UFO Newsclipping Service - 2011 06 - no 503

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Wayne County Journal-Banner, dated Thursday, June 16, 2011, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, featuring a cover story about an upcoming UFO Revival event, discussions on the Roswell incident, and reports of recent sightings. The publication also touches upon the origins of the 'flying saucer' term and the work of UFO researchers and organizations.

CAAW's UFO Revival

The lead story announces the CAAW (Cultural Arts Alliance Wayne Ozark Region Inc.) UFO Revival event scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 17-18, at the Patterson Community Center. The event aims to commemorate the 1973 UFO flap, a period when many area residents reported seeing mysterious lights in the sky. The revival will feature speakers such as Barbara Decker, Dawn Allen, Dennis Hovis, Mark Rutledge, Dr. Harley Rutledge, Earl Mullins, Lowell Grissom, Paul Vance, David Marler, Kris Matson, Ken Storch, Debbie Ziegelmeyer, and Margie Kay. The program includes historical recaps, science demonstrations, discussions on space exploration, and even an Elvis impersonator. Attendees can expect UFO book sales, memorabilia, exhibits, and homemade UFO cookies. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children. CAAW is described as a group of artisans networking to enhance communities through cultural arts.

Stalin, Mengele Plot: Latest Theory on Roswell 'UFO'

This article discusses a new book, 'Area 51' by Annie Jacobsen, which proposes a controversial theory about the 1947 Roswell incident. Jacobsen speculates that Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, after World War II, recruited Nazi physician Josef Mengele to create 'grotesque, child-size aviators' to fly into the United States. The intention was to mimic the panic caused by Orson Welles' 1938 radio drama 'The War of the Worlds,' making Americans believe space aliens were invading. The book claims the crashed craft in New Mexico was part of this Soviet plot. However, UFO researchers are reacting skeptically. Bill Lyne, who self-published 'Space Aliens from the Pentagon,' agrees Roswell was a hoax but believes the U.S. government, not the Russians, perpetrated it, using shaved rhesus monkeys dressed in 'g-suits.' Peter Davenport of the National UFO Reporting Center expresses skepticism about Jacobsen's theory, citing the decades of research and testimony from eyewitnesses. Clifford Clift of MUFON also finds the theory lacking in truth, questioning why the Soviets would use such technology if they had it. David Perkins views the theory as fantastical, suggesting the U.S. military might have used a crashed experimental aircraft and disguised it as an alien craft to confuse foreign enemies.

UFO Sighting Increase Ongoing Over Six Weeks in Kansas City, Missouri Area

This report from examiner.com, dated June 23, 2011, details an increase in UFO sightings in the Kansas City area over the preceding six weeks, as reported by Margie Kay, Assistant State Director for MUFON Missouri. Kay recounts an interview with a man who claims to have been visited by extraterrestrials since age 12. The report details sightings of orange balls of light, a large gray UFO, and a metallic saucer-shaped craft with pulsating lights. Several witnesses reported possible abductions. Kay states that 24 reports have been filed since May 7, indicating a 'sightings escalation.'

The Curious Tale of a Journalist Who Helped Spawn the UFO Industry

This Houston Chronicle article by Eric Berger explores the origins of the 'flying saucer' myth, attributing a significant role to journalist Bill Bequette. In 1947, pilot Kenneth Arnold reported seeing strange objects near Mount Rainier, describing their erratic movement as 'like a saucer if you skip it across the water.' Bequette, a reporter for United Press, misinterpreted this description, leading to the widespread use of the term 'flying saucers' and shaping the UFO myth. The article notes that this misquote is considered one of the most significant reporter misquotes in history. The UFO industry, including books and lectures, was born from this narrative, followed by the Roswell incident.

The Long-Distance Runner

This Herald-Tribune article profiles Larry Bryant, a 73-year-old former NICAP activist who has been filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests against government agencies for decades. Bryant's activism stems from a desire for 'openness, accountability and fair play.' He joined NICAP at age 19 and has pursued various FOIA requests related to UFOs and potential government cover-ups, including an incident near F.E. Warren Air Force Base involving offline nuclear missiles. Bryant also offers a $2,000 reward for military gun-cam footage of a UFO.

