APCIC - Vol 03 No 12 - 1978

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.) newsletter, dated December 1978, is Volume Three, Number 12. It compiles a wide array of UFO sightings and related reports from various locations across the globe, including the United States, Argentina, and Australia. The cover features a collage of newspaper clippings with headlines about UFOs, highlighting the international scope of the phenomenon.

Key Articles and Reports

Ludington UFO Vanishes

A report from Traverse City, Michigan, details the disappearance of film containing a photograph of an unidentified flying object (UFO) taken by Scott Richardson, chief petty officer at the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Ludington. Richardson snapped the photo on October 1st at 10:45 p.m. of a bright moving UFO, which he described as "a light twice as bright as a star, about 15 or 20 miles south of the station here." He sent the film to Coast Guard District Headquarters in Cleveland, but it was never received. Congressman Guy Vander Jagt inquired about the film, assuring that it would be released if found and developed. Richardson expressed doubt about the film's quality, stating that experienced photographers had told him there might be nothing on it. He also mentioned a television network news program had shown a photo of a similar UFO taken in Wisconsin on July 28th. Sheriff's deputies in the Ludington area also reported seeing the UFO that night. Deputy Dave Waller stated, "Whether it was something from another planet, or something from another country, I don't know. But it sure made a believer out of me." Post office officials were attempting to locate the missing film.

Halloween Comes Early for Barry County Family

A report from Joplin, Missouri, describes an incident on the Marlett Sturgell farm where an unidentified flying object was observed. Mrs. Dora Sturgell first noticed a white, round object in a field below her home around 6 a.m. Sunday. As she approached, the object lifted into the air, appearing to be silver with a black, slightly oval part. Five family members witnessed the object lift off and fly towards the west, then north, appearing as large as an airplane. The object was described as silver in color, with one part black and slightly oval. After the object left, the family investigated and found a disturbed area about four feet in diameter, with burnt grass and leaves. The sheriff's department was contacted, and a UFO investigation center was notified. The area was covered with a tarp to preserve it.

Argentinian Officials Say UFOs Were Lasers

A news brief from Green Bay, Wisconsin, reports that city officials in Buenos Aires, Argentina, stated that unidentified flying objects causing traffic jams were actually laser beams bouncing off clouds. These were part of tests for a movie's sound and light effects at the Buenos Aires planetarium. Thousands of people had gathered to watch the lights.

UFO Reported in Highlands

A report from Highlands, Texas, describes a sighting on Sunday morning around 7 a.m. Several men reported seeing a strange object in the sky. Mr. Edwin E. Thompson described seeing something flash out of the corner of his eye. He and two companions watched the object as they drove towards Mont Belvieu. They estimated it to be about 20,000 to 30,000 feet up, diamond-shaped, and deep purplish-blue with white flashing lights at each point. They concluded it was not an aircraft or a weather balloon. Mr. Thompson stated, "It was really weird. We watched it for about 25 minutes and the whole time it remained stationary. All of a sudden it just seemed to disappear." Personnel at the Houston Museum of Natural Science Planetarium had received similar reports. Johnny Brazzil, of Baytown, believed the object was a weather balloon, noting that they often have vivid colors and flashing lights.

UFOs Continue To Be Seen Over State

This section compiles multiple reports from West Virginia and surrounding states. In West Virginia, law enforcement officers and residents reported seeing strange lights and hovering oval-shaped objects in at least five counties. Similar reports came from Ohio and Pennsylvania. Eleven officers in Wood County watched mysterious lights hover over Parkersburg for over three hours, with one light moving south towards Elizabeth. In Johnstown, Pennsylvania, listeners called a radio station about a "cluster of lights," with about 50 people verifying the sighting of four red and white lights in a rectangular formation, described as bigger than stars and glowing. Police officers were among those who reported sightings. The Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, Illinois, received several UFO reports by telephone. A physics professor at Marshall University suggested that certain atmospheric conditions could cause ground lights to reflect in the sky, a phenomenon known as optical 'looming.'

Springville Woman Saw UFO

Alice Wilder of Springville, California, reported seeing an object that she initially thought was a star. However, its "quasi-cigar shape" and disappearance in "a couple of minutes" convinced her it was not. She described it as very high, traveling slowly from south to northwest, growing smaller and vanishing. She noted no aura of radiation, change of color, or sound. She mentioned it was "rather long" and came "kind of to a point," unlike a comet or shooting star.

Search for Lost Plane Ends Happily

This report from Roselle, Illinois, describes a radar blip that disappeared from an air traffic controller's screen at O'Hare International Airport, triggering an air and ground search. The search concluded happily when the "wreckage" was found to be a farmer's plane that had been sitting in a field since June. The cause of the radar blip remained unexplained.

Multicolored 'It' Spotted

A report from Durnat, Oklahoma, describes a sighting of a "multicolored 'It'" southeast of Durant around 2:30 a.m. The object was green, red, blue, and orange. Dogs barking woke the Leonard Hobson family. Deputy Don Payne saw the object hovering about a thousand feet up, which then went straight up and disappeared. Payne noted, "I never saw nuthin' like this." He was told there were three objects, one going north, one south, and one lingering. Police in Tishomingo, Ardmore, and Texas also reported sightings. The highway patrol contacted Tinker AFB, which reported no civilian or private aircraft in the area.

