APCIC - Vol 03 No 11 - 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.) from November 1978, Volume Three, No. 11, focuses on a variety of UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across North America. The publication is based in Cleveland, Ohio, and serves as a clearinghouse for information on aerial phenomena.

Key Articles and Reports

UFO Seen Over Lake Michigan

This prominent article details a series of sightings of a cigar-shaped object over Lake Michigan in September 1978. The object was reportedly seen by three separate U.S. Coast Guard stations in Ludington, Michigan; Two Rivers, Wisconsin; and St. Joseph, Michigan. Information was relayed to the area command post of the Coast Guard in Columbus, and ultimately to North American Air Defense Command (NORAD) headquarters in Colorado, which confirmed the sighting. An investigator for the International UFO Investigative Bureau, Robert Todd, worked with the Coast Guard to evaluate the reports. Base technicians estimated the UFO's speed at close to 1,200 mph based on the time between sightings. Seaman Gary Randall of the Two Rivers station described the object as having no discernible shape initially but being larger than a jumbo jet or B-52 bomber. It reportedly hovered for 30 minutes before moving away quickly, then returning from a different direction. The object then shot away from Two Rivers almost instantly. The article notes that valuable sightings are often made by groups, especially those with technical training.

UFO Sightings Reported Sat. In The Evanston Area

This article from the Evanston, Wyoming Herald (dated September 28, 1978) recounts sightings by Wyoming Highway patrolman Eugene Mallory and others. Mallory, initially skeptical, witnessed blinking red, green, and white objects moving north. He described a large, hovering object from which a beam of light appeared to emanate towards a smaller companion object. The transmission of radio communications became unusually clear during the sightings. The article also mentions a Sunday evening sighting of a triangular formation and a square formation above Evanston. Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle, a professor at the University of Wyoming, is quoted stating that reports indicate similar observations across various states and countries, with common colors being red, green, and white, and shapes including disks and nocturnal lights. Sprinkle notes that objects are often reported to move without sound.

Sheriff Joins 'Viewers' of Air Whatzits

This report from The Detroit News (dated October 12, 1978) covers sightings over the Lake Michigan shoreline in Michigan. Sheriff John Simmons of Oceana County reportedly saw unidentified flying objects on at least two occasions. Deputy Sheriff Dave Waller described an object with red, green, and white lights seen over Silver Lake on October 1, calling it "definitely a UFO." He noted the object hovered, moved rapidly, and descended. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Scott Richardson stated he shot motion picture film of an Oct. 1 sighting and sent it to Cleveland for processing. Richardson and his crew reported seeing a very bright white light with a red light above and green light below that lasted almost four hours. He expressed a personal belief that more intelligent life exists beyond Earth.

'Strange Lights' Seen on Horizon

This article from The Sault Star (Canada, dated July 24, 1978) describes sightings by Ethel Murphy of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. She reported seeing "very strange bright lights" on the horizon that hovered and moved for fifteen minutes. Dr. Randy Mullin from Lake Superior State College suggested it might have been the planet Venus, but Mrs. Murphy stated Venus would have been in the west. Mullin also mentioned a conjunction of three planets (Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn) that occurred recently, but noted it would not have been in the northeast. Chris Carss from the Sault weather office recalled seeing the lights and suggested they might have been unusual cloud formations illuminated by the sun at dusk, creating strange light patterns.

UFO Stuns City Man, He Claims

This Timmins Press article (Ontario, Canada, August 1, 1978) features Robert Ruddy of Timmins who claims to have seen a UFO shaped like a giant fork. He described it as being slightly larger than a house, hovering motionless for several minutes before emitting a blinding flash of light and accelerating away at extreme speed.

Young Campers Have UFO Scare

This Ajax News Advertiser report (July 12, 1978) details an incident where two young girls, Alision Riddell and Michelle Johnson, claimed to have seen a large orange egg-shaped object hovering over their backyard while camping. They described it as glowing and making a beeping noise before disappearing.

Was It a Weather Balloon Or UFO Seen Friday?

This Hudson, Wisconsin Star Observer article (September 28, 1978) discusses reports of a shining light or object seen by many Hudson area people. The National Weather Service identified it as an unmanned balloon released by the National Center for Atmospheric Research. However, two bar patrons reported seeing a UFO in a field with three large charred circles in a triangular formation. Keith Hussey and Gavin Redman described a bright, hovering mass of white. Thomas Heiman from the UFO Education Center expressed interest in the sightings.

UFOs are All in Their Imagination

This article from the Leader Post (Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, August 4, 1978) features Dr. Ian Halliday, a Canadian astronomer, who states that while UFO sightings are common, they are not evidence of extraterrestrial objects. He categorizes claimants into those seeking financial gain, hoaxers, those who misinterpret phenomena, and those whose belief in UFOs serves as a substitute for religion. Halliday notes that a U.S. study of UFOs was shelved after ten years with no solid evidence found.

'Moon Watch' Is Prompted By UFO Calls

A Fitchburg, Massachusetts report (Sentinel & Enterprise, October 12, 1978) mentions police receiving calls about UFOs and "coneheads." The lights were identified as National Guard helicopters, but the "coneheads" remained a mystery.

Morris Is Hit With UFO; Genya Leaves the Scene

This article from the Morning News (Paterson, New Jersey, September 27, 1978) reviews a rock concert featuring the British hard rock band UFO and singer Genya Ravan. The article focuses more on the music scene than UFO phenomena, though it mentions the band UFO.

Reading List

The issue includes extensive "Reading Lists" of hardcover and paperback books related to UFOs, sea serpents, psychics, cosmology, ancient technologies, Bigfoot, and biblical archaeology. Titles include "Cauldron of Hell: Tunguska," "Ripley's Believe It or Not!: Stars, Space, UFOs," "The Runaway Universe," "Messages From the Stars," "Worlds Before Our Own," and "Bigfoot All Over the Country."

