APCIC - Vol 04 No 02 - 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center's publication, dated February 1979, presents a collection of UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across various locations. The cover prominently features the word "UFO" with headlines highlighting sightings in Lake Michigan and Brazil, along with a general announcement of "More UFO Sightings Revealed."

Key Articles and Reports

Harford County, USA: More UFOs Sighted, One Follows Auto

This article details two separate UFO sightings in Harford County. Susan Morris of Whiteford reported a UFO that followed her car from Aberdeen to Route 136, describing it as two bands of lights, one greenish-blue and the other white. She stated she had never believed in UFOs until this experience. Another sighting occurred in the Baldwin area, where Nancy Saxton and her son reported seeing two clusters of lights, blueish-green and yellowish-white, hovering at treetop level. The article notes a recent "rash of UFO sightings" in Harford County, including a report from several weeks prior where approximately 28 individuals saw a UFO on Jarrettsville Pike, described as triangular and hovering at treetop level.

Williamson, W. Va., USA: UFO's are reported in three areas

This report covers multiple UFO sightings in the Tug Valley area. Barbara Goble described an object that was large and round with bright red and blue lights, visible for only a few seconds. Mike Triplett of WFJT radio relayed this report. Additionally, a Delbarton housewife reported seeing strange lights over the mountains, described as "high above the stars." An employee of a garbage service also reported seeing what he thought might have been a shooting star. Sightings were also reported in the Matewan area, near Holden, and along Corridor G.

Elyria, Ohio, USA: Ridgeville youth also saw UFO

This article recounts the experience of 11-year-old Matthew Moore, who saw an object that looked like a "big, round, bright star" but was much larger and had a small tail behind it, described as "the color of fire." He saw it hovering for about two minutes. His description closely matched that of a jailer from Lorain Police Department who had also spotted a UFO. The article notes that the jailer's sighting was similar to a UFO photograph taken over Italy.

Tuscaloosa, Ala., USA: Venus or a UFO?

This piece discusses a sighting by W.A. Williams, who reported seeing an object in the sky that moved like "something I've never seen before" and "lit across the sky." State Troopers suggested it might have been Venus, but Williams and two boat crews expressed doubts. The object was described as a "great big dusty dome light or a falling star" that stopped and became very bright. The article explains that Venus can appear to move due to passing clouds and is known for its brightness in the eastern sky, especially during November and December.

Alamosa, Col., USA: Yuletide Sighting Wasn't A Star

Bob Trower and six other employees of Mountain Bell reported seeing a UFO described as a "silver wing-shaped kite" that was "way up there, way above the clouds." It remained visible for nearly three hours. Trower contacted the Weather Service and the Federal Aviation Administration, but no unusual activity was reported. The sighting occurred five days after a report linking cattle mutilations near Taos, N.M., with UFO sightings.

Freehold, N.J., USA: UFO sighting

Lawrence Rosner, a builder, reported seeing a "very white object" outlined against dark grey clouds while driving home. He noted that the driver of another car pointed out the object to their children, and the driver of that car also acknowledged seeing it. Rosner's wife stated he had never believed in such things before.

Española, N.M., USA: UFO Spotted By Guide Near Dulce

Joe Lucero, a guide on the Jicarilla Apache reservation, reported an unidentified flying object to state police. He described it as cigar-shaped and illuminated with yellow or orange light. It moved, stopped, and hovered over Horse Lake before disappearing. Lucero viewed it through binoculars and described it as a "sophisticated machine." Gabe Valdez, a State Police officer, confirmed another witness reported a similar machine.

Colorado Springs, Colo., USA: UFO Seen Over Springs

A prominent businessman in Colorado Springs reported seeing a "huge craft, glittering with banks of brilliant lights, and making a pulsating, whirring sound" from his Cheyenne Mountain home. He described it as cigar-shaped or saucer-shaped and very large, possibly a mile away initially. He expressed no fear, stating he felt "extremely privileged" and had "no doubt that it was people from outer space." He intends to research UFOs.

Roswell, N.M., USA: Officers View Luminous UFO Near Roswell

A sheriff's deputy, a state patrolman, and others reported seeing an unidentified flying object near Roswell. Initially thought to be a hillside fire, the object ascended slowly, was "blazing red," and then shrank in size and changed colors. Officers described it as "possibly revolving" with "red and blue light" within, and having a "wagon wheel shape." It was also observed east of Hagerman.

