APCIC - Vol 03 No 05 - 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue of the AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER, dated May 1978, is Volume Three, Number 5. The cover features a graphic illustration of a pile of newspapers from various international locations, with a UFO hovering above, suggesting a global scope of UFO reporting. The center is located at P.O. Box 9073, Cleveland, Ohio 44137.

Staff and Correspondents

The publication lists its editorial staff, including Harry R. Cohen as editor, S. Mac Williams as assistant editor, and Ron Smotek for photo analysis. Richard Smotek is credited with 'supplement' research. A team of foreign correspondents contributes from various countries: G. Roncoroni from Argentina, Jeff Bell from Australia, George Hume from West Australia, H.C. Petersen from Denmark, Jean Sider from France, M. Mori from Japan, Clypeus from Italy, S. Gerceksever from Turkey, Werner Walter from West Germany, and H. Gontovnick from UFO Canada.

Featured Articles and Reports

'Close encounters' with UFOs are big news in Brazil (New York, N.Y. News World, March 22, 1978)

This article by Michael Roth reports on widespread UFO sightings in Brazil, with front-page coverage in leading daily newspapers. Thousands claimed to have seen flying saucers over Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro on March 13, 1978. Radar at Campo dos Afonsos detected mysterious objects, which emitted yellow and blue luminous signals. Witnesses reported seeing 'brightly-colored, cigar-shaped objects' in Rio de Janeiro. An American man was reported to have photographed the visitors. The article also mentions a sighting over the Serra da Cantareira and reports of a circular craft touching down at Congonhas Airport in Sao Paulo. Radar screens in Brasilia and Manaus picked up unidentified signals. The report notes that Soviet cosmonaut Georgi Grechko denied seeing UFOs. It also references earlier sightings in northern Chile and tension in Limeira, Sao Paulo, due to sightings.

More Reports Confirm Strange Craft In Placer Area (Auburn, Cal. Journal, March 1, 1978)

This article by Reed Fujil details multiple reports of an unidentified flying object over Loomis, California. Brian Metcalfe, an FAA air traffic controller, described a 'delta shaped' object with two bright lights. Terry Carr-Hall of Loomis reported seeing two extremely bright lights, like floodlights, and small red lights underneath. Mary Cuneo and her son Mike spotted a triangular object over Auburn. Grazinano Del Col saw two lights that were 'out of the ordinary'. Ted Smith, Chief Placer County Probation Officer, also saw a triangular object with lights on the base.

Brilliant Flash Lights Night Skies (Oceanside, Cal. Blade-Tribune, March 21, 1978)

This report by Dan Morain describes a three to five-second flash of light seen across the county, with a blue-green tint, followed by a loud boom. Astronomers at Palomar Observatory and officials at Miramar Naval Air Base were unsure of the origin, suggesting it could be a meteor or 'space debris'. Some witnesses reported seeing 'objects' in the vicinity of the flash, described as 'a plate with cups' or an 'elongated object'.

MILD UFO FLAP IN YORK AREA? (York, Pa. Post-Standard, April 4, 1978)

Local researcher Robert D. Barry reports an unusual number of sightings in York County. Robert S. Hake described a 'round or oval shape' craft with winglike protrusions and a tail structure, unlike other reports. The craft emitted a 'combination of a large fan, plus a whirring and humming' sound. The article notes that many sightings are made by people who previously were skeptics.

Unidentified Objects Sighted (Arcade, N.Y. Times, March 22, 1978)

Six members of the Cattaraugus Sheriff's Department reported seeing two unidentified flying objects in the Great Valley area, one red and blue, the other green and white. The objects hovered for about ten minutes before disappearing.

DID THIS UFO VISIT SANFORD? Some Finally Talk, They Saw A UFO (Sanford, Fla. Herald, April 7, 1978)

This article by Norm Oshrin details a sighting by Vicki Bryant and her friend Melody Kennedy near Sanford. They described a noiseless, oblong object, about the size of a football field, with white lights and one big blinking light. It hovered over a cemetery for three to four minutes. The report also mentions a similar sighting by Elaine Chapman. A separate report from Bryan, Ohio (April 13, 1978) mentions the Williams County sheriff's department receiving a call about an unidentified object with red and blue lights flashing.

Noiseless UFO Witnessed By Officers, Man in Temple (Milwaukee Journal, April 11, 1978)

Gary Castleberry and six Temple police officers reported seeing an unidentified flying object in Temple, Texas. It was described as airplane-sized but not in shape, making no noise, and having two pulsating lights. Police stated it did not move like an airplane.

Encounter, Or Illusion? (Syracuse, N.Y. Post-Standard, April 7, 1978)

Mrs. Linda Kiteveles and her family reported seeing a saucer-shaped object hovering over the Warners area, emitting green, yellow, blue, and red lights. The sighting occurred shortly before 11 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 1978. The power outage in the area was confirmed by Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. and NYSEG, attributed to a damaged insulator. An airport tower supervisor recalled a 'blip' on the radar but did not log it as unusual. Sightings were also reported in the Jordan-Elbridge area.

Sighting Of UFO (Ruston, La. Daily Leader, Feb 22, 1978)

This report details an official and eyewitness account of a sighting near Choudrant, Louisiana. Mrs. Jimmy Barrett and her children saw about 20 large bright white lights in a 'V' formation, moving east to west, with some lights dimming and accelerating. The object made no noise and was seen at a high altitude.

Local and Regional (St. Paul Pioneer Press, April 1, 1978)

An investigation was underway into unidentified flying objects sighted northeast of St. Paul, Minnesota. Sighters ruled out natural or man-made devices and described the object as battleship-size with red lights. Reports came from educated people, including conditioned skeptics, with over 40 persons reporting the sighting.