Subscription Information

Details are provided for subscribing to the A.P.C.I.C. Clipping Service, with monthly rates for U.S. & Canada ($5.00) and foreign subscriptions ($6.00), including air mailing. Information is also given for purchasing back issues at $2.50 each.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings. The A.P.C.I.C. appears to be a dedicated information center for such phenomena, compiling reports from various sources, including law enforcement, military personnel, and civilians. While presenting numerous accounts of unexplained aerial phenomena, the publication also includes articles that offer skeptical viewpoints or alternative explanations, such as misidentification of natural phenomena or deliberate hoaxes, as seen in the Dr. Ian Halliday piece. The editorial stance seems to be one of documenting and disseminating information on UFOs while acknowledging the complexities and potential for misinterpretation. The inclusion of a reading list suggests an aim to educate readers on a broad range of related topics.

This document is a scan of a newspaper, likely a local gazette, from Brazil, Indiana, dated September 5, 1978. The primary focus of the front page is a prominent article detailing UFO sightings in the area.

UFO? Spotted Over Brazil

The main article, written by Leslie Miller, reports on multiple sightings of an unidentified flying object (UFO) over Brazil, Indiana. The sightings began approximately two and a half weeks prior to the publication date. Ruth Keen, a resident, first noticed the object while relaxing on her porch at 11 p.m. She described it as an airplane-like object that stayed in one place for a full hour before moving northwest. After observing it in the same spot for two weeks, she alerted her husband, Virgil Keen.

Virgil Keen contacted the sheriff's department on a Thursday night at 10:14 p.m. Deputy Daryl Trackwell responded and observed the object through binoculars. Trackwell initially suggested it might be a weather balloon near Sky King Airport in Terre Haute. Joanne Hayes, a radio operator at the sheriff's department, also observed the object from her yard, describing it as a distant red glow that hovered but stayed in one place.

Janice Simon, secretary at Sky King Airport, confirmed that three airplanes had landed by 10 p.m. on the night in question and that the airport maintained its runway lights and rotating beacon. Ray Mark, facility chief at Hulman Field Airport in Terre Haute, stated that the airport no longer launches weather balloons, though an Allegheny commuter flight from Chicago to Terre Haute does pass over the Sky King Airport area around 10 p.m. However, Alma Williams, an Indianapolis reservations employee for Allegheny, confirmed that the specific flight in question had landed by 9:50 p.m. that Thursday and no other flights were scheduled.

Officials at Grissom Air Force Base in Peru, Indiana, denied conducting any weather balloon tests in the area but noted that numerous balloon races were occurring in Indiana. S. C. Kimball, General Federal Aviation Operations Inspector in Indianapolis, explained that balloonists must file flight plans for restricted airspace but not for non-restricted areas. He also mentioned that most balloonists avoid flying at night due to navigation difficulties and the need for special equipment like lights.

Ray Mark from Hulman Field also reported that a balloon launched at 6 p.m. that Thursday had returned to the ground well before 10 p.m.

On Friday evening, from 10:15 p.m. to 11 p.m., the object was again observed in the northwest sky by Ruth and Virgil Keen, Bernadine Estes, and the reporter. Ruth described it as "round with red, white, and green alternating lights." She expressed uncertainty about its nature. The object remained stationary for about an hour before moving away suddenly. Virgil Keen commented on its ability to move very fast and expressed a belief that officials often dismiss unexplained phenomena. Ruth also mentioned that Paul Muncie and his family had seen the object earlier in the week, and she had initially hesitated to share her experience for fear of being considered "crazy."

The article concludes by suggesting that the object's presence indicates that "we are not as alone as we thought we were."

Other Articles and Sections

Page 2: Features a report from Madison, W. Va., dated September 14, 1978, about UFO sightings in that area. Approximately 25-30 residents of Ashford reported seeing an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) after two young boys first spotted it. Deputies and a state trooper were dispatched but did not comment. Witnesses described two objects, one of which vanished, while the other emitted a red glow. Descriptions included it being round with a flashing beam of light.

Page 3: Contains reports from Huntington, W. Va. (September 24, 1978), Sterling, Ill. (September 20, 1978), and Shelbyville, Ind. (September 9, 1978).

• Huntington, W. Va.: Several Tri-State residents reported UFO sightings. Some saw large floating objects resembling garbage bags, while others saw a brilliantly lit object hovering. The National Weather Service uses weather balloons, but their release times and airborne duration were noted. A teacher reported seeing a garbage bag-shaped object. State Police searched for a downed plane after reports of an airplane with flashing lights, but found nothing.
• Sterling, Ill.: Residents in Lanark, Shannon, and Mt. Carroll areas reported two UFOs on Thursday after 10:00 p.m. One was in the northwest sky, the other in the northeast. The Carroll County Sheriff's office received many calls. One object was identified as a planet, but both had red and green flashing lights and appeared stationary. The northwest object disappeared, while the northeast one moved south.
• Shelbyville, Ind.: An "unusual police report" involved deputies and a local woman reporting a UFO. Descriptions included "flames shooting out the back" and a "rectangular in shape and white in color with a green tint." Authorities suggested it might be a meteor or space junk, but some remained convinced it was a UFO.

Page 4: Features reports from New Rochelle, N.Y. (September 25, 1978), Athens, Tenn. (September 19, 1978), and Logan, Utah (September 25, 1978).

