APCIC - Vol 02 No 04 - 1977

Magazine Overview

This is the April 1977 issue, Volume Two, No. 4, of the "AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING & INFORMATION CENTER" newsletter, published by A. P. C. I. C. The publication is based in Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A., and focuses on UFO sightings and related topics.

Book Reviews

The issue features a section on "NEW HARDCOVER BOOKS" and "NEW PAPERBACKS," reviewing several titles relevant to the publication's theme:

• FIRST, MAN. THEN, ADAM! by Irwin Ginsburgh (Simon & Schuster): Explores the origins of man via the "ancient astronaut" concept.
• FAMOUS MYSTERIES OF MODERN TIMES by Leonard Gribble (Transatlantic Arts, Inc.): A collection of "mysteries," not necessarily Fortean in nature.
• MEGALITHS, MYTHS AND MEN by Peter Lancaster Brown (Taplinger Pub. Co.): A book on "astro-archaeology," examining stone monuments and their celestial relationships.
• THE AGE OF VELIKOVSKY by C. J. Hanson (Kronos Press): A summary of Immanuel Velikovsky's life and theories.
• FROM MY WORLD TO YOURS by Jasper Swain (Walker & Co.): Another book on alleged communication with the dead.
• THE SECRET COUNTRY by Janet & Colin Bord (Walker & Co.): A companion to their earlier work, covering "mystery sites" of the British Isles.
• HANDBOOK OF UNUSUAL NATURAL PHENOMENA compiled by Wm. R. Corliss (The Sourcebook Project): A large compilation of material for Forteans.
• NAZCA: JOURNEY TO THE SUN by Jim Woodman (Pocket Books): Discusses modern balloon flights and Nazca, seeking to prove ancient tribes flew in balloons.
• IN SEARCH OF MAGIC AND WITHCRAFT by Alan Landsburg (Bantam Books, Inc.): Part of a series, covering devil worship and witchcraft.
• IN SEARCH OF STRANGE PHENOMENA by Alan Landsburg (Bantam Books, Inc.): Explores pyramid power, the Bermuda Triangle, and reincarnation.
• JOURNEY TO INFINITY by Johannes von Buttlar (Fontana Books): Speculations on time travel and UFOs.
• THE BETTY BOOK by Steward Edward White (E.P. Dutton): A reprint of a classic book on communication with the dead.

Notices

Notices include information on new book listings supplied by Mr. Lou Farish of Plumerville, Arkansas, and an announcement that PAGE RESEARCH LIBRARY will be used as an official source for obtaining UFO and related books, with contact information for Mr. Dennis Pilichis.

News Reports on UFO Sightings

The issue compiles several news clippings detailing UFO sightings from various locations:

• California Lawmen Report Seeing UFOs (The Washington Post, March 24, 1977): Reports of mysterious bright lights hovering and zooming over southern California, with seven sightings in nine hours. Law enforcement officers, including sheriff's deputies and Highway Patrol officers, witnessed these objects. An Air Force spokesman stated that nothing showed up on radar and that the Air Force had stopped its UFO investigation in 1969.
• Several Savannahians Report Seeing UFOs (The Miami News, March 21, 1977): A local disc jockey received approximately 15 calls reporting unusual objects on the horizon, described as orange-red discs moving up and down.
• 40 report UFOs (Democrat and Chronicle, Rochester, NY, March 19, 1977): The Orleans County Sheriff's Department received dozens of calls about unidentified flying objects, described as "lights in the sky, white, green and red lights," that hovered and swooped off.
• California UFOs (The Evening Bulletin, Philadelphia, PA, March 23, 1977): A pair of diamond-shaped objects trailing blue streams were seen in Southern California by airmen, sheriff's helicopter crewmen, and highway patrolmen. The objects did not show up on radar.
• UFOs Really Meteorites (The Indianapolis Star, March 11, 1977): A meteorite shower prompted calls reporting brilliant green flashes, which citizens believed to be "falling stars" or "UFOs."
• UFOs back - reported in Berwick area (Bloomsburg, PA. Press, March 3, 1977): Residents reported sightings of a long object with a light at each end and one in the middle, accompanied by a loud noise, similar to a jet aircraft.
• UFOs said hovering over Cannon Beach (The States-Item, New Orleans, LA, March 26, 1977): Police in Cannon Beach reported sightings of unusual flashing lights, described as stationary star-like objects that changed colors.
• Can't find UFO, but chopper's here looking for uranium deposits (Bloomsburg, PA. Press, March 4, 1977): While searching for a UFO, a large Sikorsky helicopter equipped for uranium detection was found to be operating in the area.
• UFQ Spotted (Glendale, Cal. - Ledger, Feb. 9, 1977): A resident reported seeing a "bright ball of red" above the San Gabriel Mountains that was visible for only a few seconds.
• Martian Craft? (Journal-Register - Medina, March 18, 1977): Dark clouds over Lake Ontario became a "veritable fairyland of colorful lights shooting across the sky." Authorities reported over 40 incidents.
• "Following Light' Attracts Attention (Wilton, N.D. - News, March 3, 1977): A mysterious "light that follows" was reported by Mrs. Barney Strand and her daughter, Sindy, and has drawn attention from scientific and educational circles, including the University of North Dakota and the Mutual UFO Network.
• He saw what he saw, and he saw a UFO (Langley, Wash. - Record, March 3, 1977): Everett Anderson reported seeing a large pulsating yellow light low on the horizon, moving at a cruising speed.
• UFO probably meteorite shower (Ottumwa, Iowa - Courier, March 11, 1977): An unidentified flying object spotted was possibly a meteorite, with reports of "running lights."