Rash of UFOS spotted, including a Bronte sighting (Oakville Journal, March 8, 1978)

This article by Douglas Sweet reports on unidentified flying objects seen across southern Ontario. Two Oakville youths reported an oval-shaped object hovering over Lake Ontario, confirmed by another youth. Tom Grey, head of the Northeastern UFO Organization, stated he had never seen so many widespread sightings at one time, spanning about 25 years of study. Reports came from Windsor, Collingwood, Chatham, Georgian Bay, Wasaga Beach, Canadian Forces Base Borden, and Cobourg. A Canadian Press report from Chatham described a white oval object with a bluish rim. Television interference was also reported in the Chatham area.

UFO Claimed Wreck Cause (Ruston, La. Daily Reader, March 20, 1978)

Louisiana State Police investigated two accidents, one of which was reportedly caused by a UFO. Charles E. Green, a city employee, stated he was fleeing a 'big ball of light' when he lost control of his vehicle and struck a utility pole. Kenneth T. Thompson was involved in a separate two-vehicle accident.

This Must Be Cobourg (Cobourg Daily Star, March 7, 1978)

Two men, George Wilson and Merrill Crowe, reported seeing a bright light with no beam in the sky, described as a bluish white hue, which elongated and disappeared. They are convinced they saw an Unidentified Flying Object. A Lindsay OPP officer also filed a report on a similar light.

Book Reviews and Listings

The issue includes a section listing "NEW HARDCOVER BOOKS" and "NEW PAPERBACK UFC BOOKS". Titles include "ANCIENT MAN: A HANDBOOK OF PUZZLING ARTIFACTS", "THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF PROPHECY", "THE SHROUD OF TURIN", "THE CRACK IN THE UNIVERSE", "THE WORLD OF UFOs", "THE WORLD'S LAST MYSTERIES", and "CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT KELLY AND OTHERS OF 1955".

Another section lists "BOOKLETS", including "THE HARRY MAN OF SOUTH EASTERN AUSTRALIA".

Notices

An "ADVANCE CONVENTION INFORMATION" notice details a convention scheduled for July 28, 29, 30, 1978, at the Dayton Convention Center, Ohio, hosted by THE OHIO UFO INVESTIGATORS LEAGUE, INC. Prices for sessions and advance registration are listed, along with hotel information and details for a press conference and MUFON meeting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the prevalence and increasing number of UFO sightings reported globally, with a particular emphasis on recent events in Brazil. The publication acts as a clearinghouse for these reports, compiling information from various newspapers and sources. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena, presenting witness accounts and official reports without immediate dismissal. The inclusion of book reviews and convention announcements suggests an active community involved in UFO research. The "EDITOR'S NOTE" expresses gratitude to customers and highlights the expansion of their clipping service to include more international reports, aiming to provide a better picture of the UFO phenomenon worldwide.

This issue, dated April 6, 1978, from The Evening Sun, focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena. The main cover story, "Identified UFO spotter sorry," details the experience of Dennis Kiteveles, who reported a UFO sighting and subsequently regretted going public due to media attention.

"Identified UFO spotter sorry" by Ted Cilwick

Dennis Kiteveles, a civilian employee of the Baldwinsville police department, reported seeing an oval-shaped object with flashing colored lights hovering about 2,500 feet above his home on Wednesday night. His wife observed a small passenger plane pass beneath the mysterious craft. During the sighting, the Kiteveles' home power went out for about 10 minutes. Niagara Mohawk Power Co. confirmed the interruption in service, but officials had no explanation. The Onondaga Sheriff's Department investigated, and a deputy reconstructed the events. However, Federal Aviation Authorities at nearby Hancock Airport, represented by tower chief Robert Adams, were unimpressed, stating they had nothing to investigate and suggesting that any radar blips could be caused by trucks or weather inversions. Despite his frustration, Kiteveles insisted it was not a plane and expressed regret for mentioning the incident.

"now that he went public" (continuation of Kiteveles story)

Mrs. Kiteveles noticed a commercial passenger plane pass under the object, and Hancock Airport confirmed a landing. Despite her husband's desire to stay indoors, he went out to get a better look, and the craft disappeared. After Kiteveles reported the incident, the Sheriff's Department launched a helicopter, and deputies reported a brief flash of white light in a wooded area. The investigation was turned over to the FAA, but no FAA screens registered the object. Mr. Adams theorized that any radar returns could be from trucks on I-81 or due to temperature inversions. The FAA would not follow up on the sighting. Kiteveles remained frustrated, stating, "I know it wasn't a plane," and apologized for mentioning it due to the numerous media calls.

"Bright Lights, Weird Sound- Countian Now A UFO Believer" by Robert S. Hake

Robert S. Hake of Red Lion, PA, who previously did not believe in UFOs, became a believer after witnessing an unidentified flying object on Friday morning. He claims the object dipped as low as 100 feet above him near Haines Road and Eastern Boulevard. Hake described the object as oval-shaped with a tail and several prongs, emitting a loud, whirring sound likened to a vacuum cleaner. He followed the craft as it moved northeast until it disappeared near Stony Brook Drive-in Theater. Hake later encountered borough policeman James Tressler, who reported sighting a similar object over Red Lion around midnight.

