of being abducted by aliens. The writer, a retired BBC journalist, expresses surprise that the national media ignored such a potentially groundbreaking story, contrasting it with their focus on celebrity gossip and sports. The writer looks forward to future reports on such experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent nature of UFO sightings and the ongoing mystery surrounding them. There's a strong emphasis on witness testimony, the challenges of research (including hoaxes and skepticism), and the increasing public awareness of the phenomenon. Several articles highlight specific historical and recent sightings, while others focus on the work of researchers and organizations dedicated to UFO investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts while acknowledging the need for critical analysis and further research. There's a clear indication that the subject is taken seriously by the publications featured, even when dealing with potentially controversial or unverified claims.

This issue of the Guardian, dated April 15, 2004, focuses on unexplained phenomena, with a prominent cover story about the possibility of alien presence and abduction.

Is there anyone out there?

The lead article by Doreen Friend discusses a report commissioned by Grolsch for its 'The Fish Can Sing' campaign, which identifies Walthamstow as a hotspot for alien abductions, ranking it fifth nationally behind Bonybridge, Scotland. Researcher Liz McGrath compiled a report titled 'How To Be Abducted by Aliens,' noting that while Walthamstow is popular for sightings, there are no conclusive nationwide statistics. A Redbridge Council spokesman mentioned an unexplained sighting of a large object in Valentines Park a few summers ago, and a scare 12 years prior involving glowing golf balls on Woodford Golf Course, later attributed to radon gas tests. The spokesman stated there have been no confirmed UFO sightings or alien abductions in the borough.

UFO mystery as lights in sky caught on film

This article by Huw Borland reports on amateur alien enthusiasts capturing video footage of what they believe to be a spaceship over Sussex. Brian Barnes of Bevendean, Brighton, alerted police and the coastguard after spotting a bright sphere with an orbiting light. Neighbours filmed the object, which remained stationary for two hours. Sir Patrick Moore, an astronomy expert, suggested the sightings could be hot air balloons or Venus, while a Solent Coastguard spokesman had no record of any UFO sightings. The article also mentions a Sussex Police helicopter chasing a UFO in August 2000, with Sergeant John Tickner and paramedic Sean Mitchell describing a glowing object that disappeared.

Expert begins research into 'speeding UFO'

This piece by Katherine Davison from the Western Gazette details how Kath Simpson of Thornford, near Sherborne, enlisted UFO expert David Kingston after seeing a fast-moving object in the night sky. Simpson described the object as moving very fast, then making a quick flick to the right before disappearing. She contacted RNAS Yeovilton, who had no record of aircraft in the area. Kingston plans to check with military and civilian air traffic control and the coastguard.

I saw the UFO too

This letter to the editor from Ted Whale of Castle Close, Henley, describes seeing a very bright light in the sky with smaller lights on either side, at an estimated altitude of 30-40,000 feet. He observed it for about half an hour before it disappeared, and later saw a similar phenomenon on April 19th, which moved at an incredible speed.

Ilkley Moor: They are aliens. And they came to...

Grant Woodward reports for the Evening Post that a poll indicates one in three Yorkshire people believe in aliens, and one in 12 claims to have seen a UFO. Yorkshire expert Russ Kellet considers the region the 'UFO capital of the UK,' citing historical sightings like the 1974 'Cigar' over Bradford and an alien on Ilkley Moor in 1987. The survey also found that the scariest extraterrestrial for people was the alien from the movie 'Alien,' while the Daleks were considered the least scary.

Translations

This section contains translated articles from Spanish-language newspapers:

INTERVIEW WITH ALIEN PHOTOGRAPHER

German Pereira, a civil engineer from Santiago, Chile, photographed what he describes as a "tiny grey being" in Parque Forestal. He claims it has arms and a head but doesn't know what it is. The photo, taken with a Kodak DX6490 digital camera, has gained international attention. Pereira states it's not a photographic error or a hoax and has kept the original photo on his camera.

SYRIA: Witnesses Report Seeing Alien

Eyewitness accounts from seven workers in Central Syria describe an entity that was red, had a "peasantish" look, and was seen in an olive grove. The creature reportedly sat for a while before climbing a tree and then rushing skyward, leaving a wake of smoky white bubbles.

CHILE: COLLEGE STUDENTS SAW STRANGE RED OBJECT

Three UNIACC students in Temuco, Chile, captured footage of a red object over the Malleco viaduct. The object, described as a scintillating red sphere, moved at moderate speed southward, then disappeared. Malleco is considered a 'UFO transit corridor.'