• New Rochelle, N.Y.: Three residents reported seeing an unidentified flying object Sunday night. Police responded but could not see anything. Witnesses described a bright, flashing white light traveling north without noise.
• Athens, Tenn.: McMinn County Civil Defense director Carl Sturgil planned to inform Scott Air Force Base about a reported UFO sighting. A woman reported seeing two man-like forms dressed in white and a reddish-pink object that descended and hovered. The forms "just disappeared" when the object landed. A ground search revealed no physical evidence.
• Logan, Utah: Reports of strange lights in the sky over Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming were attributed to the star Capella, described as "looking fiendishly beautiful" and unusually bright due to fall weather conditions. The star was seen flashing along its east-west path. The National Center for UFO Studies suggested seasonal changes in horizon conditions might cause normal objects to appear odd.

Page 5: Contains reports from Paris, Tenn. (September 19, 1978) and Elkhart, Ind. (September 19, 1978).

• Paris, Tenn.: A photo accompanies a report about Sandra Hooper of McMinn County, Tenn., who saw two man-like forms picked up by an unidentified flying object. The craft was described as approximately 25 feet long and 8 feet high, glowing a bright reddish color. The figures "just disappeared" when the craft hovered.
• Elkhart, Ind.: Charles Tucker, director of the International UFO Bureau, reported a "rash of UFO sightings" in Nappanee. Residents reported seeing objects on Thursday evening. One witness described a bright light that moved slowly, changing colors from white to deep red, yellow, and orange before disappearing. Another saw an object nine or 10 times larger than a star, which became bright before disappearing. The month's total sightings in the area reached 11, with 44 reported in the Indianapolis area in August.

Page 6: Features a report from Spencer, W. Va. (August 31, 1978) and Canandaigua, N.Y. (September 18, 1978).

• Spencer, W. Va.: An article titled "Mystery Solved (At Least In Part) As 'Rocks From Sky' Are Identified" discusses material found on Woodrow Boothe's farm. Analysis by West Virginia University indicated the material was mortar, likely blown in from an old house site by a whirlwind or cyclone, especially given that two tornado clouds were sighted in the area.
• Canandaigua, N.Y.: Reports of UFO sightings over Rochester and Canandaigua were investigated. A hot-air balloonist stated it was unlikely to be a balloon due to the conditions (darkness, wind). Another balloon promotion in Rochester used a balloon that was only flown during daylight hours. The article suggests that the sightings might have been caused by atmospheric conditions or possibly a balloon.

Page 7: Contains reports from Brazil, Ind. (September 15, 1978), Roanoke, Va. (September 15, 1978), and Athens, Tenn. (September 18, 1978).

• Brazil, Ind.: "More UFO Sightings Revealed" by Leslie Miller. Ruby Russell reported seeing a UFO at 3 a.m. that made a strange noise, had an orange pulsating glow, and moved straight up. Her son also saw it. Hanna Green described a rusty-colored orange object with a silver band, moving silently and sailing rather than rotating.
• Roanoke, Va.: Dillard Sizemore reported strange occurrences at his property, including long, deep ruts and triangular slices in the earth, leading him to consider extraterrestrial visitors.
• Athens, Tenn.: A woman in Delano reported seeing two man-like creatures and an unidentified flying object that landed in her yard. The creatures "just disappeared" when the object landed. The report was passed to state civil defense, and it was noted that the Air Force no longer routinely checked UFO sightings.

Page 8: Features reports from Navasota, Texas (September 7, 1978) and Jacksonville, Fla. (September 17, 1978).

• Navasota, Texas: "Channel 2 to televise Grimes' UFO report." An interview with Dr. Edmond McGee and C.R. Sullivan about a UFO observed near Retreat on August 27 was to be featured on TV. The object was described as spherical, about one-quarter to one-half mile away, with a dull metallic bottom half and mirror-like surfaces on the top half. It moved effortlessly in all directions and reportedly came within four feet of the ground.
• Jacksonville, Fla.: "UFO mania on Rome radio heard here" by Michael Browning. Police in Rome, Italy, received numerous reports of bright lights in the sky. The Italian government radio suggested they were pieces of the U.S. satellite Pegasus I breaking up. However, NASA officials stated Pegasus I was not expected to re-enter the atmosphere until later, and its visibility would be limited to areas far south of Rome.

Page 9: Features reports from Detroit, Mich. (October 12, 1978) and Goshen, Ind. (October 4, 1978).

• Detroit, Mich.: "Ludington officers, seamen encounter a rash of UFOs" by Susan Watson. Law enforcement and Coast Guard officials reported seeing five brightly lighted, fast-moving unidentified flying objects over Lake Michigan. Deputy Dave Waller described the object as tremendously bright and making one dizzy. The Coast Guard had received reports of similar sightings in July. Seaman David Laird noted that cylindrical objects with red and white lights were seen hovering for 30 minutes before moving west across Lake Michigan at high speed. A photograph of the object showed only colored lights. The Coast Guard had investigated similar sightings previously with no explanation. It was noted that UFO sightings sometimes increase after nuclear tests.
• Goshen, Ind.: "Lights Seen In Nappanee Area." Three Nappanee residents reported seeing a UFO on September 28. Charles Tucker of the International UFO Investigative Bureau reported the sightings. Witnesses described a triangle of red and orange lights moving in the sky. A plane passed through while they were watching, confirming it was not an aircraft.

Page 10: Features reports from Guelph, Ontario, Canada (August 16, 1978) and Toronto Sun, Ontario, Canada (September 20, 1978).

• Guelph, Ont.: "UFO sighting in Guelph" by Wendy Jones. A lawyer and his wife, along with three police officers, reported seeing strange lights over the Woodlawn industrial basin. The object was described as a 'golden glow' that moved northwest. Police were emphatic it was not a plane or helicopter. A spokesperson for the police suggested the lights might have been from the planet Venus, supported by a local astronomer. The article also mentions a meteor shower and sightings of falling stars.
• Toronto Sun, Ont.: "Jesus on Venus? Heavens above!" This article discusses British UFO experts who believe alien beings are studying British cows and that Jesus Christ lives on Venus. It mentions reports of a fireball, an alien being, cow-measurers, and a "blue man." The Aetherius Society claims to receive messages from Mars and Venus and states Jesus Christ lives on Venus. The society's origin is traced to George King in London.