You can't say 'no' to UFO sightings -questions persist (The States-Item, New Orleans, LA, March 26, 1977)

This article discusses the persistent nature of UFO sightings despite a lack of definitive proof. It highlights that while many sightings are explained as conventional objects or imagination, the number of unexplained cases and the increasing number of scientists involved in research suggest a growing credibility for the phenomenon. The article mentions the work of Dr. Allen J. Hynek and the Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, which receives about 60 reports monthly, narrowing them down to about 10 "possibles." A case involving three women in Stanford, Kentucky, who claimed to have been abducted and examined by humanoids, is presented as an example of a story that has been difficult to disprove.

UFO sighted near town (Fairfield, Mont. - Times, March 27, 1977)

A report of a "large, bright light of varying intensity" over a farm west of Fairfield, followed by strange circular patterns in the snow, is discussed. The article notes that a Teton County Sheriff's office spokesman mentioned hearing about similar incidents during a new moon.

Ball Of Fire Seen In Eastern Sky Thought Probably A Large Meteor (The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, Tenn., March 22, 1977)

This clipping reports a "ball of fire" seen in the pre-dawn sky of Memphis, which the director of the Memphis City Schools' planetarium believed was likely a bolide meteor. The Air Force's 20th Surveillance Squadron confirmed that no man-made objects entered the atmosphere over the weekend.

Up In The Sky Strange Lights Are Spotted In The Heavens Of California (Evening Independent, St. Petersburg, Fla., March 23, 1977)

This article details sightings of diamond-shaped objects with blue streams over Southern California, witnessed by military personnel and law enforcement. The objects were described as traveling at high speeds and did not appear on radar.

UFO's are at it again (Democrat, Lancaster, N.H., March 17, 1977)

This article compiles several recent UFO sightings, including a saucer-shaped object seen near Colebrook, NH, and a strange light reported in Stewartstown. The author notes the difficulty in getting people to report sightings due to skepticism and mentions a witness who described a large, thin object with a row of lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of UFO sightings, the challenges in proving or disproving them, and the ongoing efforts of researchers and organizations to collect and analyze data. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various reports and perspectives without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the need for scientific investigation and the possibility of conventional explanations. The inclusion of book reviews on related topics suggests an interest in exploring the broader context of unexplained phenomena and alternative theories about human origins and the universe.

This issue of The Commercial Appeal, dated March 21, 1977, features a prominent article titled "Bright Object In Sky Baffles Experts" by William Steverson. The publication appears to be a newspaper, given the format and content.

Bright Object In Sky Baffles Experts

The lead article details a mysterious bright object observed in the eastern sky of Memphis early on March 21, 1977. Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at Memphis International Airport acknowledged receiving numerous reports of the unidentified flying object (UFO). An air traffic controller, William F. Nichols, described it as a "ball of fire" that blazed through the sky, appearing spectacular and leaving a cloud of smoke. Nichols stated it was too high and fast for an aircraft and did not resemble a meteorite, though he speculated it could have been a satellite burning upon re-entry.

However, spokesmen from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Eglin Air Force Base in Florida reported no knowledge of any satellites falling from the sky and could not identify the object. Jim Swinson, a public information spokesman at Eglin Air Force Base, which conducts rocket and space experiments, stated there was "no chance" the object came from there, noting that the last rocket launch was the previous Monday.

George Brown, associate planetarium coordinator at the Pink Palace Museum in Memphis, found the satellite theory plausible but noted that most U.S. satellites re-enter the atmosphere in a north-south direction, whereas the Memphis object moved west to east. He suggested it could have been a Soviet satellite, but acknowledged that their re-entry is not announced. Bill Busler, another planetarium coordinator, stated that no meteorite showers were expected in the Memphis area at that time.

Related Reports and Sightings

The issue also includes several other reports and brief mentions of UFO sightings from various locations and dates in March 1977, indicating a widespread interest in the phenomenon during that period.

• The Commercial Appeal (March 21, 1977):
• A "ball of fire" was seen over Memphis, baffling experts. William F. Nichols, an air traffic controller, described it as spectacular, flaring brightly and spraying sparks. He ruled out aircraft and meteorites, suggesting a satellite re-entry but acknowledging uncertainty.