New Jersey, USA: UFO? Jersey shore cop saw 'circle of light' in sky

Lt. Joseph DeAngelo of the Brick Township police station reported seeing a "white circle of light" with "blue lights at either end" that hovered for nearly 40 minutes before disappearing. Other New Jersey residents also reported seeing a "strange object" that was bright, about the size of a blimp, and more rectangular than round. Officials at the Lakehurst Naval Engineering Center and McGuire Air Force Base reported no unusual activity.

Albert Lea, Minn., USA: UFO Reported To Sheriff

An Albert Lea man told deputies he saw an unidentified flying object heading south at high speed, described as three times the size of the North Star, with no blinking lights.

West Nashville, Tenn., USA: UFOs In West Nashville

This article discusses two strange lights seen over West Nashville, which police officers classified as Unidentified Flying Objects. The article notes that descriptions of UFOs are sometimes no more fantastic than the explanations, and mentions that President Carter reportedly saw a UFO in 1973.

New Zealand and Italy Reports

Reports from Wellington, New Zealand, mention Squadron Leader Jeff Clarke of the Ministry of Defense attributing sightings to temperature inversions and squid fishermen's lights, though radar did not pick up the objects. In Israel, police reported seeing three strange objects. Near Johannesburg, South Africa, a woman reported meeting "spacemen in pink uniforms" from an egg-shaped spaceship. In Kaikoura, New Zealand, a resident attributed sightings to "cabbages reflecting off the clouds." UFO fever is also sweeping Italy, with reports of cigar-shaped objects and encounters with "little green men." Hundreds in Naples reportedly saw a giant disc, which meteorologists attributed to a cloud.

NM cattle mangled by UFOs?

This extensive report details investigations into cattle mutilations in Northern New Mexico and Hereford, Texas. Tests conducted by a private laboratory showed that metallic, organic material found on the cattle hides and powder scooped up near reported UFO sightings were almost identical. Howard Burgess, a retired Sandia Laboratory scientist, has been investigating these incidents. The analysis revealed the substance contained a high amount of potassium and magnesium and was similar to Teflon material. The report notes that the injuries to the cattle are mystifying, with whole areas of tissue missing and cylindrical objects inserted into carcasses. The Apache Indians in the area are reportedly "hopping mad" about the mutilations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and their potential connection to other mysterious events like cattle mutilations. The publication, produced by the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center, appears to be a compilation of news reports from various sources, presenting a wide range of sightings and witness accounts. While some reports include official skepticism or alternative explanations (such as Venus or atmospheric conditions), the overall tone suggests an interest in exploring these phenomena seriously, with some individuals actively pursuing investigations. The emphasis on detailed witness descriptions and scientific analysis of physical evidence (like the metallic substances) indicates a commitment to documenting and understanding these events.

This issue of the Nashville Tennessean (dated January 5, 1979) focuses on a global surge in Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sightings, with the cover headline proclaiming, "Reports of UFOs: They're filling the skies." The publication compiles numerous accounts from various locations, suggesting a widespread phenomenon.

Nashville, Tennessee Sightings

The lead story details over a dozen reports from Nashville metro policemen who sighted two UFOs hovering approximately 5,000 feet above the western part of the city early on January 5, 1979. The objects were described as circular with red, blue, green, and yellow lights circling a large white light. Police checked with the Metro Nashville Airport, but no aircraft or weather balloons were reported in the area. Sgt. Doug Johnson, a helicopter pilot, stated he had never seen any aircraft like them. The objects reportedly hovered for 45 minutes before disappearing.

International Sightings

Reports from Israel describe a rash of UFO sightings, including a red globe seen over Haifa and sparkling red, blue, and purple lights over Jerusalem. In Jerusalem, police on duty saw three mysterious objects hovering at a high altitude. One policeman described them as "like a sparkling diamond in the sun," about the size of a large street lamp, moving up and down like an electrocardiogram reading. The Israeli air force reported no radar detection.

New Jersey Encounters

In Brick Town, New Jersey, a police officer investigating a report of a flying saucer also witnessed a "large balloon with a lot of lights" hovering high in the sky for about 20 minutes. Separately, in Newark, New Jersey, several individuals, including a Brick Township patrolman, reported seeing a UFO hovering over Barnegat Bay for about 40 minutes. A teenager and two friends initially reported a UFO, leading to an officer's observation of a stationary object with a white light and two small blue flashing lights.

Other US and International Reports

Reports from Winter Haven, Florida, and Nashville, Tennessee, indicate recent UFO sightings. Congressman Guy Vander Jagt is attempting to locate lost film of an alleged UFO sighting near Ludington, Michigan, which was reportedly misplaced by the Postal Service.