Page 11: Features a report from Medina, Ohio (October 9, 1978).

• Medina, Ohio: "Trucker reports UFOs in county." A truck driver reported seeing four unidentified flying objects (UFOs) in Homer Township. He described them as pink-and-red, diamond-like objects that formed a horizontal pattern and flew southwest.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The collection of articles predominantly focuses on UFO sightings across various locations in the United States and Canada during the latter half of 1978. A recurring theme is the detailed reporting of witness testimonies, often corroborated by multiple individuals or even law enforcement officials. The articles frequently explore potential explanations for the sightings, ranging from conventional aircraft and weather balloons to more speculative theories like atmospheric phenomena or extraterrestrial visitation. While some reports conclude with rational explanations (e.g., the mortar rocks, the star Capella), many leave the nature of the observed phenomena as unexplained or mysterious. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on these events with a degree of seriousness, acknowledging the widespread nature of the sightings and the persistent public interest in the topic, without definitively concluding the existence of extraterrestrial craft in every instance. The Brazil, Indiana article, in particular, ends on a note of wonder about humanity's place in the universe.

This issue of The Leader Post, dated September 1, 1978, features a prominent cover story on the psychological aspects of UFO sightings. The publication includes a variety of reports on alleged UFO encounters from across Canada, alongside discussions of potential scientific explanations and the growing public interest in the phenomenon.

UFOs and Psychology

The lead article, "Psychologist says hypnosis enabled UFO-watchers to remember details," by an unnamed reporter, details the work of Leo Sprinkle, a psychologist at Wyoming University. Sprinkle claims that through hypnosis, individuals who have experienced UFO encounters can recall details of events that were previously blank in their memory. He states that half of the 50 individuals he hypnotized over five years were able to recall precise details of their 'black-out periods' aboard alien spaceships. Sprinkle believes these findings support the idea that 'we are not alone' and that humans are not the sole intelligent life in the universe. The article also briefly mentions Carl Higdon, a Wyoming oil-well driller, who described a humanoid creature with antennae and cones instead of hands, capable of beaming objects.

EMO Closes Bradford Farm Mystery

Another report, originating from The Brandon Sun and datelined July 27, 1978, details the closure of the "Bradford farm mystery" by the provincial Emergency Measures Organization (EMO). Jim Eaton, the provincial EMO director, stated that the investigation found "absolutely nothing" to explain the phenomena the Bradfords were experiencing, which included headaches, nausea, dizziness, and skin irritation. The Bradfords had evacuated their farm near Central Butte, Saskatchewan, in February. The incident reportedly triggered numerous inquiries about UFOs from Saskatchewan residents and others across Canada and the United States. The EMO's only previous UFO investigation involved a sighting near Glentworth, Saskatchewan, where rings of dead clover were found, but no explanation was determined.

Martians or Meteor?

A report from The Kamloops Daily Sentinel, dated July 28, 1978, titled "Martians or meteor?" by Katherine Dedyna, describes a close encounter near Barnhartvale. Gary Dunham and three other men reported seeing a bright, yellow-white, oblong-shaped object hovering over a barren area. Dunham described it as a brilliant light. The airport control tower received multiple calls about the sighting, with one controller suggesting it sounded like a meteor, though unable to confirm.

UFOs in the News Across Canada

Several other articles highlight UFO sightings from various Canadian locations:

• Lindsay, Ontario (August 22, 1978): The Lindsay Daily Post reported that residents saw a "metal object brighter than moon" hovering over Ross Memorial Hospital. The object reportedly hovered for a few minutes before taking off into the northern sky.
• Bayham, Ontario (September 8, 1978): The Tillsonburg News reported that seven residents of the Straffordville area claimed to have seen an unidentified flying object with red, white, and green lights following their car. They described an indescribable sound and a white light descending from the object.
• Oshawa, Ontario (August 2, 1978): The Oshawa Times reported on an "Eerie Pulsating Light" observed in a pond north of Oshawa. Terry Boyle described a pulsating white light in the water that illuminated the area and reacted like a "force field" when a stone was thrown at it.
• Woodstock, Ontario (August 18, 1978): The Woodstock-Ingersoll News reported that Al Chapesky saw two shiny, unidentified flying objects maneuvering high in the air above Woodstock. Police took the report seriously, though an air traffic controller at London airport had no reports of unusual activity.
• Guelph, Ontario (August 10, 1978): The Guelph Mercury reported that three Guelph police constables and others saw strange lights over the Woodlawn Road industrial basin, described as a "golden glow" that moved and disappeared.

Astronomical Explanations and Skepticism

An editorial from The Ogden, Utah Standard-Examiner (September 26, 1978) titled "Nature's Tricks Create UFOs," suggests that "Mother Nature" is responsible for many UFO reports. R. Gilbert Moore of the Thiokol Co. and Mark Littman of the Hansen Planetarium explained that the star Cappella, being unusually bright and in the northeastern quadrant, could appear to move when observed closely. Additionally, a major solar storm was reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which could cause atmospheric disturbances and enhance visual effects. The editorial concludes that nature, not extraterrestrial visitors, is responsible for most strange aerial phenomena.

Similarly, Dr. Ian Halliday, a senior astronomer at the National Research Council, stated that while UFO sighters are not necessarily "nuts," they are not seeing extraterrestrial objects. He noted that a $10-million US study of UFO sightings was shelved years ago and has not been reopened, suggesting a lack of evidence. Halliday categorized people who claim close encounters into four groups, including those who profit from interest in UFOs, those who play pranks, those who genuinely misinterpret phenomena, and those who see what they want to see.