• Frie Daily Times (March 25, 1977):
• Ed Mathews' "ODDS and ENDS" column mentions reported UFO sightings in Clearfield and Jefferson Counties, Pennsylvania, bringing to mind a previous local sighting. The column reflects on the fascination with UFOs and briefly mentions a non-UFO related anecdote about an elderly man.

• Daily Pilot (Orange County, Calif., March 23, 1977):
• Arthur R. Vinsel's article "Mystery Surrounds Sighting of UFOs" details sightings of two brilliant, silver-white unidentified flying objects over Southland skies early Tuesday (March 22, 1977). Witnesses included police officers, Air Force personnel, and an airline pilot. Descriptions varied, with some seeing cylindrical or teardrop shapes with orange and blue tinges, while others described bright, silver-white blobs. Theories included rare double meteors, meteor showers, or space junk. Officer Dan McKerran and Sgt. Arden Beavers were among the witnesses. Information Officer Kay Carmier of NORAD stated that similar sightings were being checked by computer. Military authorities ruled out missile tests. Lt. Col. Dave Cole of the Air Force's public information office stated that the sightings did not coincide with their activities.

• The Boston Globe (March 23, 1977):
• A brief report notes that police, sheriff's deputies, highway patrol officers, and Air Force guards reported a rash of UFO sightings in Southern California on March 22, 1977, with at least seven sightings in a 9-hour period. Mysterious bright lights were observed hovering, cruising, and zooming over Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.

• Valley News and Valley Green Sheet (March 23, 1977):
• John Marelius' article "Spring brings on merry chase of lights... but were they UFOs?" covers multiple sightings on Monday (March 21, 1977) and Tuesday (March 22, 1977). Two Los Angeles County Sheriff's deputies reported a bright light with an orange cast in the Whittier Hills area. Other deputies reported two bright lights following each other. A Huntington Beach police helicopter pilot reported seeing a couple of bright lights. Civil defense frequencies picked up UFO reports from Sacramento, Salinas, Orange County, and Ventura County.

• Costa Mesa, Calif. - Daily Pilot (March 22, 1977):
• "5 Huntington Cops See" reports that five Huntington Beach policemen sighted two unidentified flying objects streaking across the sky in formation at 3:15 a.m. The pilot of a police helicopter estimated the UFOs traveled at least 10,000 miles per hour. Patrol Sgt. Arden Beavers described the objects as having reddish cone-shaped noses. Officer Jim Lail and observer Tom Arnold also witnessed the event. The article notes that odds of two meteors traveling in formation are "too enormous." It also mentions a report from Laguna Beach Police about an identical object.

• Citizens Journal (Atlanta, Texas, March 24, 1977):
• Cora Davidson's article "UFOS Seen Again" details a sighting by Diane Robertson and others in the Queen City area on February 12, 1977. The object was described as oval-shaped with a red light on the right and a green light on the left, glowing with a bright white light. Carolyn Quinn described it as about four inches in diameter, glowing with a bright white light, and stationary for 20 minutes before drifting. The Cass County Sheriff's Department was notified. Michael Taylor, from the Sheriff's department, was also a witness.

• The Indiahoma Sam - Indiana (March 20, 1977):
• "Boy Says He Saw UFO; His Camera Offers Proof" by Ricky Brandenburg, 13, who claimed to have seen a silver disc-shaped object on March 10, 1977. He took six pictures of the object, which he said disappeared into the clouds. His parents were initially skeptical but later took the film to be developed. The article notes that Indiana State Police attributed similar sightings to a meteorite shower.

• Sturgeon Bay, Wis. - Advocate (March 15, 1977):
• Keta Steebs' article "UFO headquarters calls Door county sighting a 'scout craft'" reports on sightings by at least eight Door County residents. Joan LeClair described an unusual object "hanging over the trees" that glowed green on top and bottom with a red band, appearing to have a dome and passenger compartment. Associate Director Thomas S. Heiman of the Midwest UFO Headquarters in Appleton described it as a "scout craft" resembling George Adamski's UFO photographs. Heiman stated these visitors are friendly and that the craft is about 20-30 feet in diameter and capable of high speeds.

• Dubois, Pa. - Courier-Express (March 21, 1977):
• "Spot Unidentified Object In Sky Over DuBois Area" reports that investigators from the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research were interviewing witnesses to a "flying saucer" sighting on Saturday night. State police and local officers reported seeing an object with yellow lights on top, a red light in the middle, and green lights on the side. Other reports described a cream-colored light and pulsating lights.

• Milwaukee Sentinel (April 1, 1977):
• A brief mention of the "Kentucky Abduction" story from the International UFO Reporter newsletter, detailing an alleged encounter with UFOs and 4-foot-tall beings. The column also includes humorous anecdotes from Dick Niehoff, Ray Duensing, Bill Ambrosh, and Don Ollie.

