UFO Newsclipping Service - 2008 06 - no 467

Magazine Overview

This issue of the UFO Newsclipping Service & Media Report, dated June 2008 (Number 467), features a collection of articles and reports on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The cover story focuses on the Stephenville, Texas sightings from January 2008, while other articles delve into historical cases, media analysis, and official statements.

Stephenville-area sightings still unexplained after investigation

This article by Bryon Okada and Matt Frazier from the Star Telegram reports on the findings of the Mutual UFO Network's (MUFON) investigation into the Stephenville, Texas sightings. Despite credible witnesses including a pilot, constable, city officials, and clergy, MUFON investigators could not conclusively confirm the sightings as bona-fide UFOs. The most provocative piece of evidence, a 12-minute video by David Caron, was identified as a zoomed-in video of a star. MUFON Texas chapter director Ken Cherry stated that the report would likely frustrate both believers and debunkers. The investigation focused on an object described as being a mile long and half-mile wide, with reports primarily coming from the Dublin area (55% of 19 reports). Witness descriptions of bright lights (red, blue, orange, white, yellow) were common. Other explanations considered included military target sleeves, camera sensitivity, lights from other sources, sun dogs, lens flares, and bad film. The article notes a significant increase in UFO sightings in Texas, with 240 reports in the last six months compared to 496 from 1969 to September 2007.

Close encounters of the second kind in Stratham

This article by Dean Merchant from Seacoastonline.com recounts UFO encounters experienced by eight local children in Stratham, New Hampshire, during the 1970s. One incident involved three boys who encountered a UFO while sledding near Bunker Hill. They described a bright, glaring aerial craft with alternating lights that descended onto a field. The craft was roundish or slightly football-shaped and ascended rapidly. John Oswald, a NICAP investigator, interviewed the boys and noted that his sensors had been triggered at the time of the encounter. Another incident involved a group of youngsters in the 'old hollow' area. Kathleen Marden, a UFO investigator and niece of Betty and Barney Hill, notes that such stories are common in rural areas and that physical trace evidence like burned grass and soil changes are often associated with these sightings. The article also mentions a 1998 MUFON report of a rectangular shape with lights seen in Stratham.

British U.F.O. Shocker! Government Officials Were Telling the Truth

This New York Times article by Sarah Lyall discusses the release of British Ministry of Defense files on UFO sightings from 1978 to 2002. Senior lecturer David Clarke states that while many strange aerial phenomena are unexplained, there is no evidence of alien visitations. The government's explanation for documenting these sightings is to ensure military airspace is not breached. The released files contain hundreds of sightings, often with simple one-page forms detailing the object's size and behavior. Examples include descriptions of cigar-shaped, saucer-shaped, and amorphous blinking blobs, as well as a Vulcan-shaped object and a bright yellow light. One report mentions a Royal Air Force jet carrying Prince Charles being unnerved by a glowing red object. The article notes that the US systematically compiled UFO reports until Project Blue Book closed in 1969. Some UFO enthusiasts believe the British government is still concealing information, while others, like Joe McGonagle, argue the documents show a failure to investigate properly. The article also touches on historical government committees investigating UFOs, such as the Flying Saucer Working Party in 1950, which concluded UFOs were optical illusions or weather phenomena.

Vatican allows alien belief

This Chicago Tribune article by Rex W. Huppke reports on a statement from the Vatican Observatory suggesting that belief in extraterrestrial life is compatible with Catholic faith. Rev. Jose Funes, director of the Vatican Observatory, stated that not believing life exists beyond Earth would be to 'set limits on the creative liberty of God.' Rev. Christopher Corbally, vice director, noted that the idea of other worlds and beings could be granted redemption. The article contrasts this with more literal interpretations of faith, citing potential conflicts with fundamentalist Christian beliefs. It also mentions the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, N.M., and the varying reactions to the Vatican's statement.