Specific Case Studies

London Mills, Illinois: Rhonda Brashear and Paula Helle reported seeing a tubular spacecraft on Rts. 116 and 97, described as almost the size of a private plane, hovering and circling their car at high speed with no noise.

Aransas Pass, Texas: Four local residents, including two police employees, reported sightings of a cigar-shaped object with a luminous green color that moved back and forth quickly before leaving. The object was described as flat and oblong.

Chicago, Illinois: The Adler Planetarium suggested that brilliant multicolored flashing trails seen in the Chicago skies were large meteors, or fireballs, rather than UFOs.

Peabody, Massachusetts: Two separate calls reported strange objects in the sky, described as dinner plates or coins, rising into the clouds and descending. One witness described an object as "bright mellow green" that transformed into a Saturn-like ring.

Lachine, Quebec, Canada: A resident reported seeing a strange light in the sky, initially thought to be an airplane, but which moved and appeared as a single large round light.

Ukiah, California: Five people reported a close encounter with two objects in the sky. One object was described as light blue and the other as bright mellow green, with the latter transforming and joining the first.

Park Ridge, Illinois: A second UFO sighting was reported over West Park, described as a "flashing and blinking" object that darted and circled.

UFOs and Natural Phenomena

Evansville, Indiana: The planet Venus, visible in the morning sky, is suggested as a possible explanation for sightings of a bright object. Reports of a "white, bright object" and a "jetstream" were possibly related to cloud formations illuminated by the setting sun.

Golden, Colorado: A theory is presented that some UFO sightings might be swarms of insects caught in an electric field, creating glowing effects. This theory is advanced by an entomologist and a physicist.

UFOs and Cattle Mutilations

Taos, New Mexico: A mysterious powder found after a possible UFO sighting on a truck was analyzed and found to contain high levels of potassium and magnesium. This substance was also found on cattle from ranches where mutilations had occurred, suggesting a potential link.

Other Reports

Oshawa Times, Ontario, Canada: Paul Chorney and two friends photographed two objects they believe are UFOs. The objects were described as a flat disc with white light and later as two white objects in a photograph.

The Globe & Mail, Toronto, Canada: Jim and Kathy Balfour reported seeing a strange light in the sky, described as pulsating and teardrop-shaped, which later appeared to be snow-making equipment. Other reports in the area mentioned multiple UFOs.

Middleton, Nova Scotia, Canada: A truck driver reported being paced by a bluish-green light that hovered and moved erratically. Another case involved three trucks enveloped in a bright blue light, causing their motors to sputter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights a global increase in UFO sightings, with a variety of descriptions and behaviors reported. Several articles explore potential explanations, ranging from natural phenomena like the planet Venus and cloud formations to more speculative theories involving insect swarms. The connection between UFOs and cattle mutilations is also investigated. The overall tone suggests a fascination with the unexplained, while also presenting rational explanations where possible. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena and exploring various perspectives, from eyewitness accounts to scientific and governmental inquiries.

This issue of The Toronto Sun, dated January 7, 1979, features a prominent cover story about a secret French government UFO report. The issue also includes numerous reports of UFO sightings from various locations in Canada and the United States.

French UFO Report: Someone's Watching Us

The lead article, by Terence Dickinson, details a secret French government study of eleven UFO close encounters. The study concluded that the observed objects were material phenomena that could not be explained by natural events or human devices, possessing unknown modes of sustenance and propulsion. This is noted as the first instance of a government-sponsored research reaching such a conclusion. The report's summary was leaked, and the research was described by one scientist as "extremely high quality," making the U.S. Air Force's Condon Report seem "very poor" by comparison. The 11 cases, spanning 1966 to 1978, were chosen due to the high credibility of witnesses and sightings from less than 250 meters. Two cases included descriptions of humanoid creatures. The scientific study group was created in 1977 and alerted to new cases by the national police force. The investigations involved scientists from various disciplines, including psychologists who conducted evaluations of witness testimony. The scientific board that approved the conclusions is composed of members from prestigious institutions like the National Meteorology Administration, Lyon Astronomical Observatory, and Paris University's Social Psychology Centre.