• Oakland Tribune (March 24, 1977):
• Bill Fiset's "Off the Top" column mentions the Robert Coffey family in Pleasanton seeing a large, bell-shaped UFO with white, red, and green lights that hovered for eight minutes. The sighting was reported to a UFO agency in Seattle.

• Yuba City, Calif. - Independent-Herald (March 14, 1977):
• "UFO sightings reported again" notes that bright orange lights were seen over Yuba County, described as two bright orange lights with a dark red light in the middle. Beale AFB authorities had no information, but PG&E reported a transformer blowing up in the area.

• Edmonson News (Brownsville, Ky., March 24, 1977):
• "UFO Sighting An Experience" by Roger Basham describes seeing a V-shaped object with white lights underneath traveling eastward. A bright glow was visible after its disappearance.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout these articles is the widespread reporting of unidentified flying objects and mysterious lights in the sky during March 1977. The articles generally present witness accounts and official responses, often highlighting the lack of definitive explanations from authorities like the FAA, NASA, and military branches. While some articles lean towards skepticism or offer conventional explanations (meteors, satellites, aircraft), others present the accounts with a sense of mystery and wonder, suggesting the possibility of unknown phenomena. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on public interest and unexplained events, without taking a definitive position for or against the existence of UFOs as extraterrestrial craft, though some sources like the Midwest UFO Headquarters express a belief in friendly "space visitors."

This issue of AEGIS magazine, dated March 10, 1977, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across the United States. The cover story, "Was The Mysterious 'Ball Of Fire' A UFO?", details an incident in Fawn Grove, Pennsylvania, where a large fiery object was observed, leaving behind a burnt patch of grass and three small holes.

Fawn Grove 'Ball of Fire' Incident

The article describes a mysterious event that occurred in Fawn Grove, Pennsylvania, on a Saturday night. Eyewitnesses, including Mrs. Everett Miller, reported seeing a large ball of fire in the sky for two to five minutes. The object illuminated the night sky and then disappeared as mysteriously as it arrived. Fire officials, like Captain Douglas Winward of the Citizens Volunteer Fire Company, initially suggested it was a meteor that landed and burned an area of approximately 50 square feet. However, this explanation was reportedly ruled out by other officials.

Robert D. Barry, director of the 20th Century UFO Bureau, suggested that the three small holes, about an inch and a half deep and spaced about five and a half feet apart, were indicative of a UFO landing. He stated that such depressions are typical of UFO landings found in fields across the United States. Barry also noted that Fawn Grove is near the Peach Bottom Nuclear Power Plant, and UFOs have been documented hovering over areas like atomic plants, military airfields, and naval bases.

The article contrasts the observed phenomenon with meteors, noting that meteors typically burn for only 16 seconds, whereas this object burned for at least two minutes and did not fall like a meteor but appeared to drift levelly. Other explanations, such as a thrown flammable object or something thrown from an airplane, were also considered and dismissed. Mrs. Miller reported hearing no airplane that night, and there were no other reports of aircraft overhead. The possibility of radioactivity was mentioned, with a Geiger counter not yet used to measure it. The only remaining evidence was the burnt ground and the three small holes.

UFOs or Power Lines Sparking?

This article reports on bright blue and white lights seen suspended in the sky early in the morning by Mr. and Mrs. Martin H. Schweitzer of LaFave Road. Charles G. Gray, area manager for Niagara Mohawk Power Corp., suggested that problems with snow-burdened transmission lines could have appeared as lights, but this did not fully explain the mystery. Mrs. Schweitzer described the lights as appearing like fireworks at times and noted they were too high to be towers. The Lewis County Sheriff's office received a similar report, which was determined to be caused by malfunctions at an electrical transformer station. Mr. Gray indicated that the power firm's Black River switching station was in the general direction of the sighting and that high and low towers, mountainous terrain, snow, reflections, and blue electrical sparks could have created an arch in the sky.

George A. Bonadio, a local astrologist, stated the appearance was not a star, as stars would move over many hours. He advised that witnesses should alert neighbors, check from various windows to rule out reflections, and look from outdoors. He also noted that snow, haze, and the moon's position can create illusions.

More UFO Sightings Reported

This section compiles several other UFO sightings from various locations:

• Reynoldsville, DuBois, Brookville, Sandy Township, Falls Creek and Big Run: Policeman Ralph August reported seeing a 'sausage-shaped' object emitting a steady flashing light while hovering over the Engle farm. Five eyewitnesses corroborated this. Residents in Falls Creek reported the object hovered for about half an hour, emitting a 'loud rushing noise'.

