UFO Newsclipping Service - 2006 05 - no 442

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE, dated May 2006 (Number 442), focuses on historical and contemporary UFO phenomena, with a prominent feature on the "Great UFO Scare of 1896." The publication is edited and published by Lucius Farish.

The Great UFO Scare of 1896

This article by Phil Reader details the widespread panic and sightings of mysterious "airships" in 1896, predating the Wright brothers' flight. The phenomenon began with sailors in San Francisco reporting glowing spheres and saucer-like machines. By November 17, 1896, sightings reached fever pitch in Sacramento, described as "electric arc lamps propelled by a mysterious force." The "airship" was reportedly seen traveling north to south and was observed to rise and descend to avoid obstacles. The craze continued in San Francisco four days later, with sightings by policemen, firemen, and Mayor Adolph Sutro. An attorney even claimed to know the inventor, describing the vessel as metal, 150 feet long, and capable of carrying 15 people, with the ability to ascend and descend vertically. Despite the barrister's story being proven untrue, the craze grew. On November 26, the object reached the Monterey Bay region, described as a "bright light arcing through the air," which bypassed Hollister and was seen in Salinas and Watsonville. In Santa Cruz, witnesses reported a strange light hovering over the coastline. The article notes that the luridness of observations often correlated with alcohol consumption, with many sightings occurring above saloons. The "airship hysteria" faded in December 1896, with no definitive explanation ever found. The article draws a parallel to the Roswell incident 50 years later.

Explaining the Unknown

This short piece by Gary V. Moretti discusses the human tendency to explain the unknown and the fear of the unknown. It posits that our perception of reality is constructed from concepts like time, motion, and matter, and that truth lies in understanding this paradox. It also raises questions about the Roswell crash documentation and the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors.

Eyes on the Sky: As ninth anniversary nears, Prescott Valley man still looking for answers on Phoenix Lights

This article by Cindy Barks profiles Mike and Nannette Fortson, who have been watching the skies for years, hoping to witness a repeat of the "Phoenix Lights" event from March 13, 1997. The Fortsons describe seeing "three huge, bright white lights angled down and very low to the ground," which they identified as a giant boomerang or V-shaped craft. Mike Fortson has become a notable figure in UFO circles, appearing in documentaries and news stories. The article notes that officials dismissed the lights as military flares, but Fortson maintains two distinct events occurred that night. He aims to focus local attention on the 1997 event. The article also mentions former Phoenix City Councilwoman Frances Barwood, who recalls the overwhelming public response to the lights and the initial reluctance of many to speak publicly for fear of ridicule.

'Outer space' metal crash is a mystery

This brief report from Miami, FL, describes a mysterious incident where a 2-inch by 3-inch, 2-pound piece of scorching metal crashed through a homeowner's roof. The FAA stated the object could not have fallen from a plane, and NASA registered no orbital debris reentering the atmosphere. Experts pondered whether it was a meteorite or "space junk."

Pair's trick has California town seeing UFOs

This article by Lynn Doan reports on Gaylon Murphy and Steve Zingali, who are building and flying remote-controlled saucers in Aliso Viejo, California, as a form of marketing and entertainment. The UFOs, described as glowing disks with flashing lights, have caused reactions ranging from amusement to panic. While some residents have reported these sightings to the sheriff's department, the duo insists they are not extraterrestrial but homemade devices. They have encountered some legal scrutiny but have not been found to be violating any laws.

Author Wonders About Our Heavenly Hosts

This piece by Becca Bacon Martin introduces Paul Von Ward, author of "Gods, Genes, and Consciousness: The Case for Nonhuman Intervention Throughout the Ages." Von Ward theorizes that extraterrestrial beings, referred to as "ABs," are not only the "gods" of various mythologies but also our ancestors who mated with early humans to advance the species. He believes these beings were intimately involved with mankind until their own conflicts led them to leave Earth or become less visible. Von Ward's theories stem from his study of world cultures and his personal experiences.

UFO sightings: Lincolnton man spends years documenting activity

This article by Amanda Millard profiles George Fawcett, a UFO researcher from Lincolnton, NC, who has spent years documenting UFO sightings. Fawcett claims to have only seen one UFO himself in 1951. He has amassed a vast collection of documents, which he has largely donated to the Roswell Museum and Research Center. Fawcett believes the government has covered up UFO existence and has faced ridicule for his work but maintains a sense of humor about it. He has authored books on the subject and is a recognized figure in the UFO community.