Fireworks answer to UFO mystery

This Associated Press report details the arrest of Frederick Lee Mackler in Pikesville, Maryland, for fireworks-related violations. Mysterious middle-of-the-night blasts and flashes of light that had puzzled residents for months were attributed to Mackler, who used a starter's pistol to fire cartridges. Police found fireworks, illegal narcotics, and firearms in his home. Neighbors reported hearing the noises and seeing bright flashes since September.

THIS WEEK IN TEXAS HISTORY: UFOs are nothing new in North Texas

This article by Bartee Haile from the News Telegram recounts historical UFO sightings in North Texas, dating back to April 17, 1897. A breathless farmer reported finding an airship in Stephenville, which was part of a larger phenomenon of mysterious airships sighted across the country since November 1896. Reports from Denison, Weatherford, Corsicana, and Farmersville describe illuminated objects, 'machines' with locomotive-like lights, and crafts with occupants. The article notes that these sightings predated the Wright brothers' breakthrough and balloon technology. It also mentions a specific incident in Farmersville where two men and a dog were seen near a craft, and another report of singing. A Texas and Pacific operator in Fort Worth described a 'passenger coach' like object with a powerful searchlight. The article also touches on a Granbury incident where a volunteer rifle company was ordered to fire on an 'air machine.'

NBC's Dateline Airs Misleading UFO Footage

This article by Tony Ortega from The Village Voice criticizes NBC's Dateline program for its presentation of UFO footage. Ortega argues that Dateline misled viewers by conflating two distinct events on the night of March 13, 1997, in Arizona: the 'Phoenix Lights' (a 'vee' formation of lights) and a string of military flares seen later. He asserts that the 'vee' was a formation of airplanes, a fact he claims to have debunked years prior as a reporter. Ortega criticizes Dateline for focusing on the unexplained aspect and quoting witnesses who saw the earlier 'vee' event while showing footage of the later flares, thus perpetuating misinformation.

Strange, stranger, strangest in NCW

This Wenatchee World report details a Tuesday incident where local public safety workers responded to a report of a large, low-flying plane spewing black smoke, possibly in distress. The aircraft was possibly identified as a B-52 bomber. The plane was observed flying low and making strange noises before entering and exiting the valley.

Man pushes creation of panel to prepare city for space aliens

This Rocky Mountain News article by Daniel J. Chacón reports on Jeff Peckman's initiative to create an Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission in Denver. Peckman, who previously sponsored a 'Safety through Peace' initiative, believes extraterrestrial existence is proven by 'never-before-seen video' footage. The proposed commission would deal with issues related to the presence of extraterrestrial beings on Earth. The article notes that Peckman has faced criticism for his proposals, with one councilman calling them 'looney-tooney.' Peckman aims to gather signatures for the initiative to appear on the November ballot.

Explore the unexplained in Yucca Valley

This Desert Post Weekly article by Maggie Downs discusses the historical significance of Landers, California, as a site for paranormal phenomena and UFO contact, particularly related to aerospace engineer George Van Tassel and his Integratron. The article highlights the annual Retro UFO Spacecraft Convention, which draws visitors interested in historical reenactments, lectures, and discussions about otherworldly contact. It emphasizes Landers' importance in UFO lore, comparable to Roswell, N.M.

UFO report: 'It will not satisfy the believers or the debunkers'

This brief report from the Star Telegram summarizes a MUFON investigation into unusual sightings in Erath County, Texas, around January 8. Despite witness accounts and radar data, MUFON could not prove the sightings were UFOs, but also could not debunk them. The Erath sighting was ranked No. 3 on Dateline NBC's 'Top 10 Close Encounters Caught on Tape.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, witness testimony, the challenges of investigation, and the role of media and government in reporting on UFOs. There's a clear tension between skeptical, evidence-based analysis and the enduring public fascination with the unexplained. The publication seems to present a range of perspectives, from detailed investigative reports and historical accounts to critical analyses of media coverage and official statements. The inclusion of the Vatican's statement on alien life suggests an openness to exploring the theological and philosophical implications of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting information and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also highlighting instances where official explanations or media reports may be misleading or incomplete.