UFO Sightings Across North America

The issue is replete with reports of UFO sightings from late 1978 and early 1979:

Barrie, Ontario

Two residents of Letitia Heights, Barrie, reported being awakened by an unidentified flying object on January 5, 1979. Don Dinwoodie described a strange whirring noise and a light in the sky, which he and his mother-in-law identified as a UFO. The object was visible for almost an hour, appearing to brighten and dim. Dinwoodie estimated it was about two miles in the air and two miles from his house, south of Barrie. Local police and military bases reported no sightings.

Toronto, Ontario

On January 7, 1979, Kathleen Balfour and her husband Jim reported seeing a blinding white light hovering over trees in Toronto at 2:15 a.m. They described it as an ice-cream cone on its side, with two smaller objects emerging from its side, followed by another large one. They contacted Downsview Canadian Forces Base. A military spokesman suggested it was a snowblower being used to prepare a ski hill, an explanation the Balfours rejected.

Peterborough, Ontario

James Todd of Big Bald Lake near Buckhorn reported a UFO sighting on January 10, 1979. He and his wife Anna had observed similar objects for three consecutive nights. They described a third sighting as oval-shaped, changing shape, with legs on the bottom and a tower, unlike any aircraft. Todd, who has seen over 30 UFOs since 1974, reported the information to the air base at Trenton.

Brampton, Ontario

On January 8, 1979, a Toronto couple, Jim and Kathy Balfour, reported seeing a pulsating, tear-drop shaped light hovering over a ski hill for nearly an hour. They described it as an unidentified flying object, though investigating military police suggested it was snow-making equipment. The object reportedly shot up thousands of meters, turned bright orange, and was joined by other cylindrical objects before disappearing.

New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

A bright light in the southwestern sky on December 7, 1978, was identified by astronomers as the planet Venus. However, RCMP received calls from people who believed they were seeing a UFO.

Muncie, Indiana

Reports of UFO sightings in Muncie, Indiana, were attributed to the planet Venus, which was visible in the southeastern sky before sunrise. Police dispatcher Harley Allen noted callers described objects falling to earth or making noises, but police saw only Venus. F.H. Arthur, director of the Muncie Community Schools planetarium, explained that Venus can appear exceptionally bright under certain weather conditions.

Hyde Park, New York

Three residents of the Dutchess Garden apartment complex in Hyde Park reported seeing a large, elliptical object on October 15, 1978. The description matched a UFO reported in New Jersey. Dr. Gary Levine of the UFO Network called the sighting "very interesting" and noted an unusual number of UFO sightings occur during full moons.

Hopkinsville, Kentucky

At least five reports of UFO sightings were received by the sheriff's office on December 23, 1978. Callers described seeing something mysterious off Interstate 24 that looked like a star but moved too fast. Fort Campbell officials reported no scheduled air activity at the time.

Pascagoula, Mississippi

Several residents reported seeing strange objects in the sky in Jackson County over the weekend of December 20, 1978. One report described a "red ball of fire" seen on Saturday night and Monday night, remaining visible for a long period. Another resident encountered a large white light.

Jersey City, New Jersey

Joseph Frank and his family reported seeing a "strange" object on January 5, 1979, described as a brightly lit, rectangular object similar to a blimp, moving up and down like a helicopter. Police Sergeant Charles Kelly reported an "excited citizen" saw a "flying saucer" that was stationary with many lights. The officer observed it for about 20 minutes. Investigations with the Coast Guard and naval stations found no unusual activity.

Bridgeton, New Jersey

Four members of a Jersey City family also reported seeing a UFO on January 5, 1979, similar to the one seen in Jersey City. They described it as a brightly lit object, rectangular rather than round, moving up and down swiftly. They also heard of a similar report from Brick Town, where a police sergeant observed a stationary object with many lights.

Hudson, New York

George O'Barski, a 72-year-old resident, reported seeing a UFO on January 13, 1978, in North Hudson Park. He described a large, bright object that hovered about 10 feet above the ground, with uniformed figures descending from it. He found about 15 small holes where the object had landed. A doorman at the Stonehenge apartment complex corroborated his account.

Jerusalem

Israelis reported seeing three bright objects hovering and zigzagging through the skies over Jerusalem on December 23, 1978.

Johannesburg, South Africa

A former nurse and her son reported seeing half a dozen "beings" in front of a craft illuminated by pink lights on a lonely road.

Sturbridge, Massachusetts

The Center for UFO Studies sought witnesses who saw a UFO on January 5, 1979, on the Massachusetts Turnpike. A woman reported seeing not just a light but "a machine" over the woods. The center is interested in "close encounters of the first, second and third kinds" and seeks descriptions of "machines."