Further Sightings and Investigations

• Ulster County, New York (September 28, 1978): The Poughkeepsie Journal reported on Joseph Spinozzi's account of a "mighty strange" object with white spotlights hovering noiselessly near his home. Gary Levine, director of the Mutual UFO Network, considered it a potentially "genuine UFO sighting" due to its characteristics, such as hovering over a parking lot and its unusual nature compared to conventional aircraft.
• Rome and Sicily (September 15, 1978): The Honolulu Advertiser reported hundreds of people in northern Italy and Sicily saw a "flying cigar" shaped object emitting bright red and blue lights.
• Ithaca, Michigan (October 4, 1978): The Ithaca Herald reported a Riverdale woman saw a moving object with red and green flashing lights that appeared to be a star before being viewed through binoculars.
• Port Charlotte, Florida (August 30, 1978): The Herald-Tribune reported that a Port Charlotte family and a neighbor described a glowing object with unusual movements in the sky. Authorities like the FAA and the US Coast Guard had no reports, but a UFO research center noted that Florida has few UFO reports, with most occurring in Southern California and Pennsylvania.
• Rockford, Illinois (August 31, 1978): The Rockford Register Star reported on a "flying object still unidentified" near Stockton, with police and a sheriff's deputy observing a disc-shaped object with multi-colored lights. Explanations like advertising planes and Venus were ruled out.
• Carmi, Illinois (August 17, 1978): The Carmi Times reported multiple sightings of "unidentifiable flying objects" by area residents, described as red, green, and white blinking objects hovering and soaring.
• Collingwood, Ontario (August 16, 1978): The Enterprise Bulletin reported on a "Mysterious Flying Object" seen by Collingwood residents Frank and Betty Shannon. They observed an orange glow and a second star-like object. Captain J.R. Shaftee of Base Borden suggested it was an airplane reflecting sunlight, a theory supported by scientists at the National Research Council who noted that high-flying aircraft can reflect light, especially near the horizon.
• Portugal (August 31, 1978): The Oshkosh Daily Northwestern reported that dozens of Portuguese reported a large, round, unidentified flying object with bright red-and-white lights hovering over Lisbon.

UFOs and Government Interest

The Monclan Transcript (September 7, 1978) highlighted the "unprecedented numbers" of UFO sightings in 1978, with reports running at 400 per week. The article noted President Carter's authorization of a million-dollar US research program and the UN being urged to designate 1978 as International UFO Year. Gabriel Green, president of the Flying Saucers Clubs of America, emphasized the mathematical probability of extraterrestrial life. The article also mentioned the Hollywood film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and its predicted success, noting its cooperation with UFO experts. It also referenced Dr. Allen Hyneck's work and the historical US investigation into UFOs, which concluded there was no convincing direct evidence but unofficially, research continued. The article suggests governments may be aware of phenomena but anxious to keep the public from knowing, possibly due to the implications of advanced alien technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Across these reports, recurring themes include the difficulty in identifying objects, the role of natural phenomena (like stars, atmospheric conditions, and solar storms) as potential explanations, and the skepticism from official sources contrasted with the conviction of witnesses. The editorial stance leans towards natural explanations for many sightings, as seen in the "Nature's Tricks Create UFOs" piece, while acknowledging the persistence of unexplained phenomena and the growing public fascination with UFOs, fueled partly by media and popular culture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This collection of articles from September 1978 demonstrates a significant public and media interest in unidentified flying objects (UFOs). Several recurring themes emerge: the persistence of witness accounts despite official skepticism, the exploration of psychological factors like hypnosis in memory recall, and the ongoing debate between attributing sightings to natural phenomena versus extraterrestrial origins. Several articles highlight the efforts of amateur astronomers and official bodies like the EMO and National Research Council to investigate and explain these events, often concluding with natural explanations or a lack of conclusive evidence. However, the sheer volume of reports and the conviction of many witnesses suggest an ongoing mystery. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Nature's Tricks Create UFOs" piece, leans towards natural explanations, attributing many sightings to atmospheric conditions, celestial bodies, or misinterpretations of conventional aircraft. Despite this, the articles collectively reflect a society grappling with the possibility of the unknown in the skies, with a notable increase in reported sightings and a growing public discourse around the topic, even influencing popular culture through films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind."

This issue of the BURLINGTON STANDARD-PRESS, dated October 4, 1978, features a "Letters to the Editors" section that addresses the portrayal of UFOs on NBC's "Project UFO" program and critiques the alleged bias and carelessness of Air Force investigations. The issue also includes numerous reports of UFO sightings from various locations in the USA, England, and Australia, alongside articles detailing investigations and the mysterious disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich.

Letters to the Editor

Richard W. Heiden of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, writes to express disappointment with NBC's "Project UFO" program, stating that the depicted UFO incidents were distorted and fictional. He questions the integrity of the show's producer, William T. Coleman, claiming he was not the head of the Air Force's UFO project as he asserted. Heiden's letter is based on extensive reading of UFO literature and refers to works by David M. Jacobs and J. Allen Hynek, who he states name the actual heads of successive UFO projects, none of whom were Coleman.

Another letter from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, dated October 15, 1978, reports an incident where Al Eberly witnessed an object crash on Highway Q. The object, weighing 20 pounds and 27 inches around, left an indentation in the ground and affected a compass, indicating the presence of iron. It also contained quartz crystal and was chipped.

Report UFO Sightings

Oceana County, Michigan (AP): Sheriff John Simmons and Deputy Dave Waller reported multiple UFO sightings in Oceana and Mason counties since July 28. On Tuesday night, Simmons saw a UFO near Silver Lake. The department relayed the report to the Coast Guard at Ludington, which had confirmed four earlier sightings. Deputy Waller described the object as hovering, moving rapidly, and descending over Silver Lake, with blinking red, green, and white lights. Coast Guard Chief Scott Richardson confirmed seeing the same UFO and two others, noting they were high up and moving at a high rate of speed horizontally, then stopping and moving vertically. He also mentioned a sighting on July 28 of a UFO heading west across Lake Michigan, which was also reported by the Coast Guard station at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, shortly after.