Other Sightings and Reports

Several other articles detail various UFO sightings from different locations and dates in April 1978:

• Edmore, Michigan (April 1, 1978): "Digger" Shovelle, a potato farmer, reported discovering a UFO landing site in his potato field. He described eerie flashing lights and a whirling, whishing sound, and saw several round discs hovering. He was ready for their return, mentioning a "Welcome to Our World Wagon."
• Vineland, New Jersey (March 29, 1978): Bridgeton police dispatcher Leo Rock received a report of a UFO with two bright red lights moving easterly. Officer John Mazzeo investigated and initially thought it was a radio tower before the lights moved. He followed the object to Alliance Beach. The sighting was also reported by people in Bridgeton and Millville. Police Chief Joseph P. Cassisi stated that Officer Mazzeo is a "reliable officer." Inquiries to McGuire Air Force Base revealed no weather balloons. The UFO Center in Chicago would be contacted.
• Strinestown, Pennsylvania (April 3, 1978): Wayne and Norma Smith reported seeing an Unidentified Flying Object hovering over their car near Strinestown. They described it as having antennae and a demarcation line between two large round domes, with red and white lights and a pulsating sound. The craft appeared to follow their car as they reversed.
• Culiacan, Mexico (April 16, 1978): Three farmers reported seeing a round disk that gave off a green-copperish light and a roaring sound land in their fields.
• Enfield, Connecticut (April 12, 1978): Nadine Theofiles described seeing an object like a "seed or the yolk of an egg," orange-yellow with light rays, tilted off horizontal, moving north. Meteorologists suggested unusual sunlight reflections, while Windsor police suggested a kite string. Hartford and Windsor police received over 50 calls about the object. Arthur Parsont found what appeared to be a fishing line stretched between trees.
• Charleston, West Virginia (April 11, 1978): Area police received reports of a mysterious object blazing across the sky and exploding. Witnesses described seeing four balls of light. Authorities investigated but found no conclusive evidence.
• Arroyo Grande, California (March 30, 1978): Mayor Mark Millis and others witnessed a brightly-lit, low-flying unidentified object described as triangular, moving slowly, and appearing to hover. Its size was estimated to be nearly that of a Boeing aircraft.
• Aulander, North Carolina (March 18, 1978): Police and firemen spotted a UFO. A search found a burned-out area in a field, possibly from a flare. Speculation included passing airplanes or military flares.
• Lewisburg, West Virginia (April 11, 1978): James Burgess reported seeing a "huge fireball with a long tail" moving silently from north to south.
• Basin, Wyoming (March 30, 1978): Dozens of people reported seeing a dull, luminous cylinder hovering over the grounds east of a golf course. Witnesses confirmed its presence and movement.
• Irvine, Kentucky (March 2, 1978): Kentucky State Trooper Jim Whitaker and another witness reported seeing a bright, shifting-colored object hovering, with no noise or exhaust. It appeared to have a floating motion.
• Waterloo, Ontario, Canada (March 10, 1978): Two men reported seeing a large yellow light moving slowly with sparks dropping from it.
• Kitchener, Ontario, Canada (March 14, 1978): Two reports of UFO sightings were received by the Cambridge UFO Research Group. One involved a large, dull, orange light hovering and moving erratically. Another involved a large white light with sparks falling from it.
• Kingsville, Ontario, Canada (Undated): A woman and her son claimed contact with alien beings after seeing a luminous object. They experienced unexplained physical after-effects. Another report involved three brothers who claimed telepathic communication with aliens.
• San Luis Obispo, California (March 17, 1978): Dozens of people reported seeing a lighted, slow-moving object described as triangular or disk-shaped, with low-noise engine sound.
• Shemya Island, Alaska (February 16, 1978): An Air Force airman reported seeing five round, glowing objects that moved at incredible speed, coinciding with an earth tremor and radar anomalies. The Air Force later concluded the lights were planets and radar returns were due to high waves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these reports are the visual descriptions of the objects (lights, shapes, colors), their silent or unusual sounds, and their unusual movements (hovering, rapid acceleration, erratic patterns). Many reports involve multiple witnesses, lending credibility to the sightings. Official responses range from dismissiveness (FAA) to cautious investigation (local police, sheriff's departments) with explanations often leaning towards conventional aircraft, natural phenomena, or even misidentification. The articles generally present the witness accounts without overt skepticism, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions, though some official statements attempt to rationalize the events. The overall stance appears to be one of documenting these unusual occurrences and the public's reaction to them.

This issue of the magazine, dated April 11, 1978, focuses on UFO sightings and expert opinions, with the cover story titled "Experts claim 'Thing' in sky meteor, not UFO." The publication features a collection of reports from various locations in the USA and Canada, detailing witness accounts of strange aerial phenomena.

Cover Story: 'Thing' in the Sky - Meteor or UFO?

The main article by Corinne Antley of TNT Education Writer discusses an incident where a "huge 'phosphorescent' object" was seen by Glenn Davis in Darlington, Pennsylvania. Davis described it as a "big green ball with red flame shooting out the back going really, really fast." Gabby Waite, proprietor of Gabby's LaScala Restaurant & Lounge, also reported seeing the object. However, a trooper from the Chippewa Township barracks of Pennsylvania State Police and an astronomer from Youngstown State University suggested it was "nothing more than a meteor."

Dr. Warren Young, an astronomer at YSU, stated that based on descriptions, it was "probably the kind of meteor called a boloid." Trooper Bill Arthrell from the state police barracks corroborated this, describing a "bright green" object with flames shooting out the back that they saw for about five seconds. He emphasized it was "no flying saucer" and "no strange little men came out of it or anything," but admitted, "it was the prettiest thing I ever saw."

Brampton Daily Times - Strange Dancing Lights Reported In Winter Sky

This article from March 8, 1978, reports on numerous sightings of "strange dancing lights" in the winter sky across Ontario, Canada, including Brampton, Windsor, Barrie, and Cobourg. Tom Grey of the North-Easter UFO Organization stated that residents reported seeing an "unidentified flying object." Four residents in the Wiarton area reported seeing a "ball of fire" twice. Chris Rogers from the University of Toronto's Dunlop Observatory suggested a natural phenomenon known as a "fireball." In Windsor, over 20 people reported seeing an "unidentified flying object." Descriptions ranged from red and yellow to blue and green. Steve Walsh, an editor with the Chatham Daily News, described seeing a "brilliant white light" traveling fast and appearing to be below treetop level. A spokesman at Windsor airport confirmed no aircraft distress reports and stated it was unlikely to be a weather balloon.