• Riverside, California: Deputy Jim Evans and partner Bob Boytor reported seeing 'a cigar with a light on each end' at 3:30 a.m. Two California Highway Patrol officers and seven March Air Force Base security guards also reported sightings. Descriptions varied in size, shape, and color. Ronald Cash, a grocery clerk, saw two bright objects with long white tails crossing the sky very fast.

• Farmington, Minnesota: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Benson reported a 'noiseless UFO' on Dodd Avenue, described as two parallel lights about 150 feet off the ground. The object appeared to have pontoons and a center, but no resemblance to a helicopter. It then shut off its lights and continued down the road with a red light.

• Pasadena, California: A pair of diamond-shaped objects trailing streams of blue fumes were seen dancing above Southern California skies. Seven March Air Force Base airmen, two Los Angeles County Sheriff's helicopter crewmen, and two California Highway Patrolmen witnessed the event. A scientist at Griffith Park Observatory suggested it might have been a rare astronomical phenomenon like double meteors.

UFO like 'lit cigar' reported at March

This article details a sighting by a Riverside County sheriff's deputy, Jim Evans, and his partner Bob Boytor, who described an object as 'a cigar with a light on each end' at 3:30 a.m. in Edgemont. Other sightings included two bright objects with long white tails seen by Ronald Cash, and two 'diamond-shaped objects glowing silver with a blue stream trailing behind' reported by March Air Force Base security guards. A scientist at Griffith Park Observatory suggested these could be rare astronomical phenomena like double meteors.

'UFOs' sighted over Southland

This report reiterates the sighting of a pair of diamond-shaped objects trailing streams of blue fumes over Southern California. It mentions witnesses including airmen from March Air Force Base, Los Angeles County Sheriff's helicopter crewmen, and California Highway Patrolmen. The objects were not detected by radar.

Double meteors' theory cited

This article discusses UFO sightings in Riverside, California, that were not detected by radar. Seven March Air Force Base security policemen, two Riverside County sheriff's deputies, and two California Highway Patrol officers reported seeing two bright lights. Air Force spokesman Joan Osaka stated that NORAD radar did not pick up any strange activity and that the Air Force would not investigate unless there was a threat to national security. Jack Nelson of the FAA's radar facility at Ontario International Airport confirmed that air traffic controllers did not notice any unusual activity. Dr. Edwin Krupp, an astronomer at Griffith Park Observatory, suggested the lights could have been double meteors, but could not confirm this without seeing the lights himself.

Widely seen UFOs undetected by radar

This article expands on the Riverside sightings, noting they were not detected by radar. It mentions that the Air Force stopped its UFO investigation in 1969. Dr. Edwin Krupp's theory of double meteors is presented as a possible explanation, though he acknowledges he did not witness the event.

Twins sight UFO

In Findlay, Ohio, 9-year-old twin sons of a junior high school teacher claimed to have seen a UFO in their backyard. They described it as a bright gold, circular object with points and balls, making a strange buzzing sound. Their father, Donald DeRodes, confirmed seeing a gold light that looked like it was over the Findlay airport.

People Are Saying...

This section reports on an alleged abduction experience in Kentucky. Three women claimed their car was stopped, and they were taken aboard a UFO and examined by 'humanoid beings.' They reportedly passed extensive lie detector tests. A consulting psychologist interviewed them under hypnosis, and they recalled details of being examined by four-foot-tall humanoids with dark eyes and gray skin. The Tucson-Based Aerial Phenomena Research Organization concluded the women were reliable.

UFO gives area residents a scare

This article from Laurens, Iowa, details sightings of a large, oval-shaped object with a reddish-orange glow. Jacqueline Stelter of Marathon described it as 'as big as a car' and noted it moved northward along the horizon. She also reported seeing a similar glow, greenish in color, further away on another night. Doug Burns and Kim Sunner also reported seeing a 'reddish-orange in color with light rays coming out of the sides' object that moved along the horizon.

UFO Sighting Apparently 'Just Meteor'

The State Civil Defense office in Tennessee reported being swamped with calls about an unidentified flying object. Descriptions included a bright ball of fire that left a trail of sparks and disappeared in a puff of smoke. Officials believed it to be a meteorite, citing calls to the UFO Center in Washington and the Kennedy Space Center, which had no reports of space garbage falling to earth.

UFOs Spotted Off Kings Road

In Shelby, North Carolina, Giles Shytle reported seeing two giant, wing-spanned objects sitting in the sky, hardly moving, with red, white, and blue flashing lights. He noted they made no noise and were afraid. He described them as 'like two giant box kites' and not shaped like saucers. The article mentions over 50 persons in the Shelby area have reported similar sightings over several years.

Local Scouts Spot UFO's

Two local cub scouts, Robby Tanner and Ken Spears, reported spotting a cone or diamond-shaped object with red, green, and blue lights over Lake Eustis. They described it as settling slowly, then shooting back up at an incredible speed. The object was described as having no sound and being very bright.