MILWAUKEE, WISC. - JOURNAL (October 15, 1978): Al Eberly reported seeing a meteorite crash and an object with an indentation of one to two inches in the hard surface. The object weighed 20 pounds, was 27 inches around, affected a compass, and contained quartz crystal.

DURAS, TEXAS - NEWS PRESS (October 12, 1978): The planet Jupiter was mistaken for a UFO due to a freak atmospheric condition that altered its lighting pattern, causing it to radiate red, blue, and yellow lights. Police Sergeant Robert Nugent initially observed the dazzling planet and contacted the UFO center in Seattle, which explained the phenomenon.

BELLINGHAM, WASH. - HERALD (October 8, 1978): Two men, Russell Simonson and a schoolteacher, reported seeing an unidentified flying object southeast of Smith Road. The object was described as large, round, and white like a balloon, moving south and appearing to flatten out like an airplane without wings.

UFOs Are Sighted Over Lake Michigan

LUDINGTON, Mich. (UPI): Sheriff's deputies and U.S. Coast Guard officials reported repeated sightings of brightly lighted, fast-moving unidentified objects over Lake Michigan. Deputy Dave Waller described the lights as tremendously bright and dizzying. He and Deputy Frank Steiger observed an object for 30 minutes on October 1, flashing green, white, and red lights and hovering. The Ludington Coast Guard confirmed seeing the object and three others. Sheriff John Simmons also reported seeing UFOs. Seaman David Laird of the Coast Guard in Cleveland mentioned reports from July 28 near Benton Harbor, Ludington, and Sturgeon Bay, Wis., describing cylindrical objects with red and white lights that moved at high speed across Lake Michigan. A Coast Guard officer took pictures showing a row of six colored lights.

The UFO leaving at 8.45

ACTON GAZETTE - ENGLAND (August 31, 1978): A mystery object, described as a ball of fire, has baffled authorities in West London. The object has been seen nightly around 8:45 p.m., moving west and fading in about seven minutes. Jim Hale described it as changing shape three times and not being a planet. Mrs. Deana Godden reported seeing a much larger object on Friday morning. Explanations like reflections from Heathrow Airport lights or helicopter activity were discounted. The Royal Astronomical Society ruled out the possibility of it being a star, planet, or comet.

UFO Sightings - experts to examine soil

SURREY DAILY ADVERTISER - ENGLAND (August 31, 1978): Scientists are to examine soil samples from Worplesdon, England, where UFOs have been spotted. A seven-year-old boy described seeing a spaceship land in the heather, leaving distinct markings. Christopher Segwick also saw a strange object fly past his bedroom window. Other sightings include a large orange and white light in the sky. A teacher reported a light that suddenly disappeared. A Worplesdon woman saw a bright orange and white saucer-shaped object. Mr. John Burch saw two bright lights hovering. The Surrey Investigation Group is investigating, with Omar Fowler stating soil samples are being tested for radiation. A woman reported being woken by a bright light.

Close encounter UFO claim

WREXHAM EVENING LEADER - ENGLAND (August 24, 1978): Michael Kinsey reported seeing a large orange light in the northern sky, described as a large orange sphere that changed shape to a three-quarter circle and flickered before vanishing after six minutes.

UFO area

DAILY NEWS - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 22, 1978): Bright lights have been sighted over Bass Strait, near King Island, where pilot Frederick Valentich reported seeing an unidentified flying object before his aircraft vanished on Saturday night. Searches have yielded no trace of the aircraft. Sgt Jack Woodward and others reported strange lights. A nursing sister saw bright unfamiliar lights. A letter to the King Island News described a slow-moving light. Valentich was described as a hand-picked, level-headed instructor. The rescue coordination center increased the search. There was skepticism among pilots about Valentich becoming disoriented.

DAILY NEWS - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 23, 1978): A maritime Nomad aircraft joined the search for Frederick Valentich. He reported seeing an unidentified object hovering around his Cessna 182, describing it as a "long shape" with a green light and metallic light on the outside. His engine was rough-idling, and his radio went dead. Some pilots suggested the object might have been a reflection or a result of disorientation. Valentich's father, Guido Valentich, believes his son may have been taken aboard a UFO.

DAILY NEWS - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 24, 1978): Guido Valentich, father of missing pilot Frederick Valentich, believes his son was taken aboard a UFO. He described his son's disappearance over Bass Strait after reporting an unidentified object. Searches continue, with an oil slick found in Bass Strait being tested. Valentich was about halfway between Cape Otway and King Island when his radio went dead.

STROUD NEWS & JOURNAL - ENG. (July 20, 1978): The British UFO Society is investigating UFO reports and is interested in hearing from readers who have had sightings or are interested in UFOs. They state that while most sightings can be explained, a 'hard core' remains unexplained.

DAILY NEWS - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 23, 1978): The Department of Transport released a tape recording of the conversation between pilot Frederick Valentich and Melbourne Flight Service Unit. Valentich reported an unidentified object hovering around his aircraft, describing its shape and lights. His engine was rough-idling, and his radio eventually went dead. The object then vanished. The RAE at Farnborough and RAF Odiham confirmed no night flights were operating in the area.

CLOSE ENCOUNTER ON WAY HOME: A couple, Bill and Margaret Johnstone, reported seeing a car-like shape hovering in the sky, described as huge and red, with no noise. It circled and moved out of sight, then reappeared in front of their car before flying away at great speed. They were fascinated and would love to see it again.