Wichita Beacon - Coffeyville Visitor Says He Created UFO

This article from March 18, 1978, details a prank where a man, identifying himself as "The Goon," claimed responsibility for a UFO sighting in Coffeyville, Kansas. He told a radio DJ that he tied a highway flare to a weather balloon to create excitement. Authorities received about 30 calls about an object glowing "red as a stoplight" high in the sky. The Coffeyville Assistant Police Chief Otto Ivy believed the whole thing was a hoax.

Sunday UFO Sightings Mount

This section compiles several reports:

• Antioch, California: Dorothy Gray reported seeing an "extraordinarily bright light with maybe a tinge of green" on Sunday night. She described it as a "low-flying, commercial airplane" but with no noise and going too fast, with a "vapor trail at the back." She thought it was a "flying saucer."
• Phenomena Research UFO Reporting Center: Jacob Davidson, an assistant director, corroborated claims of other objects seen at other times on Sunday and noted that many callers were told by agencies that they had received numerous UFO calls.

Creatures 'tested' women

This article from Liberty, Kentucky, dated April 13, 1978, discusses 20th Century Fox Studios filming a documentary segment featuring three Liberty women and their UFO sighting from two years prior. Mona C. Stafford, Elaine Thomas, and Louise Smith were interviewed. Stafford recounts being taken aboard a "space craft" and "tested," not examined, for the future and for things to come. She states the incident happened on her birthday and that she has lived in fear since January 6, 1976. She moved to Stanford, believing she was meant to be there, and expressed concern about people trying to profit from her story.

Edwardsburg, Michigan Argus - UFO sighting's no joke for two Dowagiac youths

George Florian and Chuckie Smith, both 13, reported seeing an "Unidentified Flying Object (UFO)" on Saturday night at 9:12 p.m. in Dowagiac, Michigan. They described "two hazy lights" that "looked like two balls" which merged into "one, hazy ball of light." The object moved from left to right, stopped, faded in and out, and then moved back. They reported it to the Dowagiac Police Department. The police suggested it might be from an antenna or an aircraft. The boys discounted the airplane theory, stating they had seen aircraft lights before and this was different. Florian's mother was also called to see the object but refused. Florian stated, "I do believe in what I see. And I think we saw a UFO."

Uhrichsville, Ohio Chronicle - UFO Spotted Second Time

This report from April 12, 1978, mentions a UFO described as "six times larger and brighter than a star" reported to sheriff's deputies. The object reportedly moved up and down, appearing and disappearing every 15-20 minutes. The caller had spotted the same object the previous week. The article also notes other unrelated incidents in the area, including vandalism and a transformer being shot out.

West Pittsburg encounter called credible UFO tale

This article from April 4, 1978, discusses a "close encounter" with "unidentified creatures from a saucer-shaped object" in West Pittsburg by three boys in May of the previous year. The Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, Illinois, directed by J. Allen Hynek, considers it one of three credible cases reported in the U.S. that year. The boys reported seeing bright red lights and a blue light from a flat, round object. Three humanoid creatures described as "walked like robots," black, with no faces, emerged from the object. A Contra Costa County Sheriff's deputy stated the boys gave the same story and offered to take a lie detector test. Investigators found no physical evidence.

Lebanon, VA. News - Strange Light Spotted Near Lebanon

This report from April 12, 1978, details a sighting by a four-man crew of the Lebanon Unit of the Russell County Rescue Squad of a "strange flying light" in Russell County early Monday morning. They described it as "a big ball of bright, shimmering light that seemed to float thru the air and finally just break up into small lights and disappear." They agreed that at no time was there any sign of rising or falling by the object. Authorities also received calls from other persons reporting similar sightings.

Norwich, Conn. Bulletin - Residents of Montville Report UFO Sightings

This article from April 8, 1978, reports that in the past seven days, five people in Montville, Connecticut, telephoned The Bulletin with similar reports of an "unidentified flying object (UFO)" hovering near Rte. 52. Sightings were reported near the Mohegan-Pequot Bridge. Mrs. Gladys Johnston reported her 10-year-old daughter saw a "flying saucer" hovering outside her window. Mrs. Johnston described it as "round and had lights. It hovered for a few seconds and moved away." Shortly after the object appeared, the lights in the second floor of the Johnston home went off, while the downstairs lights remained on. The family's dog also reacted strangely. Officer Michael J. Cooney investigated and stated, "She definitely saw something and it wasn't an airplane."

York, PA. Daily Record - UFO Spotted By Residents

This report from March 30, 1978, states that the Fairmont - Morgantown area was visited by an "unidentified flying object" described as being the approximate size of a football field and circular in shape. It flew low to the ground and moved in a counter-clockwise whirling pattern. Employees at the Fairmont Box factory saw the UFO at about 8 p.m. Witnesses described it as "huge - about as big as a football field." The object was also sighted in Whitehall. The report mentions that the craft was possibly a plane hired for advertising, but witnesses stated it was too big to be a plane.

Pascagoula, Miss. Press - Couple reports UFO sighting

This article from March 24, 1978, details a sighting by Kenneth and Patricia Atwell of an "unidentified flying object" about 8 p.m. Thursday over their home. They described it as "really bright and huge," estimated to be 200 to 300 feet above the ground, and making no sound. Mrs. Atwell stated it was "not an airplane or helicopter" and had red and white lights that alternated. The object was moving west at a rapid rate of speed.

Algonac, Mich. Courier Journal - More UFOs sighted; they're green, orange

This report from March 15, 1978, covers sightings of "unusual lights" in the sky. A Richmond resident reported seeing a "greenish, cigar shaped object" that proceeded horizontally across the sky and disappeared. Park rangers at Metropolitan Beach reported a "cone-shaped green and yellow object" flying past the park administration building. The New Baltimore and Romeo State Police received calls about a "pulsating orange column" over the Marysville, St. Clair, and Sarnia areas. Officials suggested it was a burn-off in Chemical Valley reflecting off ice crystals, but Trooper Douglas Wheeler disagreed, stating he had never seen anything like it before.