Southern California sees UFOs

This article, similar to others, reports on diamond-shaped objects trailing blue fumes seen over Southern California. Witnesses included airmen, sheriff's helicopter crewmen, and highway patrolmen. The objects were described as glowing silver with a blue stream and were observed for about 15 seconds. They did not show up on radar.

UFO? Mars? What Was Light Seen Out on Lake Michigan?

This article from Petoskey, Michigan, details sightings of a strange light over Lake Michigan. Witnesses included Jack and Betty Zaremski, Harbor Springs police officers Tim Watts and Al Reber, and Emmet County Sheriff's Deputy Don Arman. The object was described as a steady white beam or a red and amber light hovering. John Shepherd, a UFO researcher, suggested it might have been Mars, given the atmospheric conditions and earth's rotation. He also noted that UFOs can cause electromagnetic disturbances.

More Reports of Door-Co. UFOs

Sightings of unidentified flying objects were reported in Door County, Wisconsin. While some sightings might be explained by training maneuvers from the local airport, others were not. A spokesman noted that training planes would not normally be found as far north as the reported sightings.

Flying saucer spotted

A young man in Wyandotte, Michigan, reported seeing a flying saucer with flashing lights and a flickering red light on top. The object disappeared when he went inside to get binoculars. No other reports of unidentified flying objects had been filed.

'Streams of Blue'

This article reiterates the sighting of diamond-shaped objects trailing streams of blue over Southern California. It mentions that the objects were not detected by radar and that the Air Force had stopped its UFO investigation in 1969. Major Brian Daly is quoted as saying, "Beats the hell out of me... I wish I knew."

Six UFO Reports

Police in Yuba City, California, received six reports of an unidentified flying object. Wayne Dahling described the object as circular, honeycombed in texture, and drifting westward. It was between 3,000 and 4,000 feet in the air. Beale Air Force Base and Yuba County Airport had no information that could account for the object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across the United States in early 1977, the common descriptions of aerial objects (lights, balls of fire, diamond shapes, cigar shapes), and the frequent lack of conventional explanations. Many articles highlight eyewitness accounts and the bafflement of local authorities and officials. The magazine appears to present these reports factually, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also exploring potential scientific or astronomical explanations where offered. There is a clear emphasis on the mystery and the persistent occurrence of these phenomena, often noting the inability of radar to detect them and the official stance of agencies like the Air Force, which had largely ceased investigations.

This issue, dated March 1977, focuses on a collection of UFO sightings reported across various locations in the United States. The main headline, "UFO Sightings Continue But Not In Erie Area – Yet," suggests a widespread phenomenon. The publication includes detailed accounts from witnesses, law enforcement, and even military personnel, alongside speculative explanations and discussions about potential government involvement.

Key Articles and Reports

UFO sighted at Keokee and Big Stone Gap (Virginia)

Leon Sturgill of Keokee reported seeing a UFO in the spring of 1977 that appeared as a huge keyhole, a triangle with a circle, and was brilliant white and glowing. The object made no noise and moved into a cloud. Sturgill's account was corroborated by a Big Stone Gap police officer and other residents.

Washington Whispers: Chances Now for Tax Rebate... Official Word Coming On "UFO's"

This section hints at upcoming government disclosures about UFOs, suggesting a shift from past policies that downgraded such incidents. Information is expected from the CIA, potentially reversing official stances.

Many UFOs Seen (Southern California)

This report details a significant number of UFO sightings in Southern California over a nine-hour period on March 23, 1977. Police, sheriff's deputies, highway patrol, and Air Force guards reported mysterious bright lights that hovered, cruised, and zoomed across the skies over Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. A Los Angeles Sheriff's helicopter crew observed two lights that outpaced their helicopter.

UFOs leave three men up in the air (Apple Valley, California)

Three Kaiser workers and a commercial pilot reported seeing unidentified flying objects on March 23, 1977. Ruben Barajas described two bright, tubular objects that approached his car at high speed and then accelerated away, emitting a silver tail with a blue streak. Bill Lennington, a WWII pilot, reported seeing an object traveling at over 1,000 miles per hour that seemed to separate and disintegrate.

2 UFOs spotted by A.F. pilots (Fontana, California)

Seven March Air Force Base airmen reported seeing two gold and silver diamond-shaped objects traveling at high speeds on March 22, 1977. The objects left a blue stream and disappeared after 15 seconds. The Air Force stated it no longer investigates UFOs.

Disk-shaped objects seen hovering in county (Ventura County, California)

Reports from Ventura County and other Southern California locations on March 22-23, 1977, described mysterious bright lights hovering, cruising, and zooming. Witnesses included law enforcement officers and a dairy supervisor.

Sheriff's helicopter crew reports UFO near Industry (California)

An airborne sheriff's helicopter crew encountered a fast-moving unidentified flying object on March 22, 1977, near Industry. The object accelerated away at great speed. Other deputies reported seeing similar bright lights in the Firestone area.