Tape 'gap' heightens mystery of UFO

THE AUSTRALIAN (October 26, 1978): The Federal Department of Transport is withholding parts of a tape recording of pilot Frederick Valentich's encounter with a UFO. The released transcript covers a six-minute period, but the tape is reportedly longer. A "long metallic noise" ended radio contact. A source indicated Valentich described the UFO in detail, and his voice showed no panic. The department is treating it as a routine accident investigation. Valentich had filed a one-way flight plan to King Island.

Girlfriend 'knows' lost flyer alive

DAILY NEWS - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 27, 1978): Rhonda Rushton, girlfriend of missing pilot Frederick Valentich, told authorities she "knows" he is alive. Department of Transport officials admitted they were at a "complete stop" on the investigation. No trace of Valentich or his Cessna 182 has been found. Tests on oil slick samples showed the oil did not come from an aircraft. Rushton's interview details are confidential.

Those sharp-eyed men in outer space

MOSCOW, Mon: Soviet scientists reported that two cosmonauts on the orbiting Salyut 6 space station developed enhanced vision, able to distinguish details on Earth from a height of 280km. These experiments were programmed after earlier cosmonauts demonstrated similar sharpened vision. Another Soviet spaceman could distinguish a shoal of fish from 280km.

The cabin was suffused with green

SUNDAY INDEPENDENT - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 29, 1978): An expert suggests pilot Frederick Valentich may have been flying upside down when he reported sighting a UFO. The article compares the Valentich case to the 1973 Mansfield, Ohio, UFO encounter involving a US army helicopter. In that incident, occupants reported a cigar-shaped craft that dragged their helicopter. The article notes similarities between the two cases. It also mentions that in 1976, the RAAF investigated 39 UFO sightings, and that the US Air Force and National Academy of Sciences had previously stated that flying saucers did not exist, attributing most sightings to natural explanations.

Dozens saw that strange object in the sky

SUFFOLK FREE PRESS (October 5, 1978): Numerous reports of UFO sightings have come into the Free Press office, with the British UFO Society investigating. Over 40 people confirmed seeing a large, reddish-pink, hovering, noiseless object that disappeared. Similar descriptions were received from various locations in North Essex, with sightings occurring between 11:00 and 11:15 at night. The British UFO Society, based in London, is interested in the reports, noting a significant increase in activity. Mr. Ken Rogers of the society stated that such phenomena often occur in waves.

WESTERN MAIL - CARDIFF, ENG. (August 21, 1978): An unidentified cigar-shaped object reportedly crashed and exploded in the market place of Fort Dauphin, Madagascar.

KENT EVENING POST - ENGLAND (September 7, 1978): Mr. Glenn Warner reported seeing three red lights in the sky in the Cobham area, which he described as a square object with tubular sides, traveling at about five miles per hour. He stopped to observe it and found it not to be a conventional aircraft. Mr. John Taylor had previously reported seeing an object hovering over Cobham Hall.

UFOs left organisms, congress told

WEST AUSTRALIAN - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 10, 1978): A Portuguese expert, Raul Berenguel, told a UFO congress in Porto that living organisms from outer space were collected and tested in laboratories in Portugal 19 years ago. He claimed to have observed scientific studies on these micro-organisms for two years. A picture of what was said to be the extra-terrestrial organism was published, described as having tentacles and defensive postures. The micro-organism reportedly showed strength in laboratory experiments. Glen Tysoe reported finding a circular, burnt-out section of grass in Nanarup, Australia, possibly from a UFO landing.

Mystery object 'was a UFO' claim

NORTH WALES WEEKLY NEWS - ENGLAND (August 31, 1978): Several people in North Wales claim to have seen an unidentified flying object on Friday night. Witnesses described it as flying through the air with no noise, not like an aircraft, and being about 2,000 feet up. Mr. Maldwyn Williams noted the absence of anti-collision beacons and the closeness of the object. Mrs. Shirley Bellis described a bright star that appeared orange and green through binoculars. A motor mechanic and his wife reported a large bright round object moving slowly in the sky. Air traffic control at Liverpool Airport reported no unusual activity. North Wales Police had received no reports, but RAF Valley had received several reports of possible UFO sightings, though they did not pick anything up on radar.

Spotter gets second sight of UFO

ALDERSHOT NEWS, HARTS. ENGLAND (September 1, 1978): Paul Gifford, a farm labourer, reported seeing his second UFO in five months. He described the object as triangular, with a sharp white light, moving erratically. He believes UFOs exist and is interested in them. Both RAE Farnborough and RAF Odiham confirmed no night flights were operating in the Fleet area.

Cape Lambert UFO sightings

SUNDAY INDEPENDENT - PERTH, AUSTRALIA (October 8, 1978): More than 20 people have reported sightings of unidentified flying objects in the Cape Lambert area. Three men on a workboat reported a light resembling a red flare, corroborated by the Cape Lambert Marine Department. A mass sighting on August 30 led to official reports to the Royal Australian Air Force. While a satellite re-entry was offered as an explanation, Mrs. Vi Garvin, who sighted the object, found it unsatisfactory. She described it as moving horizontally, descending vertically, and then going out of sight, like a helicopter landing. Glen Tysoe found a circular, burnt-out section of grass in Nanarup, believed to be a landing site.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, pilot disappearances linked to UFOs, and the ongoing debate about the nature and investigation of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events and investigations, presenting various witness accounts and official statements, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many UFO encounters. There is a clear interest in UFOs, with multiple publications dedicating significant coverage to sightings and related incidents across different continents.

This issue of UFO REVIEW, published in September 1978, delves into a multitude of UFO sightings reported across England and Canada during the summer months. The magazine aims to uncover "secrecy off the greatest mystery of all times" and presents evidence that "flying saucers have landed and aliens have arrived on earth."