'UFO s' Fool Lake Huron Residents

In Port Austin, Michigan, dozens of shoreline residents reported seeing UFOs over Lake Huron. However, the objects were identified as flares released from aircraft during a training exercise by the Wurtsmith Air National Guard. This incident was similar to one that occurred in 1976, where flares were mistaken for UFOs.

Citizens, Police In Four Counties Report UFOs To Authorities

This article from Charleston, West Virginia, details numerous UFO sightings reported by residents, city policemen, state troopers, and radar operators in four counties over a weekend. Police in Kanawha County received over 30 calls reporting oval-shaped objects in blue, green, and white. Similar reports came from Roane, Mason, and Putnam counties. Sightings often involved groups of three objects with multicolored and flashing lights. State trooper Gary Williams reported seeing "some bright lights, high up, with some green and white and blue mixed in." Photographs developed from his sighting showed "little blips of light at a distance, some of them streaked as if they were moving." Bill Wallick of the Federal Aviation Administration noted that radar readings in Spencer coincided with sightings of "three targets," but suggested they might be "second time around targets" or a technical radar anomaly. Checks with the Indianapolis Flight Control Center and the National Weather Service found no records of objects supposed to be in the area. Robert Brown, director of the Green Bank National Radio Astronomy Observatory, suggested that hot, clear weather following a cold snap could create turbulent thermal cells in the air, producing strange effects. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, director of the Center for UFO Studies, stated that weather conditions "may have been possible for the sightings," but declined further speculation.

Sightings from weather?

This article from Huntington, West Virginia, explores the possibility that recent weather conditions may have caused the flashes in the sky reported as UFOs. Dr. Ralph Oberly, chairman of MU's physics and physical science department, suggested that "optical looming," a phenomenon of light refraction in a moving air mass, could be responsible. He noted that while this explanation is not new, he had never personally witnessed an effect he would call a UFO. Three West Virginia state troopers and other law enforcement officers reported seeing objects zip across the sky. Cpl. Don Sharpe described seeing seven objects move in a way he had never seen before. In Kanawha County, over 30 reports of visual sightings were received. Deputy R.B. Pritt described a craft with at least four lights that appeared to be rotating. Bill Givens, a supervisor at the Kanawha County Airport control tower, reported unidentifiable objects on his radar all weekend, but suggested they could be radar-caused weather phenomena. Frank Crump, a Mason County sheriff's deputy, described a "jagged, spherical shape" with green, orange, red, and blue lights, estimating its diameter at about six feet. Dr. J. Allen Hynek of the Center for UFO Studies stated that weather conditions might have been possible for the sightings but needed more information.

Fairly Close Encounters

This article from Indianapolis, Indiana, summarizes several UFO encounters reported widely. It mentions sightings over West Virginia, Argentina, and southeastern Australia. The strangest story is from Melbourne, Australia, where pilot Frederick Valentich radioed about a long-shaped UFO with four bright lights orbiting above him, stating, "It isn't an aircraft. It's..." His transmission was cut off after he reported his engine was coughing. The Australian Air Force conducted a search without results. Valentich's father mentioned his son's long-standing interest in UFOs. A traffic jam in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was attributed to laser beams used for a movie special effect. The article also notes that in West Virginia, over 30 sightings of mysterious bright objects were reported, with explanations ranging from radar-caused weather phenomena to atmospheric effects. It concludes by questioning what might be flying in the night sky.

UFO seen here, too?

Two junior students from Milford High School in Highland Township, Michigan, reported seeing an unusual object on October 11th. Michelle Malpass and Denise Cuddy described it as a star initially, but as it moved, it appeared as two circular white lights with a smaller red light in between. The object flew rapidly and seemed larger than an airplane. They later learned that other UFOs had been sighted in Michigan that night.

UFOs have powerful thirst for gas

Two separate reports are included: One from Buenos Aires, Argentina, where a yellow and violet light reportedly shut off a car's engine and headlights, lifted the vehicle, and drained its gasoline tank. The second report is from Kuwait, where seven Kuwait Oil Company technicians claimed to have seen a "saucer" land silently in an oil field. The object was described as the size of a jumbo jet, cylindrical, with a huge dome and a flashing red light, and it departed after seven minutes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different geographical locations and the variety of reported phenomena, from lights in the sky to physical objects. There is a consistent effort to present witness accounts while also exploring potential conventional explanations, such as weather phenomena, atmospheric effects, and man-made aircraft or devices. The A.P.C.I.C. appears to function as a clearinghouse for such reports, aiming to document and disseminate information on aerial phenomena. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse reports and possible explanations without definitively concluding on the nature of the sightings.

This issue of the GASTONIA, N.C. - GAZETTE, dated October 28, 1978, features a prominent cover story titled "What is it flying around Lincoln County?" by Joel Groves. The magazine compiles numerous reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and strange lights sighted across various locations in the United States and Australia during October 1978.