'We fled for our lives' How one Calif. family survived a UFO attack (Colusa, California)

This article recounts the experience of the Bill Pecha family, who fled their home in Colusa after a UFO hovered menacingly near their house on the outskirts of town. The object, described as a ribbed dome about 140 feet wide, caused a power failure and acted threateningly. The family's account is supported by a local policeman who found Pecha to be a reliable witness.

Door-Co. Residents Sight UFO (Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin)

More than a dozen people in Door County reported seeing an "sausage or oblong-shaped," brightly colored object on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. Jim Richmond described seeing a bright star moving back and forth, which he later identified as a UFO. Other residents also reported similar sightings.

'Texas Trapezoid' Attracting UFOs? (Del Rio, Texas)

Barbara Petsch discusses the "Texas trapezoid" as a location for UFO sightings since 1974. She mentions a trapezoid shape inscribed on a boat storage building, which has reportedly led to increased air traffic over the area.

UFO Sightings Continue But Not In Erie Area – Yet (Erie, Pennsylvania)

This article features interviews with Erie Police Captain Walter Tofel, who dismisses UFOs as "phenomena." It also includes insights from Robert L. Cowell of the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research, who notes that many sightings are not reported and that the government may be investigating UFO reports.

UFO group reports weird sightings (Sebring, Ohio)

Reports of Bigfoot sightings and UFOs were shared at a Tri-County UFO Study group meeting. The group discussed research on Bigfoot and showed slides of ufology research.

'Orange Rascal' Mystery Still Growing (Hickory Creek, Texas)

This multi-part series details sightings of "orange lights" in Hickory Creek, Texas, occurring frequently between 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Witnesses describe the phenomenon as a bright orange glow that lands, hovers, and moves at high speeds. The article explores various explanations, including conventional aircraft, advanced technology, and the possibility of UFOs. It features accounts from Lynn Grisham, Larry Kohlenberg, and David Jack London.

Hawarden youth claims he saw flying saucer (Hawarden, Iowa)

A 16-year-old youth reported being followed by a "bright, reddish glow" on March 10, which he described as an airplane or weather balloon but without flashing lights. The object sped up and slowed down, and even appeared to turn corners.

Twins Back UFO Sighting With Sketches (Findlay, Ohio)

Two nine-year-old twins, Greg and Scott DeRodes, reported seeing a bright gold object producing a strange buzzing sound. They created similar sketches of the object, which had "legs all over it." A spokesman for the Findlay Airport reported no unusual air traffic at the time.

4 Macomb Residents Report Sky Traveler' (Macomb, Illinois)

Four Macomb residents reported seeing a bright greenish colored object moving across the sky. Local astronomers and weather services indicated that comet or meteor sightings were unlikely.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings across different regions of the United States, the descriptions of these objects (shapes, colors, behaviors), and the attempts to explain them. There's a consistent thread of witness accounts, often from ordinary citizens, but also involving law enforcement and military personnel. The magazine appears to present these reports factually, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also hinting at a potential shift in government transparency regarding UFOs. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-mindedness towards the phenomenon, encouraging investigation and reporting rather than outright dismissal.

This issue of the National Enquirer, dated April 5, 1977, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and encounters, presenting a collection of reports from various locations including India, Germany, Australia, and South Africa. The cover story details a dramatic near-miss incident involving an Alitalia DC-10 airliner and a massive, luminous unidentified flying object.

Main Cover Story: Gigantic UFO, Lights Blazing From Four Windows, Just Misses Airliner

The lead article recounts the experience of Captain Franco De Rosa of Alitalia Flight 777, who reported a close encounter with a gigantic UFO on July 22nd over central India. De Rosa, a veteran pilot, described the object as a "dirigible gondola" with four large windows, emitting intense, clear, white, and strong neon-like lights. The UFO reportedly descended and crossed the path of the DC-10 at an altitude of 35,000 feet, passing only 200 feet above the aircraft. De Rosa stated the UFO appeared to be traveling at twice the speed of his jetliner and was significantly larger. He initially thought it was a bus. The incident was witnessed by two other crew members. De Rosa, who previously did not believe in UFOs, filed an official report with Alitalia and is now convinced of their existence. Alitalia spokesman Vincenzo Roversi confirmed that the three pilots involved have excellent records and their account is not doubted.

Related Reports and Commentary

Accompanying the main story, a report from The Toronto Star Canada on March 5, 1977, notes that 53% of adult Canadians believe in UFOs, citing astronomer Alan Hyneck. However, it also includes the skeptical view of Philip J. Klass, an engineer and writer, who states he has found no evidence of UFOs from outer space, suggesting they originate from the viewer's imagination.

Rural Hawarden Man Is Followed By "U.F.O."