Leamington Post, Canada - Those UFOs again

This article from March 15, 1978, states that the Essex County skies were filled with "unidentified flying objects" the previous week. Most sightings occurred between 7 and 8 p.m. on March 6, with people spotting a "glowing ball in the sky." Descriptions varied, but everyone agreed they had seen something unusual. Deputy Reeve Bob Hatt and Councillor John Adams admitted they had seen a UFO.

Lindstrom, Minn. Press - UFO sighting checked by dispatcher at airport

This report from April 5, 1978, details a sighting by 13-year-old Dan Pedrys of "red lights moving above the treeline" about 500 feet from his house. He described it as "just as big as a 747 but there's no sound." Ron Pedrys called the sheriff's dispatcher. The dispatcher mentioned receiving another call about a "747 or large jet low and in trouble." The dispatcher later reported that Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport had no planes in the area and that five helicopters were landing.

Bartlesville, Okla. Enterprise - UFOs in Dufferin

This report from March 18, 1978, mentions a "large red object" seen floating south into Oklahoma. Some speculated it was a high-flying weather balloon, but there were no reports of sightings in northeast Oklahoma.

Hartford, Conn. Courant - UFO Sightings Tied To String's Reflection

This article from April 12, 1978, offers an explanation for numerous UFO reports in Hartford, Connecticut: reflections caused by a piece of string or fishing line found hanging between two trees. Hartford police received over 50 calls about an object described as "round and lighted, with a rod going through it." Windsor police sent officers to the scene but saw only a helicopter leaving the area. Sgt. Richard Jones of the Windsor Police Department checked the area and found what looked like fishing line or kite string. An official from Westover Air Force Base stated they had no information concerning the sighting.

Dumfries, VA. News - UFO? Dumfries family reports seeing strange flying object

This report from April 10, 1978, features Geneva Redder's account of seeing a "noiseless, round aircraft with red lights on it" fly over her brother-in-law's home at a high rate of speed on Saturday night. Simultaneously, a Dundalk, Md., man reported a "contrail vapor and some type of object" disappearing southwest. Redder described three blinking red lights and a flat, round object with lights on either side and a bright light on the front. She noted it ascended "extremely fast" and that "three facts disturbed all of us."

New Haven Journal - Close Encounter? Maybe Yes And No

This article from April 13, 1978, discusses a reported UFO sighting near Hartford, Connecticut, on Monday. Dick Nycz, an investigator for the Center of UFO Studies, suggests it was likely a meteorite or "some type of space debris." State Police described the object as a "bright line with a slight arc" that was traveling very fast. Nycz stated that while meteors are usually seen at night, it's possible to see one during the day. He would like to hear from more people who saw the object.

Lindstrom, Minn. Press - Close encounter of second kind is investigated

This report from April 5, 1978, details an investigation into areas near Bone Lake that reported "near touchdown" of a UFO sighted on March 22. Environmental samples were collected. Bradley Ayers, the Center's regional U.F.O. investigator, stated, "We do not have good physical traces, but are not going to discount the possibility." He emphasized there was no reported actual touchdown and that the investigation focused on locations where residents felt the area had somehow unnaturally changed after the UFO incident.

Woodland, Wash. News - UFO reported in Woodland

This report from March 30, 1978, describes a UFO in the shape of a fireball spotted by at least four people. It was described as traveling southeasterly and looking like a "suspicious fireball." Mrs. M.L. Nichols initially thought it was an airplane but then saw it was red, oblong, and emitting smoke. Her husband flew over the area but found no clues. The fireball could have been caused by an acetylene tank exploding in a former garbage dump area.

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Journal - UFO report checked

This article from April 5, 1978, mentions investigators studying reports of an "unidentified, cylindrical object" sighted over a residential area near Welland, Ontario. Three people reported seeing it on Sunday, describing flashing colored lights and a bluish glow. Investigators with Project SUM were high school and university students.

Auburn, N.Y. Citizen - UFO sighting reported

This report from April 9, 1978, states that State Police received a report of an "UFO (Unidentified Flying Object)" sighting between 7:15 and 9 p.m. Friday at the intersection of Grant Avenue Road and Jericho Road. The report could not be verified as it was reported two hours later.

Elm Grove, Wis. Leaves - UFO sighted?

This report from March 23, 1978, mentions reports of an "unusual Unidentified Flying Object" sighted between 9 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday night near the WTMJ radio towers. Several cars were stopped along Interstate 94 to observe it. The Waukesha County Sheriff's Department and Brookfield Police Department had no information.

York, PA. Dispatch - DOES UFO LIKE YORK COUNTY?

This article from April 3, 1978, reports several sightings of an "unidentified flying object" in York County. Mrs. Norma Smith described a "big, round object" looming up in front of her car, about 100 feet above the ground, making a pulsating sound with three red lights at the back. The craft tilted toward them, beaming a bright light. Smith recalled the craft had wires like antennae and small wheels. The noise got louder as it rose and moved off.

Santa Rosa, Cal. Democrat - Authorities can't explain strange Sunday sighting

This article from April 11, 1978, discusses a "white, round object" that flashed across the sky about 7:30 p.m. Sunday, which remained unexplained. The Sonoma County sheriff's office received a call, and an ex-Air Force serviceman reported an identical sighting. The UFO Center in southern California also received a similar report for Saturday evening. The object was described as round with a tail, white in color, and moving slower than a jet.

Santa Ana, Cal. Register - Luminous Object Streaks Over OC

This report from March 21, 1978, describes an "aluminous object in the sky" that crossed Tustin, California, from east to west about 9:45 p.m. Monday. Citizens described it as a "huge lighting of the sky" and "a red fireball emitting sparks." One observer estimated the object remained in view for about two seconds. Police relayed the information to the Marine Corps helicopter station, which stated the object was not related to any military exercises. Marguerita Ottobre sighted the object above trees and described it as having a "white glow surrounding a red center." Her car radio went dead just before she saw the object and came back on after it disappeared.