CHILE: JAPANESE STARTLED BY PARQUE FORESTAL PHOTO

Erick Martinez of CIFAE discusses the international attention the Parque Forestal photo has received, with Japan's Asahi Shimbun publishing it and relating it to the legend of the 'kappa.' Martinez also received a video recording of strange lights in the same location.

Portugal: UFO Photographed in Monte Novo

Four people, including two engineers and two students, photographed a UFO in Monte Novo, Portugal, while conducting a water quality survey. The photo was taken by Eduardo Silva. The Portuguese Air Force reported following a 'spindle-shaped' object.

CHILE: AN IMPRESSIVE UFO CAUSED ALARM IN OVALLE

Hundreds of people in Ovalle, Chile, witnessed a strange circle of lights positioned in the sky. The object was estimated to be at least 100 meters in diameter and blinked and rotated. This sighting is considered one of the most significant in recent times.

CHILE: MORE UFOS OVER PUNTA ARENAS

An unidentified flying object was seen in Punta Arenas, Chile, for five days. Radio Polar's switchboard collapsed due to calls. The Office of Aeronautics stated it was neither an airplane nor a helicopter. Alfredo Vera photographed the object, describing it as a "burning ball, something red, green, blue."

CHILE: HOME VIDEO CAPTURES STRANGE LIGHT IN PENALOLEN

Chile Vision Noticias presented a home video showing an odd light glowing through fog in Penalolen, changing shapes. Ufologist Alberto Urquiza suggested it might be the sun reflecting on glass.

Mexico: Between 150-200 People See UFO in Ticul

Members of CAFE and SIRIO-MAYAB research groups witnessed a phenomenon over Ticul, Mexico, involving a light moving in a zig-zag motion, ascending, and disappearing. A video was taken by Prof. Silvestre Leal Campos.

UFO's: A Compulsory Subject of Conversation

In the Benito Juarez neighborhood of Yucatan, Mexico, residents report seeing strange lights in the sky, which began to appear the night an earthquake occurred. The lights are a popular topic of conversation, with 150-200 people reporting sightings.

Iowa Bigfoot stomps into hoax history

This article by The Des Moines Register reveals that Glen Visser confessed to orchestrating a Bigfoot hoax in Marion County, Iowa, in 1978 to alleviate winter boredom. He created large footprints using snowshoes and staged a scene near a railroad bridge. The hoax attracted significant media attention and sightseers.

THE ABC'S OF ALIEN BIG CATS

This section discusses sightings of large, exotic cats in central Ohio, referred to as 'Alien Big Cats' (ABCs). The article notes that while searches were conducted, no definitive evidence was found, suggesting the possibility of mass hysteria or escaped exotic pets.

HAS NOAH'S ARK BEEN FOUND?

This Daily Mail article explores the possibility of finding Noah's Ark. It discusses a CIA file labeled 'The Ararat Anomaly,' showing a man-made structure on Mount Ararat. An expedition led by Christian businessman Daniel McGivern is planned to investigate. The article also mentions the theory that the Black Sea was formed by a Mediterranean overflow and that the Ark might be at its bottom. It references the Epic of Gilgamesh as an earlier flood narrative.

Big cat returns to the Chase

This article from the Burntwood Post reports on recent sightings of a large, black cat-like animal in the Cannock Chase area of England. Eye-witnesses describe an animal five or six times bigger than a domestic cat. The British Big Cat Society notes a significant increase in such sightings nationwide. The article also briefly mentions other unexplained phenomena in the area, including Bigfoot and UFOs.

Girl who made telephone 'fly' still in prison

This Dispatch article revisits the case of Tina Boyer (formerly Tina Resch), who as a teenager in the 1980s was the subject of debate regarding her alleged telekinetic abilities. Parapsychologist Bill Roll believes she possessed extraordinary mental energy. Boyer is currently serving a life sentence for murder, having been convicted in the beating death of her daughter. Roll maintains her innocence and hopes for future research into her abilities.

Legend of lost civilization of Atlantis still intrigues

This article discusses the ongoing search for the lost civilization of Atlantis. Rainer Kuehne has identified structures in a satellite photograph of a salt marsh in southern Spain as Atlantean temples. The article also touches on other theories, including the Minoan civilization of Crete and the idea that Atlantis was submerged due to rising sea levels. Archaeologist Ken Feder suggests the enduring appeal of Atlantis lies in a desire to believe in a lost Golden Age.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien encounters, and other unexplained phenomena, often presented with a mix of witness accounts, expert opinions, and skeptical analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, acknowledging the public's interest, and presenting various perspectives, from believers to debunkers, without definitively concluding on the nature of these events. There's a clear interest in documenting reported sightings and exploring the cultural impact of these mysteries, as seen in the coverage of Bigfoot, Noah's Ark, and the legend of Atlantis.