This issue of the Maidenhead Express, dated May 2, 2008, focuses on UFO sightings with the cover headline "FIREBALLS IN THE SKY." The lead story details a sighting of orange lights in formation over Taplow, England, reported by multiple witnesses. The issue also includes a 'Letter of the Week' discussing the Berwyn UFO incident and a 'Letter from the Week' from Scott Felton in Colwyn Bay, who claims authorities are covering up a UFO landing in the Berwyn Mountains.

UFOs Spotted Flying in Formation Over Taplow

Reported by Antony Quarrell, this article describes how mysterious orange 'fireballs' were seen flying in formation over Taplow between 9:45 pm and 10 pm on a Sunday night. Witnesses Victor and Linda Moran described them as 'orange and flying in some sort of formation,' while Maria Butler likened them to 'little balloons with lights in there.' Mr. Moran, a Warrant Officer with 332 Air Cadets Squadron, estimated their altitude to be between that of a small aircraft and an airliner. The silent objects headed towards Burnham. Thames Valley Police received reports but stated no further action was needed. One possible explanation offered is the release of 'Chinese lanterns' during wedding celebrations at a nearby hotel. However, unusual flight patterns of three UFOs behind the main formation were noted, and one resident reported a flickering household lamp, a phenomenon associated with UFO activity. Marian Clarke, a resident, recalled seeing a similar 'bright light' in the same area 25-30 years ago, describing it as a 'torpedo shape' that 'came from nowhere and it went to nowhere.' The Meteorological Office stated there was no weather phenomenon that would explain the sighting, and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) reported no compromise of UK airspace. The article also notes a spate of UFO sightings in Slough in 1967 and recent reports over Slough, Windsor, and Marlow.

Letter of the Week: Berwyn UFO Incident

Scott Felton of Colwyn Bay writes regarding previous reports on the Berwyn UFO stories. He corrects the assertion that something 'impacted' the Berwyn Mountains, stating the earth tremor was a normal seismic event. He explains that the explosive sounding tremor and lamp beams observed by Llandrillo residents on Cader Bronwen led police to suspect a plane crash. A nurse on the Llangynog road stumbled upon an object, and other witnesses saw a craft land and later depart. Felton claims authorities knew a UFO had landed, not crashed, and that a three-man search and rescue team from RAF Valley covered Cader Berwyn and Moel Sych the next day. Despite requests from police and witnesses, military records have vanished, and the MOD denies any search team went to the Berwyn Mountains. Felton asserts he knows the exact location where the UFO sat, only 1.25 miles from the nurse, and that this fact has caused him trouble with officialdom. He states that blacked-out planes flew up and down the range searching for it. Days later, soldiers were seen loading two boxes into a wagon, which Felton describes as a covert operation to remove visual evidence. He concludes that while the law requires documents to be released, their content may prove nothing, and the government has gone to extraordinary lengths to cover up the fact that a UFO was on Cader Berwyn.

Other News and Articles from Various Publications:

Eastern Daily Press (May 15, 2008): 'Whitewash' claim as lid lifted on the UFO X-files

The Ministry of Defence has declassified a large quantity of UFO documents, referred to as 'X-files,' available for public consultation at the National Archives. These files cover 1978-1987 and contain details of thousands of sightings across the UK, including the unexplained Rendlesham Forest case near an RAF base in Suffolk from over 25 years ago. The incident, dubbed 'Britain's Roswell,' involved two servicemen reporting a conical metallic object. The MoD initially denied any threat to national security, but later evidence suggested a substantial file existed, leading to cover-up claims. Lt Col Charles Halt, who recorded the investigation, stated he was never debriefed. Sceptics suggest the sightings were related to the Russian Cosmos 749 rocket re-entry. Dr. David Clarke calls the declassification a 'whitewash,' as the files contain little new information. A 1979 briefing for Lord Strabolgi stated that 'UFO-logy is anything but claptrap.' The Rendlesham incident files include a verdict that the base commander's delayed report indicated low importance.