Springfield, Massachusetts

Three teen-agers claimed to have witnessed a four-minute chase of a red light by a jet aircraft over Springfield on Tuesday night. They described the red light as moving too fast to be a helicopter or flare. The FAA and military bases reported no unusual sightings or radar activity.

Demopolis, Alabama

Several residents reported spotting an unidentified flying object on the west end of town on Sunday morning, January 7, 1979. Descriptions included a triangular object glowing bright white, hovering over trees, and a large, bright object moving southeast. Police reports described a large, bright object hovering about 50 feet off the ground. A radio operator also reported seeing a bright object. Some residents expressed fear, while others were skeptical but intrigued.

Rockledge, Florida

Craig Hoot reported seeing seven flying objects on January 7, 1979, near the Rockledge Quarry. He described them as "stars" that got closer and then left, possibly looking for a place to land. Retired Air Force Col. William T. Coleman suggested that planets and satellites are visible and could be mistaken for UFOs. Hoot estimated the objects were about 5,000 feet off the ground.

Larchmont, New York

Vincent Wynds, a wrestling coach, and two students reported seeing an unidentified flying object on January 7, 1979, hovering briefly over Weaver Street. They described a transparent triangular configuration with brilliant lights, and later a roughly-pentagon shape with numerous lights. They noted a plane appeared to be pursuing the object. Wynds planned to file a formal report with police.

Ocean County, New Jersey

Approximately 100 residents reported seeing a round, yellow-white object hovering over Barnegat Bay on January 3-4, 1979, with lights dancing around it. Some reports indicated the UFO was visible for almost 45 minutes. Spokesmen for aviation facilities and military bases reported no unexplained activity or radar anomalies.

Mamaroneck, New York

Six witnesses came forward to support a report of a UFO hovering over Weaver Street. Charles Comblo Jr. reported seeing the same object two years prior. Mrs. X reported seeing the object with her family and decided to report it after reading about another sighting. The object was described as flying below clouds, chased by a propeller-powered plane and an F-4 Phantom jet fighter.

Worcester, Massachusetts

Raymond Fowler of the Center for UFO Studies is seeking witnesses to a UFO sighting on January 5, 1979, on the Massachusetts Turnpike. He is interested in "close encounters" and descriptions of "machines."

Demopolis, Alabama (Second Report)

A Sunday visit by a "strange phenomenon" stirred speculation about extraterrestrial beings. The article notes that while witnesses may have seen something, it can likely be explained scientifically. However, the possibility of alien craft is acknowledged.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent reports of UFO sightings from around the world and the growing interest in investigating these phenomena. The French government's official study lends significant weight to the subject. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, acknowledging the possibility of unexplained aerial phenomena while also considering scientific explanations and the potential for misidentification. The articles often highlight the credibility of witnesses and the detailed nature of their accounts, suggesting a serious approach to the subject matter.

This issue of the STATE GAZETTE, dated January 5, 1979, features a prominent headline "UFO Reported" and details several sightings of unidentified flying objects across the United States and internationally.

Dyersburg UFO Sighting

The lead story by Michael Kestner reports on a UFO sighting by Dyersburg residents Ann and her husband. Ann Black described seeing a large, bright white light that moved west at high speed, then turned red and split into two lights before turning north. She initially hesitated to report it, fearing ridicule, but heard similar reports from Nashville.

Nashville police received nine reports of bright objects moving in a north to northwest direction between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. the previous day. Ken Leggett, manager of Perkins Aviation, noted that Dyersburg had a 5,000 ft. ceiling at the time, meaning any object seen would have to be below that altitude. Mrs. Black stated they observed the phenomenon for about five minutes.

Rock Rapids UFO Sighting

In Rock Rapids, Iowa, Sheriff Craig Vinson and several deputies observed an unidentified flying object shortly after midnight on Friday. Sheriff Vinson suggested it might have been a bright star or planet, with atmospheric conditions potentially creating colored effects. The object was visible over a large area and was also observed by people in Sioux Falls.

Tucson UFO Debate

A report from the Tucson Daily Citizen on January 3, 1979, discusses a UFO debate. Squadron leader Ray Carran of the Royal New Zealand Air Force suggested that recent reports of flying saucers along the New Zealand coastline might be the lights of Japanese squid boats. His crew did not see any unidentified flying objects during a patrol. Film footage of purported UFOs over New Zealand had been shown on television in Britain and Australia.