Key Articles and Reports

Concorde is 'Shadowed' by UFO (Sunday Mirror, August 27, 1978):
This article reports on claims from people living near Heathrow Airport that the supersonic jet Concorde is being spied on by a UFO. Eyewitnesses describe the object as a "huge ball of coloured light" that appears friendly. Mrs. Dean Godden and her husband Ernest reported seeing a "very shimmering object" that stayed in the sky for about 17 minutes. A Heathrow official stated that nothing was picked up on radar. UFO expert Barry Gooding suggested that UFOs might be observing technological advancements.

A thing that goes bump in the night (Ilford Recorder, August 24, 1978):
Mrs. Marilyn Perl of Barkingside reported hearing and feeling a loud vibration and seeing white flashing lights moving quickly in the sky. Peter Spinks of the Essex UFO Study Group stated they would be investigating this "fairly typical sighting."

Mystery of UFO over an airport (Daily Mirror, August 11, 1978):
An air of secrecy surrounds a sighting of an unidentified flying object by air traffic controllers at London's Gatwick Airport. While an airport spokesman confirmed that controllers saw "something," they declined to provide details. Residents reported seeing a saucer-shaped object with a piercing white light.

Hartlepool schoolboy spots U.F.O. (Hartlepool Mail, August 19, 1978):
Simon White, an 11-year-old aircraft enthusiast, reported seeing a "silver rocket-shaped unidentified flying object" in the sky above Hartlepool. He described it as a cylindrical object oscillating from side to side, unlike any known aircraft.

FAMILY 'SAW MASSIVE UFO LAND IN FIELD' (Wrexham Evening Leader, October 5, 1978):
A family living in Deeside reported being woken by loud humming noises and seeing a "massive square object, rounded at the top, the size of a bungalow," in a cabbage field. The object was covered with bright flashing lights. They found no signs of disturbance in the field the next morning. This sighting follows a spate of UFO sightings in the Deeside and North Wales area.

UFO spotted - It went zap and then it was gone (Milton Champion, September 6, 1978):
Al Waters of Milton, Ontario, Canada, reported seeing a UFO with the appearance of a "shiny piece of glass" that sped across the horizon. He could not estimate its speed or size, describing it as going "zap from the east horizon to the west."

Time lapse? (Northern Despatch, October 10, 1978):
This article discusses a spate of UFO sightings in Darlington, England. Reports include a bright light moving faster than an aeroplane, an orange flash, a metallic object with no sound or wings, and a saucer-shaped object seen landing. The article also introduces the "time slip" theory, suggesting that areas where two worlds meet could allow UFOs to appear.

UFOS sighted says group (Wiltshire Gazette, September 7, 1978):
The Pinehurst-based Aerial Phenomena Investigation Club has reported four sightings since starting a nightly skywatch. Club president Adrienne Smith reported seeing three unusual flying craft performing aerobatics over Warminster. Another sighting involved a saucer-shaped object passing low over Pinehurst.

Bromley's night flashes still a mystery (Bromley Times, September 7, 1978):
This report details several UFO sightings in Bromley, England. One incident involved a "brilliant white flashing light" that police suggested might be a railway line short circuit, but a witness refuted this. Another sighting described a "black flat disc" with "blue, green and red lights" circling an open space.

UFO sends Evelyn's washer berserk (The Star, Sheffield, October 5, 1978):
Housewife Evelyn Whitway reported a strange encounter with a UFO that caused her washing machine to go berserk. She described seeing a "long object like an aeroplane without any wings," which was silver and made no noise. Two schoolgirls in Sheffield also reported recording "weird flashing lights" and noises.

Strange objects in the sky again (Holyhead & Anglesey Mail, September 7, 1978):
Regular UFO sightings were reported in Llanerchymedd, Wales. Objects ranged from the size of a football to a banana shape. One farmer saw a bright white light that stopped and shot away towards an aerodrome. A group of children saw a "big ball of light, with rays coming out." A purplish triangle was also seen hovering.

'MYSTERY LIGHTS IN SKY' (Bath & West Chronicle, September 13, 1978):
Three people in the Dunkerton area reported seeing a bright red and orange light moving slowly across the sky, described as saucer-sized. One witness followed the object, which had no distinct shape.

Dudley UFO sightings (Stourbridge County Express, August 11, 1978):
Two further confirmations of a UFO incident over Dudley were reported. Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright described an "illuminated airship." R. H. Tomlinson described a "long thin vapour trail" appearing from the south-east, with the object becoming cigar-shaped as it headed north.

Well, would you believe it? (Wrexham Evening Leader, July 28, 1978):
Vernon Wright and his wife Cath reported seeing a UFO flying from north to south across the Llangollen valley. They described a "white brilliant flash" and the object moving too fast to be a plane.

A new UFO sight (Bucks Free Press, August 11, 1978):
Mrs. Edna Freeman of High Wycombe reported seeing a "huge, bright, saucer-shaped" object with beams of light pointing upwards. It was seen above the Octagon and disappeared suddenly.

UFO Books and Merchandise

The magazine also features a comprehensive list of UFO-related books and merchandise available for purchase, including titles on alien contact, abductions, government reports, and specific case studies. Featured items include "Flying Saucers, An Analysis of the Air Force Project Bluebook Report No. 14," "Case for the UFO," "UFOs and the Bible," and "UFOs Around the World." A special offer is available for a subscription to UFO REVIEW, including a poster and a report titled "Aliens Among Us."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings, the difficulty in explaining many of them through conventional means, and the potential implications of these phenomena. The magazine adopts a stance that UFOs are a genuine mystery, with evidence suggesting possible alien visitation and government cover-ups. The editorial stance is one of encouraging readers to be informed and to question official explanations, as indicated by the cover headline and the content of the articles promoting UFO research and investigation.