This article from the Hawarden Independent (March 10, 1977) details a sighting by 16-year-old Doug Wilkens of rural Hawarden, Iowa. On a Sunday night, Wilkens reported being followed by a "bright, reddish glow" while driving home. He initially mistook it for an airplane or weather balloon but noted its unusual speed and ability to match his movements, including taking curves. The object eventually stopped over a field near his home, appearing as a "big spotlight" about a mile away and grapefruit-sized at a distance. Wilkens observed it through a rifle scope, describing a bright center and dimmer edges, resembling a cross. Elwood Bolster, an investigator for NICAP, commented that similar incidents have occurred and that thousands of UFO reports remain unexplained annually.

Spellbinding UFOs

An article from the Des Moines Register (April 4, 1977) discusses the persistent public interest in UFOs, eight years after the Condon report suggested further study was unjustified. Despite the Condon report and the Air Force's Project Bluebook (which investigated 12,618 reports and found natural explanations for all but 701), belief in UFOs continues. A questionnaire sent to the American Astronomical Society revealed that 80% of respondents thought UFOs deserve further study, indicating that the subject remains a point of fascination and debate.

UFO's over Hannibal

A brief report from the Quincy Herald-Whig-Ill. (April 13, 1977) clarifies a sighting of two "UFOs" over Hannibal, Missouri. Police determined that the brightly-glowing green lights were actually two chemical flares suspended from a kite, designed to appear as if chasing each other.

Mysterious Sky Objects - Lake Victoria, Australia

This section includes two articles, one from Badische Neueste Nachrichten, Germany (February 5, 1977), and a translation titled "MYSTERIOUS SKY OBJECTS" from an unspecified German source. Reports describe a mysterious "sky object" that caused waves and the simultaneous appearance of a new island in Lake Victoria, Australia. Witnesses reported seeing a "yellow fireball with a long, greenish tail" over the lake, followed by an "explosion" and the emergence of a mud island emitting steam. Geologists, astronomers, and scientists are investigating the phenomenon, considering possibilities such as a meteor, satellite debris, or an extraterrestrial event. Some locals have theorized that Lake Victoria might be a landing site for extraterrestrials.

UFO Incidents in Germany

Several reports from German publications detail UFO activity:

• "DID A UFO LAND IN A HOUSE?" (BILD News Service, February 24, 1977): An object reportedly came through the roofs and exploded in a house in Oberursel, creating a hole. Police found a piece of metal resembling an airplane brake drum, but Lufthansa stated no aircraft were in the area.
• "UFOs über dem Bodensee: Acht Menschen haben sie gesehen" (BILD Newspaper, March 2, 1977): Two UFOs were reportedly seen by eight people near Lake Bodensee. Herr Schaffler claimed to have seen two "objects making a ringing noise" descend rapidly, causing him to cry for help and jump through a glass window in fright. Other witnesses also reported seeing and hearing the objects.

UFO-Alarm in Australien

This report from the Heidelberger Daily News (February 6, 1977) reiterates the Lake Victoria incident, describing a "fiery ball" falling into the ocean, causing the earth to "shiver," followed by an explosion, a large wave, and the appearance of a "mud island" emitting steam. Underwater commandos are reportedly searching for the "body from the UFO."

U.F.O. OVER GRAKPΡΑΝ

An article from the Brakpan Herald (January 7, 1977) describes a sighting by four people in Brakpan, South Africa, of an unidentified flying object resembling a "big double star" that appeared and disappeared in the sky. The object was observed to move up and down and separate and rejoin. A local pilot also reported seeing a similar object. The weather bureau suggested the objects could have been high-altitude weather balloons.

Always a comment on UFOs

This "Viewpoint" piece from The Sunday Times - Australia (March 1977) features a letter from W. Barton Daglish, a member of the Perth UFO Research Group. Daglish responds to a previous article about UFO sightings, defending the witnesses' accounts and questioning why skeptical explanations are always favored. He argues that UFOs should be considered real if they are, and tantalizing even if they are not.

LES O.V.Ν.Ι. DE BISCAYE LAISSENT DES TRACES

This report from Quest Newspaper - France (March 25, 1977), with an English translation, details the discovery of over eighty "tracks" attributed to UFO landings in the Spanish province of Biscaye. Witnesses reported hearing noises and seeing strange lights. A technical manager from Bilbao claimed to have seen a "queer object shaped like a mushroom" rise at high speed from the area. The tracks are described as being in circle-shaped patterns with varying radii.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, close encounters, and unexplained aerial phenomena. The publication appears to lean towards presenting witness testimonies and intriguing accounts, with a notable emphasis on the dramatic and the potentially sensational, as is characteristic of the National Enquirer. While some articles include skeptical viewpoints or natural explanations, the overall tone favors the mystery and possibility of extraterrestrial visitation, particularly highlighted by the cover story's compelling pilot testimony. The inclusion of reports from various international sources suggests a broad interest in the global UFO phenomenon during this period.