Daily Echo / Evening Post (May 13/15, 2008): UFO sightings in Hampshire and Beeston

The Daily Echo reports on the declassification of UFO files, noting over 40 sightings in Hampshire in the last ten years. Ernie Sears, an 84-year-old UFO enthusiast, welcomed the disclosure. The article includes a map of UFO sightings in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Separately, the Evening Post reports on a possible UFO sighting over Beeston, described as a bright and stationary triangular light. Notts police took a call but the caller hung up.

Hampshire Chronicle (May 15, 2008): Mysterious object seen flying over Southampton

This article details a new video of a strange object filmed over Shirley, Hampshire. Company director Will Campbell captured footage of a cube-shaped object floating high above houses. He described it as black, slowly rising, then stabilizing and moving away. Campbell was confident it wasn't a kite due to no wind and noted its large arc across the sky. He believes in extraterrestrial life but is skeptical of most UFO claims.

Namibian (May 21, 2008): 'UFO' sightings at coast

Residents of Usakos, Namibia, reported seeing an unidentified flying object (UFO) pass overhead on a Sunday night. Hester Schmidt described it as a 'round ball with a long tail,' extremely fast and low. Thomas Ismael and Sabina Naruses corroborated the sighting, noting a huge light over the town. The article references similar sightings over Walvis Bay in 1976, where a 'strange phenomenon' or 'Space Monster' was reported.

Londonderry Sentinel (May 13, 2008): UFO expert claims Foyle a portal for E.T.'s

Ireland's leading ufologist, Betty Meyler, claims Lough Foyle may be a portal for alien spacecraft, following a photograph of a 'flying saucer' over Prehen. Meyler dismissed claims the image was faked and stated such craft are often cigar-shaped or triangular. She believes craft are attracted to energy from megalithic sites or water, suggesting Lough Foyle could be a portal. The article also mentions three round objects seen in a triangular formation in Limavady.

The Sun (May 2, 2008): Is UFO a flying human?

This article reports on sensational sightings of a 'flying HUMAN' above Mexico, described as a woman-like figure wearing a cape. Ufologist Anna Luisa Cid believes the sightings are real, stating it is 'something that we cannot explain.' Policeman Leonardo Samaniego also reported a floating person landing on his bonnet.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald (May 6, 2008): UFO Latest

Reporters contacted the MET office and Prestwick Airport regarding unusual lights. Further pictures were obtained from eyewitnesses using high-tech camera phones.

Grantham Journal (April 28, 2008): UFO case in Grantham

Journal reader Andy Aulton captured video of 'weird lights' over Grantham. He described seeing three orange spheres moving at a constant speed with no noise, unlike typical aircraft.

Todmorden News (May 1, 2008): UFO focus case in Todmorden

Film and television company Firefly is making a series featuring a famous Todmorden UFO case involving Alan Godfrey's story from 1980. Godfrey, then a police officer, described being taken aboard an alien spacecraft after investigating a farmer's field. The case is linked to the unexplained death of Zygmund Adamski. The article notes that the case has become well-documented and was linked to the Adamski case, leading to a police clampdown on staff talking about it.

Kent Online (May 1, 2008): Was light shining through cloud a UFO?

A group of friends in Kent reported seeing a bright light that changed shape and moved off at speed. They concluded it was not a spotlight from the ground, a plane, or a helicopter. They also heard jets and a possible four-engined prop aircraft later.