Royal Oak, Mich. Tribune - Ferndale Resident Sees 'UFO'

This article from April 1, 1978, features Allie Brooks of Ferndale who saw an object overhead about 9:30 p.m. Friday. Brooks described it as "bullet-shaped with a wide wingspan and a chopped-off tail," with white, blue, and red lights. His television set acted up, and he saw the object traveling easterly at a slow speed. He thought it might be a helicopter, but when his TV acted up again, he took another look and saw it bank steeply and disappear. He described the sound as "kind of like a turbine engine rather than like any plane or copter I ever heard."

St. Paul Dispatch - Army Reserve helicopters were flying in the vicinity of where a large UFO was reported last Wednesday northeast of the Twin Cities.

This report from March 28, 1978, mentions that Army Reserve helicopters were flying in the vicinity of where a large UFO was reported. Investigators reported that witnesses saw the UFO within 100 feet of the ground and larger than a helicopter. A Reserve spokesman stated the helicopters were in the area but not at the same time as the UFO was reported, and were flying at 1,000 feet.

Lake Charles, La. Press - Close encounters of the first kind?

This article from April 1, 1978, by Roger Gassiott, details his personal experience of seeing a "flying saucer" while with his son. He describes a "bright object" composed of "three independent elements" that later appeared to be two. He noted its erratic movement, hovering, and then moving in a northeasterly direction. While acknowledging the possibility of a weather balloon, he questioned the erratic speeds and maneuvers. He also references a similar sighting six years prior.

St. Croix Falls, Wisc. Press - U.F.O.'s reported sighted in Scandia area

This report from March 30, 1978, discusses residents of Scandia, Minnesota, reporting "bright red lights" in the configuration of an aircraft. Witnesses said the lights were low flying and appeared to light up a large craft. Investigators suggested the sightings may have been tied to Army helicopter flights in the area.

Des Plaines, Ill. Journal - Claims He Saw UFO

This report from March 23, 1978, details Andy Sansardo's report of seeing "several UFO's in the eastern sky" possibly over Lake Michigan. He described them as having "high-powered white lites" that seemed suspended over the lake before separating and vanishing. The reporting office found no effects such as plants or animals being affected.

Olean, N.Y. Times Herald - Olean Resident Latest To Spot Strange Object

This article from March 21, 1978, features Wilfrid Nash, an 80-year-old Olean man, who reported seeing a "strange flying object" as he drove eastward. He described its "erratic movement," moving slowly at times and extremely fast at others, hovering, and traveling in a zig-zag pattern. He observed it at an elevation of about 3,000 feet and later at about 1,000 feet. He also noted it appeared to be traveling at a peculiar angle. Similar sightings were reported in New York state.

Williamsport, Pa. Grit - Bright-Colored UFO's Seen in Potter County

This report from March 26, 1978, details a resident of Potter County who reported sighting two "unidentified flying objects (UFQ's)" that were "brightly colored with red, yellow, and green tints." One object appeared to stop or slow down. The sighting is under investigation by the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research.

Sioux City, Iowa Journal - What's in that coffee, Tony?

This article from March 8, 1978, discusses a detailed report from Brazil about the abduction of a Brazilian man by "robot-like creatures" who took him aboard a "giant spacecraft." The man, Antonio La Rubia, claims he was examined by at least 25 creatures described as having football-shaped heads, elephant-trunk arms, and a single leg. He described them as four-foot-tall with antennas and small windows emitting a bluish light. He was shown pictures on the wall that later came true, suggesting the beings could predict the future.

Orangeville Banner, Canada - UFO's in Dufferin

This report from March 17, 1978, mentions a Shelburne-area resident reporting an "unexplained light" moving over Highway 10 north of Shelburne. The resident told a CBC radio program the light appeared to zoom toward his car and then disappeared.

Bridgeprot Post, Conn. - Roof and UFO

This article from April 12, 1978, questions what is going on in Hartford, Connecticut, citing a falling roof and a flying saucer sighting. Nearly a score of people claim they saw a UFO speeding about in the skies above I-91. The article speculates if a UFO landing could have caused the mysterious roof collapse at the Civic Center Coliseum and suggests the Legislature should appropriate funds to capture the UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unidentified flying objects (UFOs), strange lights, and aerial phenomena. The magazine presents a wide range of witness accounts, from those who believe they saw extraterrestrial craft to those who attribute the sightings to natural phenomena like meteors or weather balloons, or even hoaxes. The editorial stance appears to be one of open reporting of these incidents, presenting both the accounts and the expert opinions or explanations offered, without definitively concluding on the nature of all sightings. There's a clear interest in documenting these events and exploring the possibilities, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for evidence. The inclusion of multiple reports from different regions suggests a widespread interest in the topic during this period.

This issue of the magazine, dated March 30, 1978, features a prominent cover story titled "Beach walker has 'close encounter'" by Marian Jedrusiak. The issue is filled with numerous reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena from various locations across the globe.

Key Articles and Reports

'Beach walker has 'close encounter' (West Palm Beach, Florida): Kenneth Kent, 23, described seeing about 10-20 movements in the sky, with one object that moved slowly, changed color, and appeared like a pencil pointing down. He noted the movements were not spectacular but moved very slowly and sometimes quickly.

UFO eludes helicopter after sighting in Atherton (Palo Alto, California): Atherton police Sgt. Ron Harris and PG&E electrician Dirk Koops spotted a dark, angular object moving from south to north. It was described as looking like three balloons twisting, then descending and appearing angular. It was later described as being like a large 'bat' kite. A San Mateo County Sheriff's helicopter searched the area but found nothing.