Cover Story: What is it flying around Lincoln County?

The main article by Joel Groves details a series of UFO sightings in Lincoln County, North Carolina, beginning in August. George Fawcett, a UFO investigator and state director of the Mutual UFO Network, states that reports have increased significantly since August, indicating low-altitude objects under intelligent control and of unknown origin. Fawcett dismisses natural phenomena and psychological explanations, pointing to common characteristics such as machine-like movement, electromagnetic and ultrasonic energy, and radio/TV interference. He notes that UFO sightings often occur in cycles, with peaks in October, and are attracted to high voltage power lines, large bodies of water, military bases, and geological faults. The article also mentions that UFO reports tend to increase before Halloween and during election years. Fawcett is studying human reactions to UFO sightings and invites witnesses to write to him.

Specific incidents in Lincoln County include a family in Vale seeing a star-like object that moved closer, appearing as a cup on a saucer with red lights, hovering, and then shooting upwards. Three round, orange objects were sighted near a power line, causing dogs to bark hysterically, and leaving an orange glow in the sky. A woman in Maiden reported a round orange ball of light near an electrical substation that appeared to touch down before shooting up, accompanied by loud static and beeping noises on her car radio. Another woman reported a tremendous electrical disturbance on her TV set, and other residents heard dogs barking.

Other Reported UFO Sightings

Australia

A report from Australia details the mysterious disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich, who radioed that a large object with four green lights was hovering over his plane and "is not an aircraft" before contact was lost. The Australian Air Force theorized disorientation, but Valentich's parents believe he was seized by a UFO. Valentich had previously expressed interest in UFOs and reported a sighting the year before.

West Virginia

Reports from West Virginia include sightings in Great Cacapon and Morgan County of fast-moving, colorful lights. Corporal Donald Sharp of the Berkeley Springs detachment reported seeing seven objects with red, blue, and white lights flashing. Elsewhere, in Kanawha County, objects were detected on radar screens at Kanawha Airport, described as slow-moving with flashing multi-colored lights. Explanations included "turbulent thermal cells in the air" creating a "rainbow effect."

North Carolina

In Edgecombe County, a caller reported a UFO with red, green, and white blinking lights. In Wake County, deputies David Waller and Andy Young initially kept quiet about seeing an eerie, fast-moving light but later shared their experience. Deputy Joe Gerrell also saw a similar light. The objects were described as brilliant, moving erratically at high speeds, disappearing and reappearing.

Pennsylvania

Near Keystone State Park, Mark Withrow reported seeing six red, round-shaped lights that appeared stationary before moving west. He described them as odd-shaped and not blinking.

Michigan

In Ludington, Michigan, a bright object with red and green lights was reported hovering over Lake Michigan. Photographers confirmed seeing objects that appeared like stars but blinked and had red and green colors. In Fremont, Michigan, a report about a missing film containing a picture of a UFO sighted over Lake Michigan was discussed, with Congressman Guy VanderJagt involved.

Texas

In Sherman, Texas, Jack Groves reported seeing a bright light traveling straight up into the sky. Another resident reported seeing two UFOs. A Sherman woman witnessed mysterious flying objects for three consecutive mornings. Police in Tishomingo, Ardmore, and Durant, Oklahoma, reported seeing multicolored flying objects. A family in Durant reported dogs barking at a hovering object, which a responding officer described as round, "disc-like," and brightly colored with orange, red, blue, green, and other lights.

Tennessee

In Elizabethton, Tennessee, Capt. Jim Jennings reported seeing an object hovering over Lynn Mountain that sped away "like a bullet" after 15 minutes. The object changed colors and was silent. A woman in Gap Creek also reported seeing a strange flying object.

Illinois

In Carbondale, Illinois, plant manager Linden Swetland reported seeing a UFO described as a "huge bright light with a long vapor cloud tapering behind it," which hung motionless before turning, arching, and then taking off at tremendous speed. He estimated it was 20 to 30 miles high and appeared as large as the morning sun.

New Mexico

In Las Cruces, New Mexico, Margaret Roberts reported a large, bright metallic object descending on her car, causing it to stall and shattering her windshield. She saw two flashing green lights before the object rose straight up.

Other Mentions

Reports also mentioned sightings in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Missouri communities like Piedmont, Washington, Union, and Elsberry. The article notes that the Center for UFO Studies and Sasquatch Research is collecting information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings, the consistent descriptions of objects exhibiting unusual characteristics (lights, speed, behavior, electromagnetic effects), and the lack of official explanations. The editorial stance, particularly evident in the "More study needed" section and the endorsement of Felix Zigel's call for research, supports the need for more thorough scientific investigation into UFO phenomena. The articles highlight the growing number of credible witnesses, including law enforcement officers and pilots, and the increasing public interest in the subject, especially around Halloween.

This issue of the Grand Rapids Press, dated November 7, 1978, focuses heavily on reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) across various locations, primarily in the United States. The cover story, "Object Alien to Kent Skies Reported by GM Employees," details sightings by General Motors workers in Michigan. The publication also includes reports from Texas, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, and even international locations like Kuwait, alongside discussions on potential explanations and government stances.