Des Plaines UFO Report

The Des Plaines, Illinois TIMES, dated January 4, 1979, reports on a UFO sighting by a man and his 21-year-old son. They described a bright green light, oval-shaped, moving west at speeds of 200 mph or more, about 500 feet above treetops. Police Sgt. Walter Lang identified a similar green light seen around the same time as a meteor, a conclusion supported by O'Hare Field personnel and the Adler Planetarium, which noted a rare display of bright fireballs.

Hitchin UFO Sighting

The WREXHAM EVENING LEADER reports on November 2, 1978, that four police officers in Hitchin, UK, saw a UFO on New Year's Eve around 7:20 p.m. WPC Fay Briggs described a bright blue and white ball-shaped object flying very low, only 20 feet above her head. She found it frightening and noted it was moving faster than any aircraft she had seen. Another officer described the object as pulsating with red, green, and white lights. A spokesman for the Meteorological Office stated that white, red, and green lights typically indicate an aeroplane, but not at such a low altitude. Heathrow's control tower reported no unusual radar activity.

West Nashville UFO Sightings

The NASHVILLE BANNER, dated January 4, 1979, details a report of two strange, unidentified flying objects seen over West Nashville around 3 a.m. by Metro police officers and Tennessee Highway Patrol officers. Lieutenant Robert "Buddy" Ezell, a skeptic, described the objects as round, glittering like the tip end of a sparkler, with a white light on top and a red flashing beacon in the center. The bottom part had a bluish-green light. Ezell and other officers watched the objects from a parking lot. A pilot for WSM radio flew over the area but saw nothing. Air traffic controllers at Metro Nashville Airport also reported no sightings or radar detection. A police dispatcher contacted UFO Centro about the sighting. Ezell followed one object westbound on Interstate 40 until it disappeared from view.

Yonkers UFO Sighting

The HERALD STATESMAN (Yonkers, N.Y.), dated January 4, 1979, features a report from Christine Phillip about Jill Shifrin seeing an unusually bright star-like object with six points coming from the west. She watched it from her window. A police spokesman had not received calls, but Bruce Riggs, a planetarium lecturer, suggested it was likely the planet Venus, explaining that its appearance and the perceived points could be illusions created by looking through glass.

Stafford UFO Sighting Revives Memories

The STAFFORD NEWSLETTER (England), dated October 27, 1978, reports on a UFO sighting by 12-year-old Shaun Salmon, who saw an object with four red lights in an oblong shape, emitting sparks. This sighting brought back memories for his neighbor, Jessie Roestenburg, who was involved in a classic UFO experience in the 1950s. She described a massive, bright silver object like a sombrero, tilted at an angle, with figures wearing blue polonecks and glass bowls over their heads.

Suffolk UFO Sightings

The IPSWICH EVENING STAR (Suffolk, England), dated October 25, 1978, mentions police probing new UFO sightings in the Lowestoft-Beccles area. However, police suggested it was likely due to night flying exercises from RAF Woodbridge, involving aircraft with spotlights and projecting pencil-type beams.

Isle of Wight UFO Sighting

The ISLE OF WIGHT COUNTY PRESS, dated October 21, 1978, includes a letter from Mrs. E. Brignall regarding a "bright and large double light" seen on October 8. She described it as flashing on and off, visible overhead, and then a seemingly answering twin light was seen across the water.

North Warwickshire UFO Sighting

The NUNEATON EVENING TRIBUNE (England), dated October 25, 1978, reports dozens of people saw a large, brightly-lit craft. Ice-cream salesman Peter Hutton described it as unlike a plane, hovering with dimming and brightening lights. Most callers were from Nuneaton, but sightings were also reported in Bedworth, Hinckley, and Atherstone. Tony Hiatt, a schoolboy, expressed his newfound belief in UFOs after seeing the object. Jeff Taylor is investigating the sightings.

Leicestershire UFO Report

The LEICESTER MERCURY, dated October 30, 1978, states that over 200 people reported seeing a delta-shaped unidentified flying object. Trevor Thornton, organizer of the Leicester branch of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon Research Organisation, called it the largest number of calls they had received. The object was described as delta-shaped with a mass of lights and was sighted between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Enfield UFO Riddle

The ENFIELD GAZETTE & OBSERVER (Middlesex, England), dated October 26, 1978, reports on a glowing yellow diamond-shaped object with four flashing white dots seen by storeman Robert Huttlestone. He appealed for other witnesses. A local policeman suggested it might have been a high-flying student from the Polytechnic. UFO expert Dan Goring noted Enfield is particularly rich in UFO sightings.