TWICE SAW UFO #1356 Youngster Has 'Encounter' (Oshawa Times, Canada): Eleven-year-old Doris Vinco reported seeing a UFO twice. The first sighting was a bright orange light hovering above houses. The second time, she heard a sound and saw a large craft with glowing white wheels and an orange hue hovering outside her window, which then zipped away.

Boy reports UFO sighting (Terra Alta, West Virginia): Larry Costilow, 12, photographed an unidentified flying object after noticing interference on his television. His father contacted the Preston County Sheriff's Office, and the report was forwarded to the Air Force and a UFO reporting center.

Local man reports strange lights; UFO? (Rawlins, Wyoming): Paul Bodenberger reported seeing two small green lights that moved slowly, then formed a large indigo-blue oval and shot vertically into the sky. He believed it was not an airplane and mentioned a previous sighting in California in 1974.

UFO's sighted here? (Minden, Louisiana): Anonymous citizens reported seeing an unidentified flying object with radiant, bright amber and green lights on Saturday evening. Investigations by deputies found no evidence, and Barksdale Air Force Base reported no unusual aircraft activity.

UFO scares soccer boys off pitch (Warminster, UK): Four boys reported seeing a huge, brilliant silver-grey object, described as two round plates stuck together with a light grey band, hovering silently for three minutes. They were advised to report their sighting to a local UFO expert.

Housewife sparks big UFO search (Yorkshire, UK): Karen Rooney reported seeing a large object in the sky, leading to a ground and air search. Police suggested it could have been a parachutist or a balloon, but the search found nothing.

FACTS section: This section provides brief reports of UFO sightings from Dereham (dome-shaped object with pulsating red light), Newcastle on Tyne (black object with smoke trail), Newington (bright light, humming noise), and Bury (disc-like object performing high-speed maneuvers).

UFO Bureau (Daily Express, London): An invitation for readers to send in information about UFO sightings for study and analysis.

A close encounter - five times over (Leeds, UK): A group of Leeds boys reported seeing five UFOs, described as star-like objects moving quickly and silently. One was orange and kept getting brighter and dimmer.

A STRANGE ENCOUNTER ON FILM (London, UK): Taxi driver Terry Bishop photographed a mystery flying object, described as the size of a double-decker bus, tilted at an angle, and staying motionless before zooming away at incredible speed. A spokesman for Flying Saucer Review called it a typical example of UFO photographs.

UFO startles hundreds in NSW (Sydney, Australia): Hundreds of residents reported seeing a UFO that 'whistled through the sky,' described as a 'ball of fire as big as the moon' moving at high speed. Experts suggested it could have been a large meteorite.

'Saucer circus' over Thurrock (Thurrock, UK): Reports of a 'flying saucer air show' over Thurrock, including a silver object seen by a father and son, and a spotlight-like object. A UFO spotters' organization noted it seemed like an 'air show.'

Mystery UFO is a train! (Luton, UK): A bright blue light hovering over a housing estate near Watford was later identified as a British Rail train causing an optical illusion due to low cloud.

'SPACE BEING' SIGHTED (Risley, UK): A motorist reported sighting a seven-foot 'being from outer space' near a nuclear establishment. The being was described as silvery with bright beams from its eyes and appeared to walk through a solid fence.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE ABSURD KIND... Cyril pictured it, but he doesn't BELIEVE it... (Bournemouth, UK): Mr. Cyril Fulbrook photographed a UFO shape hovering over Bournemouth, but expressed skepticism, suggesting it might be a bright terrestrial object reflecting sunlight.

UFO sightings over Bradford (Bradford, UK): Bradford police received several reports of unidentified flying objects, with three sightings in the Manningham area.

Flying light starts riddle (Wishaw, Scotland): Joan Morton reported seeing a brilliant white object with a small red light at one end, which disappeared after five minutes. Glasgow Airport confirmed a report but had no aircraft or meteorological balloons in the area.

UFO had 'feathers' (Norseman, Western Australia): A bright green object with bright blue and scarlet markings, described as having 'feathers,' was seen moving at the speed of a light plane.

MYSTERY OF CRYSTALS FROM SPACE (Haverfordwest, Wales): Weird crystals that change color were found after a storm, near an area where UFO sightings had been reported. They were being examined.

Castlemilk UFO (Glasgow, Scotland): Mrs. B. Casey reported seeing a star-like object that got lower, gave off a glow, and sank out of view.

Youngsters spot light in sky (Bradford, UK): A group of youngsters claimed to have seen a large disc-shaped white light hovering in the sky.

Kidnapped-by blue aliens from a UFO (Ermington, UK): A housewife recounted an experience of being enveloped in bubbles of light, seeing three beings, and being lifted into a room on a beam of light before being returned to her lawn.

UFO 'flying sun-lamp' (Trimsaran, Wales): A couple reported seeing a disc-shaped bright light that changed color and moved faster than an aircraft, described as being like a 'sun-lamp.'

Housewife sees UFO (Pleasley, UK): Mrs. Rose Hitchen reported seeing a UFO hovering over her garden, described as no bigger than a football with spikes, which traveled slowly across the sky.

Early-morning 'UFO' baffles driver (Wheathampstead, UK): Dr. Rodney King and Mr. Jon Marsh reported seeing a small, brilliant white light that accelerated upwards and disappeared with a small explosion.

UFO could have been a plane (Gloucester, UK): A 'cigar shaped glow' seen by several people was suggested by Air Traffic Control to have been an aircraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, close encounters, and the mystery surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena. The magazine presents a wide range of reports, from eyewitness accounts to photographic evidence and official investigations. While some reports are explained away as misidentifications of conventional aircraft or natural phenomena, many are presented as genuine mysteries, fueling the ongoing public fascination with UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these phenomena without overt skepticism, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also including some accounts that express doubt or offer alternative explanations.