Geauga County Man Shares Story of UFO Sighting

This WEWS news report from Cleveland, Ohio, dated June 26, 2011, features Glenn Frohring, a resident who believes he saw a UFO in Geauga County in 1954. He described a disc hovering over a lake that moved like it was on a rubber band. Frohring theorizes that UFO sightings in the 1950s were related to the testing of atom bombs. The article also mentions a report of a UFO leaving a crop circle at Patti Clemson's grandparents' farm.

Daily TWiP – U.S. Air Force Releases the Roswell UFO Report Today in 1997

This Nashua Telegraph article, dated June 24, 2011, recalls the U.S. Air Force's release of a 231-page report in 1997 titled 'The Roswell Report, Case Closed.' The report aimed to debunk the UFO crash theory, stating there was no alien wreckage or government cover-up. However, ufologists criticized the report, pointing out inconsistencies and maintaining the cover-up claims. The article briefly recounts the Roswell incident, mentioning the discovery of unusual materials by rancher William 'Mac' Brazel and the Air Force's initial declaration of a 'flying disc' before retracting it to an 'errant weather balloon.' The story gained renewed attention in the 1970s when Major Jesse Marcel spoke about the event.

Back in the Day - June 9, 1966: UFO Sighting in Ringwood

This North Jersey.com article from June 12, 2011, reports on a UFO sighting in Ringwood, New Jersey, on June 4, 1966. George Malmgren described seeing two bright, white objects, one of which followed the Earth's curvature. His wife Joan also witnessed the erratic movement of the objects. The article notes that Malmgren, a flight engineer and Korean War veteran, had never seen anything like it. Similar sightings were reported in the area, including a 'strange, hovering blue light' over the Wanaque Reservoir.

Roswell UFO Museum's Fascinating Space

This Los Angeles Times article by Jay Jones highlights the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, New Mexico. The museum aims to inform visitors about the 1947 event, with Julie Shuster, daughter of former public information officer Walter Haut, sharing personal anecdotes. Haut's account of seeing nonhuman creatures among the wreckage is mentioned. The museum, founded 20 years prior, displays newspaper and radio reports from July 1947, replicas of debris, and depositions. Glenn Dennis, a co-founder and former undertaker, was contacted for 'small, youth-sized caskets' related to the incident. The museum has seen a significant increase in attendance, welcoming guests from all 50 states and over 30 foreign countries.

About 'Saucers' and Sen. Russell's Letter

This Los Angeles Examiner article from January 20, 1957, discusses renewed interest in 'flying saucers' following statements by retired Rear Adm. Delmar S. Fahrney. It focuses on a 'Senator Russell' letter from January 17, 1956, written by Senator Richard B. Russell of Georgia. The letter, in response to an inquiry about a UFO sighting Russell reportedly witnessed in Europe in late 1955, states that the 'affected agencies of the Government' advised against publicizing the matter. The article also mentions Congressman John Moss's inquiry into Department of Defense public information policies and potential subpoenas for Albert M. Chop and Edward J. Ruppelt, who worked on 'Project Bluebook.'

SPACE PARLEY IN DESERT

This Los Angeles Times article from March 11, 1955, announces a convention at Giant Rock Airport near Joshua Tree, California, where individuals claiming to have ridden in flying saucers would share their experiences. Speakers included George van Tassel, George Williamson, Richard Miller, and Dr. Charles Laughead, who predicted upheavals and the reappearance of lost continents. Attendees were advised to bring their own supplies.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS?

This Wales Online article from April 17, 2011, reports on UFO sightings in Wales, with South Wales Police releasing details of 16 reports received between February 2007 and January 2011. Notable sightings include a large UFO emitting beams of light in Aberfan, four unidentified objects soaring past aeroplanes near Bridgend, and a large gray orb seen over Maerdy mountain. The article also references 33 reports from North and Dyfed-Powys Police over the past decade. Sceptics, like astronomy lecturer Martin Griffiths, urge critical thinking, suggesting most sightings are likely human activity.

Fishing Pair Make Catch of the Day with UFO Photo

This Derby Telegraph article from April 16, 2011, features Paul Bignall and his son Sam, who photographed a large black triangle with a white glow hovering over a fishing lake in Ticknall. Paul initially mistook it for a hot air balloon. He is seeking explanations and wondering if anyone else witnessed the event.