Object Alien to Kent Skies Reported by GM Employees

The lead article by Maury DeJonge details a UFO sighting by two General Motors employees, Jack Smith and David VanVelsen, who were returning from lunch at the Diesel Equipment Division plant in Kent County, Michigan. They described an object with sharp outlines, unlike any aircraft they had seen, hovering for about 30 seconds before moving north. Patrolman Dennis McLenithan investigated, confirming that witnesses described the object as having "sharp outlines" and moving in a sweep north and east, then directly north in a slight climb. Smith, a former Air Force mechanic, stated he had never seen such a flying object before and that it made no noise. VanVelsen noted the object "rocked back and forth slightly" and was not round or square, with definite features. David Bland described it as silver and shaped like an upside-down cup. Robert L. Farr, another GM worker, described it as silver with an oval top. Officials at Kent County International Airport reported no UFO sightings on Sunday.

Uncle Sam Has No Plans to Greet Visitors From Space

This section reports that the U.S. government has no plans for greeting or defending against alien visitors. NASA spokeswoman Mary Fitzpatrick stated there has been "no indication or proof of any UFOs." A State Department spokeswoman indicated any UFO landings would be handled "on a case-by-case basis." An official from the Defense Department stated that any sightings would be reported to appropriate authorities. UFO investigator Walter Andrus Jr. expressed outrage at this lack of readiness, calling it "gross negligence."

UFO: Insect Swarms

An article from the Dallas Times Herald (Nov. 1, 1978) by Jon Van presents a theory by Dr. Philip Callahan, a government entomologist, suggesting that UFO sightings might be caused by swarms of migrating insects. Callahan explained that insects flying in a large swarm within an electrically charged storm front can emit a type of corona discharge, producing a bluish glow similar to St. Elmo's fire. He noted that insect migrations, like those of spruce bud moths, can form huge swarms that correlate with UFO sighting reports. Agricultural records in Utah showed a correlation between spruce budworm infestations and UFO sightings. Callahan suggested that forestry students could study these nocturnal UFO sightings to gain information about insect migration.

Sky Said Putting On Quite a Show

Another article from the Dallas Times Herald (Oct. 31, 1978) features Dr. D. Bingman Jr., a professor of astronomy, who suggests that many reported UFO sightings might be explained as ultra-bright stars. He noted that increased stellar activity, bright planets like Capella and Aldebaran, and clear skies can make stars appear more colorful and seem to "dance about." Bingman believes that people are simply noticing celestial phenomena they were previously unaware of.

Celina, Ohio Standard (Nov. 2, 1978) - 2nd Sighting

This brief report mentions a second consecutive day of UFO sightings in Celina, Ohio. A reporter received a description of an object with flashing red and green lights that hovered and moved east. The object was estimated to be about 400 feet above the ground. Two Mendon youths also reported seeing an unidentified flying object the previous Tuesday evening.

UFO: It Could Have Been Jupiter

An article from the Traverse City, Mich. Record-Eagle (Nov. 4, 1978) by Kathleen Stocking discusses UFO sightings over Kalkaska, Michigan. Dr. James Sweitzer from the Adler Planetarium suggests that Jupiter's activity might explain some sightings, noting its brilliance, flickering due to atmospheric turbulence, and the potential for it to give off red and green light. However, David Waltrip, an astronomy teacher, noted that if sightings were higher above the horizon, they might not be explained as stars. John Shephard, an amateur UFO expert, reported that the movements observed were not consistent with Jupiter. The center for UFO study in Evanston, Ill., is collecting data on these sightings.

New York Post (Nov. 14, 1978) - A Close Encounter with the Arab Kind

This brief report describes technicians at a Kuwaiti oil field sighting a flying saucer, complete with flashing red lights, which reportedly halted work. Seven workers, including one American, saw the cylindrical object, described as larger than a jumbo jet, land and take off again.

Sherman Youth 'Sights' UFO

A brief report from Denison, Texas Herald (Oct. 31, 1978) mentions a 15-year-old boy and his friend spotting a UFO in a field near Sherman. They described it as triangular and emitting a blue light that temporarily blinded them. Officers checked the area but found nothing.

Sherman's Backyard UFO Tops Any on TV

An article from the Bastrop, Texas Democrat (Oct. 30, 1978) by Rick Hagar discusses a UFO sighting over Sherman, Texas. Police dispatcher and firefighters observed a stationary object flashing blue, red, white, and green lights for over an hour. Mike Martin, president of the Texoma Unidentified Flying Research Club, suggested it was likely a star, explaining that starlight can appear in various colors due to atmospheric conditions. However, witnesses like J.B. Webb and others reported hearing a dull hum, described as different from a normal airplane engine sound, and the object moved northeast. The article also mentions other multicolored flying objects reported in Southeast Oklahoma.