This issue of the St. Helens Reporter, dated March 3, 1978, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, featuring reports from various regional newspapers across England and Scotland. The cover story, "'Spinning-top' UFO seen by family," highlights a local sighting, while other articles delve into broader UFO theories and a surge in public reports.

Key Articles and Reports

'Spinning-top' UFO seen by family (St. Helens Reporter)

The main cover story details a sighting by Mildred Rigby in Billing, England, in the Autumn of 1971. She described a silent, spinning object resembling a huge spinning-top with a lifebelt-shaped piece around the center and windows. The object moved slowly and was low in the sky. Rigby noted that several reports of this sighting appeared in the Reporter the following Friday.

Strange Sightings (St. Helens Reporter)

This section reports on at least three independent sightings of a mystery object over Burbage Common on Tuesday, January 24th, around 8 p.m. The object was described as "oval" and "saucer-shaped" with a dull red glow. Reports from the Leicester group indicated a similar object was seen moving towards Hinckley on the same day. The Hinckley U.F.O. Society planned to interview witnesses.

Woman spots another UFO (Evening Post, Leeds, England)

A woman from Sutton reported seeing an oval-shaped object in the sky near Skipton. While travelling by car, she saw the object at Kildwick. It changed into an elongated shape and travelled at a very fast speed towards Silsden. She initially thought it was smoke or a cloud.

Year starts with 31.8 reports of UFOs (Greenock Telegraph, Scotland)

This article notes that 1977 was dubbed "the year of the UFO," but 1978 was quickly following suit in the Inverclyde area. In the first seven weeks of the year, the Telegraph had carried reports of local sightings. A Port Glasgow man saw three strange objects over his hometown. Air Traffic staff at Glasgow Airport handle many UFO reports annually, recording them for the Ministry of Defence. The article encourages readers with TRUE UFO stories to contact 'Stargazer' for potential publication, promising anonymity if requested.

Conditions Perfect (Greenock Telegraph, Scotland)

A witness, identified as 'JK' from Crawberry Road, Greenock, recounted seeing two glowing yellow objects shoot across the sky from Larkfield Hospital. He then saw another object, described as like miniature suns, travelling faster than a jet plane. His immediate reaction was met with disbelief from other patients.

More UFO Sightings (Mansfield Chronicle, England)

A Pleasley housewife's UFO sighting was supported by two independent witnesses. The UFO was described as bigger than a football with spikes. Mrs. Rose Hitchen first spotted the object. Peter Talbot and Mr. W. Blythe also reported seeing similar objects, with Blythe describing one as a large, bright, orange star-like object.

Mystery object has UFO experts foxed (Daily Express, London, England)

This article from February 25, 1978, discusses a mysterious object sighted over Chertsey on Saturday night that baffled UFO experts. Norman Oliver, editor of the British UFO Research Journal, called it "highly unusual." Mrs. Lyn Price of Farningham, Kent, described the object, which was seen by her and friends while travelling by car. She noted it was flying low and at high speed, and her pilot friend confirmed it was not an aeroplane. Heathrow air traffic control reported no UFOs in the area that night.

UFOs! Sightings pour in (Daily Express, London, England)

This report highlights the overwhelming response to the Express UFO Bureau, which received over 5,000 letters and calls in five days from people convinced of alien life. Reports came from diverse professions, including airline pilots, servicemen, and housewives. One woman placed a $3,000 bet that 32 UFOs would land by May 20th.

Keep an eye on the sky - those saucy saucers are still hanging about (Kentish Independent, Woolwich, England)

This article notes a spate of UFO sightings in East London, Kent, and Essex. Mrs. L. Sheehan reported seeing a cigar-shaped object with three white lights. Mr. Roy Levy saw two mysterious objects following the river. In Chelmsford, two women spotted a stationary dome object with a rim and a glass window. Mr. Andy Collins of the UFO investigators network stated there was "quite a flap on at the moment."

Outback Stonehenge builds up the UFO theory (Sunday Telegraph, Australia)

This piece explores Bruce Cathie's theories, presented in his book "The Pulse Of The Universe." Cathie suggests that ancient structures in the Australian outback, discovered by Len Beadell, point to a highly advanced civilization. Cathie, a former airline captain, believes UFO activity is linked to a global energy grid and that an advanced civilization is waiting to communicate with Earth. He urges humanity to "Wake up!"

'Saucer' sightings again (South Wales Echo, Wales)

Two "saucer" sightings were reported in the Swansea area. A couple saw a large red ball in the sky on the M4 motorway, which then disappeared. Another sighting involved a white, triangular object hovering over Mynydd Newydd common.

Families sight mystery object (Milton Keynes Gazette, Bucks, England)

Nine families from Bletchley's Lakes estate witnessed a dome-shaped light, described as a massive object with a mysterious glow. Witnesses reported it made no noise but emitted a "zoom-like" sound and a flash. Two policemen and over 20 other witnesses had reported flying phenomena in the area.

Women in fear after 'saucer visit' (Thurrock Gazette, Essex, England)

Two women in Purfleet reported seeing two balls of fire collide, revealing an unidentified flying object. Mrs. June Rees and Miss Isabel Ferguson described it as a large object shaped like a child's spinning top with windows and lights. Miss Ferguson was shaken and fearful after the experience.

Another UFO sighted (South Wales Evening Post, England)

Mr. Cyril Parry and his wife reported seeing a disc-shaped bright light above electricity pylons near Timsaran, Carmarthen. The light changed color and moved upwards faster than a plane, resembling a sun-lamp.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings, the public's fascination with the phenomenon, and the attempts by some to scientifically explain or theorize about these events. The articles collectively suggest a significant increase in reported sightings in early 1978. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these events, encouraging reader participation, and exploring various theories, from the mundane to the extraterrestrial, without definitively concluding on the nature of the objects. There's an underlying tone of encouraging open-mindedness and investigation into these unexplained aerial phenomena.