Unidentified: What they saw 40 years ago is still a mystery

This detailed article by Scott Tady recounts the 1966 Portage County, Ohio, UFO chase involving deputies Dale Spaur and W.L. "Barney" Neff, along with Conway policeman Frank Panzanella and other law enforcement officers. The event began with Spaur and Neff spotting a large, silver, dome-shaped object hovering over the ground. They pursued the object for over 86 miles, with speeds reaching 103 mph. The chase extended into Pennsylvania, with additional officers joining. The object was described as emitting an intense cone of light. The incident gained national attention, but the Air Force, through Maj. Hector Quintanilla of Project Blue Book, dismissed the sightings as a satellite or planet Venus. The witnesses, including Panzanella, maintained their belief in what they saw. The article details the emotional toll the incident took on Spaur, leading to the breakdown of his marriage and career, and Huston's decision to change his name and move away. It also touches on the skepticism faced by witnesses and the government's alleged cover-up.

UFO researcher brings campaign to Northeast Ohio

This article by Chris Powell reports on UFO researcher Richard Dolan's lecture at Oberlin College. Dolan asserts that UFOs are real and that the federal government has spent trillions of dollars denying their existence, but claims the classification is due to "proprietary issues" related to extraterrestrial technology. He argues that UFOs are the most highly classified subject in the U.S. and that secrecy surrounding them hinders public discussion. Scott Santa and Josh Rzepka, who also claim to have seen UFOs, agree that more public education is needed.

Extraterrestrials may have taught humans

This opinion piece by Dennis J. Dalton suggests that extraterrestrials may have taught humans about science, farming, astronomy, and mathematics, citing ancient texts and the rapid advancement of certain populations. He believes that God and the "sons of God" mentioned in religious texts were extraterrestrial beings.

For UFO believers, things are always looking up

This article by Phil Reisman describes the UFO Roundtable, a group of UFO enthusiasts who meet in Yonkers, NY, to share stories and support each other. The article highlights the caution and resentment believers feel due to public ridicule. It mentions various accounts shared at the meeting, including a sighting of a commercial blimp mistaken for a UFO, and a video of a craft near the World Trade Center. The piece also touches on the "Disclosure Project" and the belief that the government has been covering up UFO existence since 1947.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the historical and contemporary reality of UFO sightings, the persistent nature of these phenomena, and the alleged government cover-ups surrounding them. There is a strong emphasis on witness testimony, particularly from law enforcement and ordinary citizens, and a critique of official explanations that dismiss these accounts. The articles collectively suggest a belief in the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence and its potential influence on human history and technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, challenging skepticism and official narratives, and giving voice to those who claim to have experienced unexplained aerial events.

This issue of "FOREIGN NEWS" compiles clippings from various publications, primarily from late 2005 and early 2006, focusing on UFO sightings, paranormal events, and Bigfoot encounters across different regions.

UFO Sightings Over Wales

The lead article from the Western Mail (November 16, 2005) reports that dozens of UFOs have been sighted in Wales over the past three years, with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) unable to explain 28 of these reports. Notable incidents include a green circular object over Mumbles in January 2002 and a bright object over West Swansea in January 2005, both classified as UFOs. Other reports mention a black object over Rhyl, a flying disc over Newport, and a spinning craft with legs spotted in Rhondda. The MoD stated that UFO classification means no rational explanation was found, not necessarily extraterrestrial origin. Figures show seven sightings in 2002, eight in 2003, four in 2004, and nine in 2005. UFO researcher Chris Fowler commented on the credible sightings, suggesting they could be advanced human craft or something else. The article also touches on a family's account of a purple triangular craft near the Great Orme in 1997, involving lost time. The MoD holds UFO reports going back 25 years, but the cost of logging older reports is prohibitive. A separate clipping from the Evening Leader (December 22, 2005) discusses the 'Shot-Down UFO' incident, with ufologist Russ Kellett investigating a claim that a UFO was shot down over Llangollen on February 7, 1974, shortly after a reported crash in the Berwyn Mountains on January 23, 1974. Kellett believes this was the start of phenomena in the area for four years and is seeking witnesses for the February 7th incident.

Another article from the East Anglian Daily Times (December 27, 2005) marks the 25th anniversary of the Rendlesham Forest UFO sighting in 1980, where US air force personnel reportedly encountered a triangular craft. A UFO trail has been established in the forest. Brenda Butler, who has written books on the sightings, claims that 'orbs and streaking lights' are still being photographed in the area.

Mystery Lights in the Evening

A report from The Wharf (November 17, 2005) details mysterious red and white lights sighted over Sussex, UK. Residents have seen these lights, described as possibly from a silent aircraft or surveillance satellite, over Rottingdean, Saltdean, Devils Dyke, and Brighton's Palace Pier. Pensioner Peter Worsfold described seeing stationary lights with red and white components. Artist Barry Hinchcliff also reported seeing two objects, one in the southern sky and one in the eastern sky, with white and red lights, moving in formation. An astronomer suggested it could be Venus, but the sightings were frequent and in formation. Police had no reports of these lights.