Plymouth Herald (March 18, 2008): UFOs witnessed over Devon

This section includes letters to the editor discussing UFOs. Brian Potter questions whether sightings are mistaken for 'flying pink elephants' due to alcohol. Mystic Mike notes the subject entering mainstream media and believes something is happening globally. Paul Sinclair shares his experience setting up a website to collect reports and believes powers that be know about UFOs.

Northern Territory News (May 1, 2008): Miners 'saw UFO'

Five mine workers on Groote Eylandt, Australia, are convinced they saw a UFO fly over them. Arnold Murray described a bright, silent object whizzing over the mine site, which shot off and left an orange trail. Defence spokeswoman Kelly Cooper stated no military aircraft were flying in the area.

Leader-Telegram (May 22, 2008): A monster reward

This article focuses on the legend of 'Pepie,' a 'monster' said to inhabit Lake Pepin, Wisconsin. The Lake City Tourism Bureau has offered a $50,000 reward for proof of its existence. Larry Nielson, a spokesman for the bureau, discusses the history of sightings and the effort to solve the mystery and boost tourism. Nielson recounts personal experiences of seeing strange, unidentified floating objects on the water and a puzzling wave. He compares Lake Pepin to Loch Ness and Lake Champlain in terms of size and legend. The article also touches on the difficulty of proving such phenomena and the skepticism surrounding them.

Sand Mountain Reporter (May 24, 2008): In search of Bigfoot

This article details Hawk Spearman's personal encounter with a Bigfoot-like creature in Ohio in April 1999. Spearman, who now runs an animal control business and co-founded the Elusive Primates of North America (EPNA), has dedicated years to finding proof of Bigfoot's existence. He describes the creature as large, hairy, bipedal, and reddish-brown, with shoulders like football pads. The encounter involved a confrontation where the creature threw a rock. Spearman emphasizes his research is scientific, aiming to capture and study the creature without harm. He notes that Bigfoot research is often filled with fraudulent claims. EPNA investigates sightings, footprints, and sounds, using audio recorders and cameras. The article mentions reports of strange sounds and footprints in Oneonta, Alabama, and a high-pitched scream heard by Regina Sloan and her mother, Judy Keener, in the 1970s. The Spearmans express concern about the consequences of proving Bigfoot's existence, questioning whether it would help or harm the creature.

VolunteerTV.com (May 6, 2008): More crop circles appear in East Tennessee

This report covers the appearance of a crop circle in Monroe County, Tennessee, for the second time in two years. The new design, a triangle with circles at each corner, appeared in a wheat field. Residents Johnnie Helm and Jean Merrell expressed disbelief that it could be man-made due to its speed and perfection. Investigators ruled a previous design 'non man-made.' The exact location is being kept private to prevent strangers from trampling the crops.

Leader-Post (May 14, 2008): Cow found mutilated in Saskatchewan

A macabre mystery of cattle mutilation has surfaced in the Stockholm area, Saskatchewan. A pregnant cow was found missing its rectum, female organs, udder, navel, top and bottom lips, one ear, and one eye, with its tongue cut out. There were no signs of blood or struggle, and the injuries appeared to be precise incisions. The article discusses various theories, including natural predators, aliens, government operatives, and cults. Veterinarian Dr. Kathleen Francis expressed shock at the precision of the incisions and the lack of blood, suggesting electric cautery. The report notes that cattle mutilations first rose to prominence in the US in the 1960s and are characterized by similar removals and clean incisions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the persistent reports of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), the ongoing debate about their origins, and the alleged government secrecy surrounding the topic. Several articles highlight the declassification of official documents, suggesting a shift towards greater transparency, while others point to continued cover-ups and skepticism from authorities. The issue also touches on other unexplained phenomena, such as cryptids (Bigfoot, Lake Pepin monster) and crop circles, suggesting a broader interest in the unknown. The editorial stance across these publications appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, presenting witness accounts, and exploring various explanations, while acknowledging the skepticism and the lack of definitive proof. There is a clear interest in UFOs as a subject of public fascination and ongoing investigation.