UFO Chasers Head for the Hills

This Georgia Straight article from Vancouver, Canada, dated June 23, 2011, discusses UFO sightings in the Lower Mainland, particularly 'airborne orange orbs.' Richard Tortorella, president of UFO BC, suggests the hills behind Mission as a prime viewing spot. While acknowledging that most sightings can be explained, Tortorella notes a small percentage remain unexplained. He emphasizes the importance of witness credibility and observational skills. The article also recounts an event at Vancouver International Airport in 2001 where air traffic was stopped due to an unidentified object, and the 'orange orb' phenomenon seen at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival in 2008.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, historical UFO events like the Roswell incident and the 1973 UFO flap, and the ongoing debate between believers and sceptics. There's a strong emphasis on investigative journalism, with articles detailing FOIA requests and the work of organizations like MUFON and CAAW. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and reports while also acknowledging the need for critical analysis and skepticism, as highlighted in the discussion of the 'flying saucer' origin and the advice from sceptics in the Wales section. The issue also touches upon the historical development of UFO mythology and the role of media in shaping public perception.

This issue of the Torquay Herald Express Series, dated May 18, 2011, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, alongside a significant news story concerning the extradition case of Gary McKinnon. The publication features a mix of local reports, historical investigations, and commentary on the unexplained.

Fred's 'Sighting' Makes Bay a Magnet for UFO Fans

The lead story details the 1998 incident involving Fred Lewis-Goodwin and his dog Rio in Paignton, where they witnessed a large, rectangular object with glowing apertures. This event, described as one of the most significant UFO events ever recorded, brought Torbay to the attention of international UFO enthusiasts. Aerospace engineer Roy Dutton, author of 'UFOs In Reality,' researched the incident and believes Earth is being monitored from outer space. The incident, though ignored in the UK, gained traction in the US, leading to visits from American UFO enthusiasts. Dutton suggests the Torbay area has become a UFO hotspot, comparable to Roswell, New Mexico.

Friends Baffled by 'UFO' Sightings in Skies Over Burton

This article reports on a group of friends in Burton who described following 'weird objects' they believed to be UFOs on the night of May 4, 2011. Tanya Marks recounted seeing at least four large, triangular objects with flashing lights that moved erratically for around three hours. The objects were described as fast, small, and capable of changing direction quickly. The report also references previously released Ministry of Defence 'X' files detailing UFO sightings in the UK from 2000-2005, including a case from Burton in 2008.

President Refuses to Halt Gary's Extradition

This section covers the ongoing legal battle of Gary McKinnon, a computer hacker with Asperger's syndrome, who faces extradition to the US. President Barack Obama declined to allow him to be tried in Britain, stating confidence in the UK's legal system. Despite campaigners' hopes and concerns about McKinnon's mental state and suicide risk, the US insists on extradition. The article highlights the Daily Mail's 'Affront to British Justice' campaign and quotes Shami Chakrabarti of Liberty, who argues for McKinnon to be tried in the UK. McKinnon's case began nearly a decade ago when he hacked into Nasa and military computers searching for evidence of 'little green men'.

Daily Mail Comment: A PR Triumph, But Short on Substance

This editorial commentary critiques President Obama's state visit to Britain, praising its public relations success but questioning its substance. The author expresses reservations about Obama's justifications for military interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, and his stance on Guantanamo Bay. The piece specifically criticizes Obama's failure to intervene in the Gary McKinnon extradition case, suggesting that clemency for McKinnon would have been bad PR compared to appearances with royalty.

No Mercy for Gary: As Obama Prepares for UK Visit, His Law Chief Insists U.S. Will Not Bend on Extradition

This article reports on U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder's firm stance on Gary McKinnon's extradition. Holder vowed to 'take all of the necessary steps' to have McKinnon extradited, citing the $1 million in damages caused in the US and the UK courts' previous decisions. McKinnon's mother, Janis Sharp, expressed shock and called on the British government to assert its authority and refuse extradition. The article also mentions the ongoing review of the controversial 2003 Extradition Act.

UFO Invasion or Fishermen Tales?

This report from the Leighton Buzzard Observer details several UFO sightings in the Leighton Buzzard area. It includes an account from a user named 'Britwarrior' who, along with friends, witnessed strange lights and a green disk hovering over treetops while fishing. The article also mentions other 'bright star' sightings and a black oblong shape seen over Leighton.

Looking for Youths Who Spotted UFO

This brief item is a request from John Hanson, a retired CID officer, seeking information about youths from the Felmersham youth club who witnessed a UFO in 1978, as part of his research for a book series on UFOs.