French UFO Reports

Several articles detail UFO sightings in France:

• "NOSTRA" (Paris, France, Nov. 2, 1978): An airline pilot reported seeing an object with a spherical shape and yellow-orange color, shining like platinum, with orange exhausts that left no tracks. The sighting lasted about 1 minute and 30 seconds.
• "LE BIEN PUBLIC" (Nevers, France, Nov. 3, 1978): Two young girls camping in Dun-les-Places saw a red light and heard a shrill whizzing. Gendarmes found a track shaped like a football, about 5 meters long. Other witnesses, including a restaurant owner, also reported seeing the phenomenon.
• "LA NOUVELLE REPUBLIQUE DU CENTER" (Bourges, France, Nov. 9, 1978): A woman from Bessay saw a UFO composed of two incandescent disks flying at an altitude of 500m.
• "NOSTRA" (Paris, France, Nov. 8, 1978): Witnesses in La Mure town reported a UFO with a spherical shape and yellow-orange color on September 14. On September 15, an inhabitant from Susville village saw an egg-shaped object with an orange tint that emitted a bright white beam, causing eye smarting.
• "LA NOUVELLE REPUBLIQUE DU CENTER" (Bourges, France, Nov. 9, 1978): A woman from Vierzon described an object shaped like a torpedo that was giving fire and flames from its rear.
• "LE PARISIEN" (Paris, France, Dec. 13, 1978): A family near Châlons-sur-Marne reported seeing a luminous orange ball for 15 minutes. They followed the silent, oscillating object, which disappeared towards the south.

Surrey UFO Sightings

The WINDSOR EXPRESS (Eton, England), dated October 27, 1978, reports police officers in Surrey saw an unidentified flying object. Reports came from Egham and Addlestone, describing a mysterious flying object with red and green lights and a white glow, traveling at high speed. Another report described a blue and white object emitting a bright light. The Ministry of Defence was awaiting a full report.

The SURREY HERALD (Chertsey, England), dated November 2, 1978, details a mystery light spotted over Molesey, baffling UFO experts. A red and green ball of light was seen by Miss Sarah Yapp and her boyfriend, and a similar sighting was made by 12 police officers the day before. Sarah described the light hovering, then shooting off towards Hampton Court, appearing to chase an aeroplane.

The SURREY DAILY ADVERTISER (Guildford, England), dated October 25, 1978, reports a multi-coloured UFO seen over Surrey by three patrolling police crews. The object was described as green and red. Strange noises were also reported in Ash and Aldershot.

West Virginia UFO Sightings

The WREXHAM EVENING LEADER (England), dated October 24, 1978, mentions bright objects in the skies of West Virginia puzzling state police. Corporal Don Sharpe reported seeing seven objects for about 30 minutes. In Kanawha County alone, over 30 reports of sightings were received, describing hovering or slow-moving objects with green, blue, white, and red or yellow lights. Most indicated at least three objects traveling together. Mr. Robert Brown suggested weather might be an explanation.

Sheffield UFO Sighting

THE STAR (Sheffield, England), dated November 1, 1978, reports on housewife Evelyn Whiteway's fourth sighting of an unidentified flying object. She described a silver cigar-shaped object passing over her house and a subsequent encounter where a cigar-shaped object came underneath a plane. She has ordered a detector from the British UFO Society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the reporting of numerous UFO sightings from diverse locations, often involving bright lights, unusual shapes, and high speeds. The articles present these sightings as factual accounts from witnesses, including police officers and ordinary citizens. While some reports offer potential conventional explanations (meteors, aircraft, atmospheric conditions), many are left unexplained, fueling public curiosity and investigation by UFO research groups. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting these phenomena without overt skepticism, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

This issue of the Northern Despatch, dated November 1, 1978, features a prominent cover story about an 11-year-old boy named John Anderton who claims to have photographed a flying saucer in Etherley. The magazine includes various other reports of UFO sightings from across the UK, primarily from late 1978 and early 1979.

Mister Spaceman pays a call - and John snaps it up

The lead story details young John Anderton's encounter with a mysterious object on a clear, broad daylight. He described it as a circular, flat object with a dome in the centre, surrounded by a white glow, flying low over the trees near his home. John managed to capture two photographs of the object on colour film. His mother, Jean, initially dismissed his claims, telling him not to waste film. John, who is a science fiction reader and aspires to be a fighter pilot, is certain he wasn't imagining things, though he admits he doesn't fully believe in UFOs. His father, engineer Peter Anderton, is more sceptical but acknowledges that John's photo clearly shows a standard flying saucer shape. He commented that if John had faked it, it would have been better.