UFO Cases in Puerto Rico

Page 3 and 4 present translations of UFO cases from Puerto Rico compiled by Lucy Guzman of OVNI.NET. These include a low-flying UFO reported in Ponce in January 2006, described as dark with erratic movements. Another case from Yauco in late January 2006 describes a low-flying C-130 Hercules aircraft dropping a 'spray' that caused respiratory problems and allergies. A report from Guaynabo details an alleged alien claiming that anthropologist Andrew Alvarez is an extraterrestrial. Subsequent entries detail more C-130 sightings over urban areas in Puerto Rico in February 2006, including a case in Juana Diaz where a witness captured a photo of an unidentified object in the clouds. Page 5 and 6 continue with paranormal reports from Puerto Rico, including an invisible presence pelting a couple with coins and stones in Adjuntas, and a humanoid ball of light and voices in an unknown language reported in Caguas. Page 5 also includes a detailed account from Argentina of police corporal Sergio Pucheta's UFO experience in March 2006, where he encountered a red light that caused him to feel paralyzed and described 'entities' that 'levitated' and tested him. Page 6 continues with more reports from Argentina, including strange lights detected by police near Parera and a UFO captured on video in Mexico in December 2005. A fisherman in General Alvear, Argentina, took cellphone photos of a UFO described as a fireball.

Bigfoot Encounters and Forteana

Page 7 features an article from The Oklahoman (August 7, 2005) titled "Something is definitely out there" about constant Sasquatch watch in Honobia, Oklahoma. The article details accounts of gigantic footprints, unfamiliar sounds, and sightings of hairy, ape-like creatures. Harold Yates, a retired forest ranger, states "Something is definitely out there." Logger Randall Wright describes tracks and expresses a desire to shoot a Bigfoot if seen. The article mentions the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (BFRO) has collected 58 testimonials in Oklahoma since 1971, with 19 from the Kiamichi Mountains. It recounts an incident from January 2000 where Tim Humphreys claimed to have shot at a Bigfoot behind his home, detailing alleged terror by the creature, including stealing deer meat and tapping on windows. Humphreys fired at the Bigfoot, which retreated, and similar sounds were heard. Blood splatters were found on trees, and two other Bigfoots were reportedly seen carrying the injured one away. A logger also reported seeing two creatures carrying a third across the road. The article also mentions a Bigfoot festival planned for Honobia. Page 8 continues this theme with a report on the Bigfoot Festival dates for 2006 in Honobia, OK. Another article from the Sun, Toronto (April 12, 2006) discusses "Searching for Sasquatch" in Harrison Hot Springs, B.C., Canada, focusing on tours led by Willie and Kelsey Charlie of the local Chehalis First Nations community, who share knowledge of traditions and sightings of the Sasquatch, described as a supernatural being. A report from the Tribune-Herald (October 30, 2005) highlights "Texas' folklore subject of book," mentioning legends like the "Black Jesus" statue in Huntsville, a lost gold mine near El Paso, an alien airship crash near Aurora, ghost lights at Marfa, and numerous ghost sightings across Texas.

Unusual Ice Falls

Page 9 features a Chronicle article (April 15, 2006) about "Falling ice perplexes scientists" after two chunks of ice landed in California in a week. One block, the size of a microwave oven, fell into Loma Linda, punching through a recreation center roof. Another fell in Oakland's Bushrod Park. While the FAA is investigating under the theory of aircraft origin, experts like David Travis and Jesus Martinez-Frias propose theories involving ice forming on aircraft or a process similar to hail formation in the upper atmosphere, potentially linked to global warming. Travis leans towards the aircraft theory, citing pilots' accounts of areas not covered by deicing equipment.

Arkansas Bigfoot Report Clarification

Page 8 includes a letter to the editor from Teresa Hall of Ashdown, Arkansas, clarifying a previous newspaper column about a Bigfoot sighting. Hall, the state curator for the BFRO, states that the BFRO does not publish witness names and that the information in the column was inaccurate, emphasizing the organization's commitment to confidentiality.

Malaysia to Hunt Bigfoot

Page 8 also includes a brief report from Vancouver (March 30, 2006) stating that Malaysia's Johor state government is launching a scientific expedition to track down a 'gap-toothed Bigfoot' in ancient rainforests, prompted by reports of strange creatures seen by workers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The collection of articles reflects a strong interest in unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and Bigfoot. The reporting style varies from factual accounts of official investigations and witness testimonies to more speculative explorations of folklore and paranormal events. There is a clear emphasis on documenting sightings and experiences, with several articles encouraging public participation in reporting or investigating these phenomena. The inclusion of translations from Spanish-language sources broadens the scope of reported incidents. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various perspectives and evidence without necessarily endorsing any single conclusion, while also acknowledging the skepticism and potential for misinterpretation.