UFOs Sighted at Kalkaska

Another article from the Traverse City, Mich. Record-Eagle (Nov. 3, 1978) by Kathleen Stocking details more UFO sightings in Kalkaska, Michigan. Sheriff deputies and school teachers reported seeing "two objects, spinning, although stationary in the sky with red, green and white lights." Sue Carmine, a science teacher, expressed certainty that she saw a UFO, not a star, due to the blinking lights and color changes. She had heard about UFOs but was skeptical until her own sighting.

...Kalkaska Deputies Among Those Making UFO Reports

This article continues the Kalkaska reports, quoting sheriff's deputies and witnesses who described "three colored objects moving in a circle" that appeared over different locations rapidly. Officials radioed the FAA, which reported no known aircraft in the area. Betty Binges and her sons reported similar sightings in Berrien Springs, seeing hovering UFOs and strange beams of light near the Cook Nuclear Power Station. Spokesmen for the Coast Guard and sheriff's department could not confirm these sightings. The article also references bright planets like Jupiter and Sirius as potential explanations for some sightings.

Area UFOs Sighted (Wheeling, W. Va. - Nov. 6, 1978)

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department received a report of an unidentified flying object sighting near John Scott Highway. The report followed several sightings in Brooke County, where deputies reported seeing a "fireball" and about 40 residents called to report sightings. One woman reportedly saw a green cone-shaped object.

UFOs Around Us?

This article from Tazewell, Va. (Oct. 25, 1978) discusses the feasibility of UFOs. It mentions sightings of strange objects and green, star-like lights. The author acknowledges the mystery surrounding UFOs but states that serious observers do not discount their possibility, suggesting they are another segment of life that gives a glimpse into the unknown.

UFOs Invading Brooke County?

An article from Weirton, W. Va. Times (Nov. 4, 1978) by William Virgin explores UFO sightings in Brooke County. Sheriff's deputies reported two separate sightings: one above Brooke High School described as two red balls with an object in between, and another on W.Va. 88 described as a "ball of fire." Witnesses reported hearing a dull hum. The Ohio County Airport tower indicated nothing on radar. The article notes that the sky was filled with planes afterward, including Air Force jets.

UFO Seen Over Mason

An article from Gallipolis, Ohio Times (Oct. 22, 1978) reports an unidentified flying object observed by law enforcement officers in Ohio and West Virginia. Patrolman Kraig E. Hankins observed an object with multi-colored lights above Mason County, West Virginia. It remained stationary for about three hours before shooting straight up. The National Weather Service advised that the object was not a star or planet. Roane County officers also observed an object for about three hours, described as brighter than a star.

UFO reported in W. Va. for the fifth day in a row

This article from Fairmont, W. Va. (UPI) notes that West Virginia is experiencing frequent UFO sightings. Joyce Dehner reported seeing an oblong object with a bright red light that moved soundlessly and then flew straight up. Her mother and brother corroborated her account, emphasizing her credibility.

UFO Explanation (Maybe)

This editorial from Ironton, Ohio Tribune (Nov. 10, 1978) discusses the theory that UFOs might be swarms of insects caught in an electric field. While acknowledging the plausibility of this explanation for some sightings, the author questions whether it can account for all reports, such as the case of an Australian pilot who vanished or large depressions found in the ground.

Reports Sighting UFO

An article from Washington, Pa. Observer (Oct. 30, 1978) features Steve King of Waynesburg reporting a UFO sighting near Oak Forest. He described an object with two green, flashing lights, no noise, and estimated to be no more than 500 feet above them. He stated it was definitely not an airplane or a star.

Hundreds Witness Dazzling UFOs Over Indian Reservations

This article by Harold Lewis and Eric Faucher discusses numerous UFO sightings over isolated Indian reservations, particularly in Washington and Utah. Experts link these encounters to tribal legends about mysterious visitors from other worlds. Trained observers, including fire lookouts and tribal policemen, have made most of the over 160 sightings. Dr. Frank Salisbury notes that as many as 500 people witnessed sightings in Utah. Tribal police and council members describe objects with orange-yellow lights and metallic appearances. Legends speak of "super beings" who came from other planets. Virginia Beavert Martin suggests these events align with ancient Indian prophecies. The article highlights the Yakima and Ute Indian Reservations as areas with frequent sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different regions, the variety of descriptions provided by witnesses, and the attempts by experts to offer rational explanations, such as atmospheric phenomena, misidentified celestial bodies, or even insect swarms. There is also a recurring element of skepticism from some authorities, contrasted with the firm conviction of many witnesses. The government's official stance, as reported, is one of non-engagement with potential alien visitors. The articles often highlight the credibility of witnesses, including law enforcement officers and scientists, while also presenting theories that aim to demystify the phenomena. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting the events and theories without definitively concluding on the nature of the sightings, often leaving the reader to ponder the possibilities.

Title: But Of What Kind? Strange Encounters

Issue Date: October 26, 1978

Publisher: Spencer Newspapers

Country: USA

Summary: This issue of the magazine focuses on a wave of unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings that occurred in West Virginia and surrounding areas in October 1978. It compiles numerous witness accounts, including those from law enforcement officers, pilots, and ordinary citizens, alongside some expert opinions and explanations.