Don't Call Us About UFOs

This article from the Wales Daily Post reveals that North Wales Police have taken 13 reports of UFO sightings between 2004 and 2010. The police spokesperson stated that responses vary depending on the circumstances. The article also details a specific sighting over Bangor in 2010 involving a large, black triangular craft with glowing lights. It notes that the Ministry of Defence has withdrawn its dedicated UFO hotline.

Can You Solve UFO Mystery?

This piece from the Luton News reports on unusual objects spotted by Phil Bray in Luton. Bray described seeing two silent objects moving at approximately 50mph at an altitude of 500ft, which changed their silhouettes. The Ministry of Defence had no record of such sightings.

WRATHSCAPE: Aliens Invade the Airwaves

This column features an interview with Jesse Randolph, the man behind Ufonaut Radio, a US-based media platform focused on UFOs. Randolph discusses his background, his motivation for starting Ufonaut Radio (linked to his cancer diagnosis), and his belief that governments have lied about UFO existence. He highlights Stan Friedman and Don Schmidt as credible figures in ufology and mentions his own UFO experiences. Ufonaut Radio has moved to Phoenix KFNX and is expanding its reach internationally, with a strong YouTube presence.

Nazis' Plan to Attack World With UFOs: Close Encounters of the Third Reich

This article from The Sun explores the alleged Nazi plan to develop flying saucers capable of attacking London and New York. It references a series of tunnels in Germany where SS General Hans Kammler allegedly oversaw the project. The article mentions the upcoming movie 'Iron Sky' and cites eyewitness accounts of Nazi UFOs. It discusses the work of engineers Rudolf Schriever and Otto Habermohl, and claims that two types of flying disks were created. The article also touches on the possibility that captured Nazi rocket scientists contributed to US and Soviet missile programs.

How Stalin and Mengele Plotted the UFO Invasion

This article from the Daily Express presents a controversial theory from Annie Jacobsen's book 'Area 51'. Jacobsen suggests that the Roswell incident was not an alien crash but a Cold War propaganda hoax orchestrated by Joseph Stalin, possibly with the help of Nazi doctor Josef Mengele. The theory posits that human guinea pigs, described as deformed children, were sent in a stealth aircraft to create panic and mislead President Truman about Soviet technological capabilities.

Convincing UFO Sightings

This section provides a chronological list of notable UFO sightings from 1897 (Aurora, Texas) to 2009 (Norway), including the Aurora incident, Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting, a 1980 sighting in Suffolk, a 1993 sighting in Melbourne, and a 2009 sighting in Norway. It also mentions the 1947 Washington sighting by Kenneth Arnold, which coined the term 'flying saucer'.

UFO Appears in Manipur!

This report from The Assam Tribune describes a mysterious incident in Manipur, India, where a young farmer, Koiremba Kumam, fainted after capturing a 'mashak khangdaba potsak ama' (UFO) in his mobile phone video. He claimed to have felt an electric shock. The article also mentions a previous incident in a nearby village involving a bluish icy mass falling from the sky.

Poll Finds Many Washingtonians Believe Sasquatch, UFOs Are Real

This article from the Seattle-based PEMCO Insurance Northwest Poll reveals that a significant percentage of Washington residents believe in Sasquatch and UFOs. Nearly four out of 10 believe Sasquatch exists, and 13 percent claim to have seen one or know someone who has. For UFOs, 55 percent believe they exist, and 32 percent have seen one or know someone who has. The article also touches on other Northwest folklore, such as the D.B. Cooper hijacking and the mystery of 'Mel's Hole'.

Travel: Mothman Put Point Pleasant on the Map

This article from ClarionLedger.com discusses how the legend of the Mothman has transformed the small town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, into a tourist destination. The 7-foot tall, winged, red-eyed creature was reportedly sighted in the 1960s, along with 'men in black' and UFO sightings. The legend, popularized by John Keel's book and the movie 'The Mothman Prophecies', has led to millions of dollars in revenue for the town through tourism and development.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, government secrecy surrounding unexplained phenomena, and the intersection of folklore with reality. The articles explore historical accounts, contemporary sightings, and the psychological and societal impact of these events. There is a clear interest in debunking or explaining away some phenomena while acknowledging the persistent mystery and public fascination with UFOs and other unexplained occurrences. The editorial stance varies, with some articles presenting UFOs as credible phenomena requiring investigation, while others, like the Daily Mail comment, express skepticism and focus on the political or PR aspects of such stories. The issue also highlights the role of media in shaping public perception and disseminating information about these topics.