West Virginia Sightings Dominate

The primary focus is on the sightings in West Virginia, particularly in Roane and Calhoun Counties, which began on Friday night and spread throughout the weekend. The lights were described as multi-colored (green, red, blue, white) and sometimes formed into a triangle shape. Spectators and government officials agreed that the lights did not belong to airplanes and were not stars.

Spencer State Police Trooper Gary Williams initially reported the sightings to the Kanawha Airport control Tower on Friday night. He witnessed the lights for approximately four hours, noting they were brighter than any star and changed colors from green to red to blue. He observed four airplanes pass by the object, confirming it was not an aircraft. The Charleston tower reported picking up something on their radar.

Sheriff's Deputy James Atkins corroborated the sighting, describing the object as brighter than stars and its colors as red, blue, and green. He noted that it appeared stationary to the naked eye but could not be definitively identified.

By Saturday night, reports indicated more than one object was seen. Sheriff's Chief Deputy Harry B. "Butch" Smith reported seeing four objects above Norris Industries, describing them as like a Christmas tree with distinct green lights.

Other witnesses in the Spencer area included Police Officer Randy Lane and residents Romeo Miller and Jeff Halcomb. In Calhoun County, State Police Trooper Don Carder and Patrolman Bob Groves watched an unidentified object for about two hours.

Tuesday evening, Spencer Newspapers received calls from residents who reported witnessing the colored lights again.

Explanations and Theories

Several theories were proposed to explain the sightings. One common explanation is that objects flying through the sky and appearing on radar screens are the result of unusual atmospheric conditions. Robert Brown, director of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory at Green Bank, theorized that the sightings were a result of hot and clear weather following a cold snap, creating turbulent thermal cells in the air.

However, the article also notes that some explanations, like "swamp gas" or temperature inversions, have been met with skepticism, especially in light of the growing body of UFO research.

International and Other US Sightings

The issue also includes reports from other locations:

• Australia: A pilot named Frederick Valentich disappeared over Bass Strait after reporting an "unidentified flying object" orbiting above him and his engine malfunctioning.
• Argentina: A traffic jam occurred in Buenos Aires due to crowds watching lights in the sky, which officials attributed to laser beams from a planetarium show.
• Michigan: Police in Coverke County reported two sightings of metallic craft. In Grand Rapids, three calls reported UFOs over different locations.
• Missouri: UFO reports from Cassville were investigated by Ted Phillips for the UFO Studies Center in Chicago, involving sightings of silver, oval-shaped objects and discolorations in a meadow.
• Illinois: Associate professor Clinton Jesser reported seeing two "saucer-shaped objects" flying at high speed over DeKalb.
• Pennsylvania: Steve King reported a UFO sighting near Oak Forest.
• Virginia: A woman reported seeing a large, silver, unidentified flying object below Naugatuck.
• Pennsylvania: The Trockio family in Latrobe spotted an egg-shaped object hovering.
• Canada: Reports from Winnipeg, Manitoba, described a bright red object seen by an Air Canada pilot and airport controllers, occurring before two explosions. Another report from Mono, Ontario, detailed a 16-year-old youth seeing a bright red, flashing cylindrical object. An RCMP officer in Clarenville, Newfoundland, observed an oval-shaped object for over an hour. A photographer in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, spotted an unidentified flying object, later identified as an atmospheric testing balloon.
• Tennessee: A family in Sullivan reported a revolving unidentified flying object.
• Ohio: Reports from Niles Township mentioned a flashing red and blue light high in the sky.

Expert Opinions and Skepticism

Professor J. Allen Hynek, a consultant on Unidentified Flying Objects, is mentioned in the context of his past work and the nomination of Robert Brown for the J. Allen Hynek Award. The article includes a critical piece from Charleston, W. Va., nominating Robert Brown for the Hynek Award, sarcastically referring to his explanations as "ingenious mumbo-jumbo."

In Parkersburg, W. Va., astronomers H. D. Bingman Jr. and William Davis suggested that a bright object seen in the northeast sky might be the planet Jupiter or the star Capella, attributing changing lights to atmospheric conditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings, the variety of descriptions provided by witnesses, and the ongoing debate between unexplained phenomena and rational explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting the events and accounts as they are received, while also presenting skeptical viewpoints and scientific explanations. The article highlights the public's fascination with these events and the difficulty in providing definitive answers, as evidenced by the "Authorities baffled" headlines and the admission that some sightings remain unexplained. The use of multiple newspaper clippings from various locations underscores the national and international scope of UFO reports during this period. The overall tone is one of intrigue and a desire to understand these mysterious occurrences.

This document is a scanned issue of the Detroit Free Press, dated November 4, 1978. The main headline, "UFOs give Michigan a nightly show," indicates the primary focus of the issue is on unidentified flying object sightings.

UFO Sightings Across Michigan

The lead article details numerous reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) observed in the skies over Lake Michigan and Kalkaska County during the week prior to publication. Sheriff's deputies, Coast Guard personnel, and dozens of residents reported seeing these phenomena.

While official aviation sources, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), stated they had not observed anything unusual in Michigan's airspace and suggested some sightings might be aircraft in holding patterns for Chicago airports or atmospheric conditions, the public remained convinced that something mysterious was occurring.

Kalkaska County Sightings

Early Friday, several people in the Kalkaska area reported seeing UFOs. Kalkaska County Deputy Mike Marshall described seeing a stationary object in the sky with red, white, and green lights. Deputy Charles Witt also reported seeing two stationary objects with similar colored lights. Sherry Toole, the Kalkaska village treasurer, mentioned receiving multiple UFO reports, including one from a friend, Lorette Lockwood, who had seen a red-and-green lighted object while driving toward Traverse City. Local schoolteacher Sally Davis also reportedly spotted a UFO.

Lake Michigan Shoreline Sightings

Numerous sightings were also reported along the 125-mile stretch of the Lake Michigan shoreline, from St. Joseph in the south to Ludington in the north. Petty Officer Mike Manning of the Ludington Coast Guard station noted that many sailors had seen strange lights flitting about the sky.

Cook Nuclear Power Station Incident

Earlier in the week, Betty Dinges and her sons Mark and Tom reported seeing several UFOs hovering over the Cook Nuclear Power Station and shooting off bright beams of white light. Del Shaller, manager of the nuclear plant, stated he had not noticed anything unusual but would investigate if further reports were made.

St. Joseph Sighting

Kitty Joyner, who lives near St. Joseph, described seeing airborne red and green blinking lights on Halloween night. She initially thought they were twinkling stars but then spotted a larger, whitish object that seemed to glow. She and her husband, Clarence, observed the object, which they described as being like a big streetlight that illuminated the ground. The lights were still visible at 1:45 a.m.

FAA and UFO Reporting Center Explanations

A spokesman for the FAA regional office in Chicago suggested that sightings from the Lake Michigan shoreline might be aircraft in holding patterns for Chicago airports. He also noted that while there were no unusual radar sightings, the high volume of air traffic in the area made it difficult to identify every anomaly. A spokesman for the FAA office in Traverse City mentioned receiving UFO reports but referred them to a number in Seattle, which turned out to be the Phenomena Research UFO Reporting Center. Robert Gribble, who runs the center, stated that while he had received several calls from Michigan, he concluded that many sightings were likely satellites or bright stars, and that atmospheric conditions could make stars appear to change in size or blink.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue appears to focus on presenting eyewitness accounts of UFO phenomena, highlighting the contrast between official explanations and the conviction of the witnesses. The editorial stance seems to be one of reporting these events as they are perceived by the public, without necessarily endorsing them as extraterrestrial in origin, but acknowledging the widespread nature of the sightings. The inclusion of FAA and UFO reporting center perspectives provides a counterpoint to the eyewitness testimonies.

This compilation of articles from various English regional newspapers in August, September, and October 1978 focuses on a surge of reported UFO sightings across the country. The primary publication featured is the Leicester Mercury, with additional reports from the Croydon Advertiser, Herald Express (Torquay), Framley Times, Edinburgh Evening News, South Wales Echo, Stafford Newsletter, Bristol Evening Post, Harrow Observer, and Haslemere Herald. The overall tone is one of reporting eyewitness accounts and the initial stages of investigation into these phenomena.

Strange Lights in Sky Bring More Claims of UFO Sightings (Leicester Mercury, August 16, 1978)

This lead article details numerous reports of mysterious lights and unidentified flying objects (UFOs) experienced by local people in Leicestershire. Mr. G. Punter reported seeing red, green, and white flashing lights hovering over the Nether Hall estate for about an hour, noting the red light occasionally changed to amber and fluctuated. Mr. Brian Dooler sighted a large, orange-coloured dome-shaped object over Countesthorpe, which descended, disappeared, and then reappeared. Adam Collie, a 13-year-old, reported seeing a kite-shaped object in Loughborough. Sightings were also reported in Shepshed, Castle Donington, and Loughborough. Trevor Thornton of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation (UAPROL) in Leicester is investigating these claims, while the Coalville UNFO Research Association is also looking into sightings in their area. The article notes that many sightings are often dismissed as stars or aircraft.

East Goscote Experience: A Close Encounter (Leicester Mercury, August 11, 1978)

People in East Goscote reported seeing a mystery silver and orange object in the sky. At least 12 children and one adult witnessed the UFO, which they said came down low over the houses, circled, and climbed out of sight. Mrs. Christine Hoolahan described the object as being about the size of a car, with a silvery bottom and an orange top. Her 12-year-old daughter Nicola also sighted a cigar-shaped object. The reports are being investigated by the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation of Leicester.

UFO Spotted (Croydon Advertiser, August 25, 1978)

A man living in Ashby Walk, Croydon, claims he spotted an unidentified flying object over a children's playground. Mr. Gordon Langridge, 37, saw a white light hovering above the Wilford Road playground. After about ten minutes, it moved off towards Mitcham Common. He noted that the children were looking up and pointing at the object. The article also mentions a national newspaper report about air traffic controllers at Gatwick airport seeing a similar saucer-shaped object.

S. Devon UFOs 'Flares' (Herald Express, Torquay, August 19, 1978)

A Heathfield man reported seeing two sets of red, white, and blue flashing lights. Police at Middlemoor, Exeter, suggested these were likely flares used in a military exercise. The objects were seen moving a short distance over half an hour. The Torquay and Exeter UFO centres were planning to observe for UFOs.

Her Eyes Are on the Sky... (Framley Times, August 30, 1978)

Mrs. Muriel Canney of Stanley Road reported seeing a luminous object hovering over West Lane. She described it as shaped like a football and hovering for about ten minutes before shooting away towards the sea. The British UFO Investigation Bureau sent three representatives to hear her story. The article notes that people who have such sightings often possess a 'sixth sense'.

Family's Close Encounter of the Bo'ness Kind (Edinburgh Evening News, September 15, 1978)

A family in West Lothian reported a strange encounter with a red ball of fire hurtling through the air near Bo'ness golf course. Mr. James Middleton, his wife Mavis, and their children Fiona and Stuart, described it as looking like a light aircraft enveloped in flames. They contacted the police, who found no wreckage, and Edinburgh Airport reported no missing aircraft. The family believes it was a UFO. The British UFO Society in London is encouraging people to report sightings, noting that many are afraid of not being believed.

Sighting of UFO Probed (South Wales Echo, September 6, 1978)

South Wales police are investigating a reported sighting of a bright, unidentified flying object over Baglan Mountain, Port Talbot. David Owen, a 17-year-old apprentice electrician, described the object as spherical, hovering over the mountain top for about a quarter of an hour. He discounted the possibility of it being a shooting star or meteorite and was convinced it was a UFO, describing it as alternately glowing red and white and intermittently flashing brightly, with a white light beam streaming behind it.

More Reports of UFO Sightings Over Town (Stafford Newsletter, October 13, 1978)

This newsletter reports a 'flood' of calls to British UFO research association member Tony Pace following a previous report of an apparent UFO. A common sighting on Thursday night involved a circle of flashing lights, surrounded by green and red lights. Stafford couple Ian and Karen Rock and siblings Melanie and Andrew Gray reported similar sightings. Mr. Roy Smith also reported seeing lights. Mr. Pace is collating information and appealed for accurate descriptions. Other sightings included a 'fluorescent strip of light' seen by Dennis Booth, and a 'triangle of lights' with green and red sides. David and Anne Simkins reported seeing two bright lights going up into the sky that lit up their garden.

'I Saw UFOs' (Bristol Evening Post, September 27, 1978)

A man from Bristol, Kenneth Overett, claimed to have spotted four UFOs over Whitehall. He described them as black objects like inverted saucers, about 12,000 feet up in the sky.

Now Stanmore Firemen Get Their Sights on UFOs (Harrow Observer, October 20, 1978)

Six members of Stanmore fire station's Blue Watch reported seeing a UFO. Fireman Geoff Davies and Leading Fireman Alan Lee described seeing a shooting star followed by another object hovering in the sky with different coloured lights. They noted it made no noise and moved very slowly. Fireman Stuart Towell believes it was something unusual, as a plane could not remain stationary for so long without noise. Mrs. Patricia Jenkins also reported seeing a similar object over North Harrow.

News from Liphook: Dazzling Static Object Rose and Disappeared Into Sky... (Haslemere Herald, August 4, 1978)

Margaret Miles reported a unique experience while travelling back to Liphook. She described a piercing orange glow, almost round and static, which then took on a dazzling white brightness before disappearing. Her companions, Mrs. Rose Coburn and Dena Clarke, also witnessed the event, with Mrs. Coburn having had a similar experience in 1972. The report mentions enquiries with the Ministry of Defence and contact with an organization called Space Quest. The article also includes a philosophical reflection on UFOs and extraterrestrial existence by a retired lay preacher.

U.F.O. dans le ciel de Tarbes (Le Figaro, Paris, France, July 20, 1978 - translated)

The Gendarmerie of Tarbes reported a UFO sighting case on the night of July 10-11, involving four youths and their instructor. They described witnessing 'a genuine ballet of flying saucers'. The objects were described as luminous, not of enormous dimensions, and not appearing to be occupied by humans. One object was a sphere with red and blue lights, another was elongated with lights, and a third was rectangular with a dazzling yellow light. The Gendarmerie considered the testimonies serious, a view corroborated by experts from C.N.E.S. (National Space Studies Center), who found the observations interesting due to the concordance of accounts, accuracy of details, and distance of sighting, despite the lack of physical traces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout these articles is the increase in reported UFO sightings and the public's growing interest in the phenomenon. Several articles highlight the involvement of UFO research organizations in investigating these claims, suggesting a serious approach to collecting and analyzing eyewitness accounts. The editorial stance, as inferred from the reporting, is generally open to the possibility of UFOs, presenting eyewitness testimonies without immediate dismissal, while also acknowledging that many sightings can be explained by conventional phenomena like aircraft or atmospheric conditions. There's an underlying sense of mystery and wonder surrounding these unexplained aerial events.