The article also mentions Chrysis, a North East voluntary organisation that monitors UFO sightings. Shirley Coles, a member from Redcar, stated that UFO sightings in the North East are on the increase, with about five percent of reports being unexplainable. Chrysis is collaborating with Keele University to analyze Ufology data. Further information about the group can be obtained from 48 Britannia Place, Dormanstown, Redcar.

Other UFO Sightings Reported

The issue contains numerous other reports of UFO sightings from various locations in the UK, spanning late 1978 and early 1979:

Lancashire UFO Alert (January 2, 1979)

UFO hunters in North East Lancashire were alerted after a new sighting on the moors above Darwen and Burnley. Police received numerous calls, with Burnley police alone taking 30 calls in an hour. Two policemen witnessed the object. John Shannon, a driving instructor from Tockholes, described seeing a shooting star-like object with a tail three times its own length, emitting sparks but no noise. Radar operators at Manchester Airport also picked up an object on their screens.

Essex UFO Mystery (November 16, 1978)

Reports of UFOs in South-East Essex have increased, with three objects spotted in a week. UFO researcher Andy Collins noted that many more sightings may have occurred but people are embarrassed to report them. Sightings included a horseshoe-shaped orange light over the estuary, two bright lights hovering off Southend Pier, and a bright orange ball of fire seen by the Hawkes family.

Wrexham Women Report UFO 'Sightings' (November 14, 1978)

Women in Wrexham reported sightings of UFOs. Mrs Claire Roberts saw star-like objects, Mrs Jane Bromfield reported a sighting near her home, and Mrs Kathleen Roberts saw lights in the sky. Mrs Kathleen Green also saw mysterious lights from her bedroom window.

Cumbria UFO Viewers (January 5, 1979)

Despite official explanations of meteorites, witnesses in South Cumbria remain unconvinced by UFO sightings on New Year's Eve. A Kendal man described an object moving horizontally like the back end of a rocket. A Stainton man saw a "white globule with a long flame tail." Two printers from the Westmorland Gazette reported seeing a vertical gold coloured object and a similar object with a long tail.

Bayford UFO Sighting (January 5, 1979)

A cigar-shaped UFO with a strong light at the front was sighted at Bayford. Mrs Auriel Mason described it as travelling horizontally at low altitude with many tiny lights along its body. She noted it was similar to a Crewe sighting and stated she had seen about four unidentified flying objects in the past.

Bournemouth Couple Spot UFO (January 5, 1979)

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Brewin of Bournemouth saw a "throbbing white light" in the sky, which they described as not being aircraft lights. The object hovered and glowed brightly before disappearing.

Black Spacemen (January 5, 1979)

A report from Johannesburg claims a white South African woman and her son saw an alien craft land and six dark-skinned creatures emerge.

Jet Drama UFO (November 23, 1978)

A UFO was reported to be on a collision course with an airliner landing at Rome. The object was described as a "great big globule of light" but did not appear on radar.

Bury St Edmunds UFO Mystery (January 5, 1979)

Mrs Rosemary Carr saw one, then two strange objects in the sky early on Wednesday morning. She described them as "shimmering" and very bright, moving at high speeds in different directions.

London Heathrow Airport UFO Riddle (November 26, 1978)

A mysterious triangular light over Heathrow Airport caused a UFO scare. Passengers and staff reported the light hovering erratically for about twenty minutes. Air traffic control reported nothing on radar.

Selsey Couple Frightened by UFO (November 16, 1978)

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Hughes of Selsey reported a frightening encounter with an unidentified flying object. They saw strange lights low in the sky, which then accelerated towards them. Similar sightings were reported in the area.

Children See a Saucer? (November 17, 1978)

Children at Brockham reported seeing a round, "metal looking" object moving at high speed on Sunday morning. They described it as definitely not an aeroplane.

Livingston UFO Sighting (November 18, 1978)

Schoolchildren at Craigshill High School in Livingston saw a saucer-shaped UFO from their classroom. They described beams of light coming from it, and that it glinted in the sunlight before disappearing.

Tonbridge Mystery Light (November 17, 1978)

An amber light, the size of a moving tennis ball, was seen over Bewl Beech Reservoir. Brad Wood reported seeing a "little disc-shaped silver thing" moving erratically.

Kinross UFO Over Kinross (January 5, 1979)

A UFO was seen in Kinross on New Year's Eve, described as large and oval-shaped with a bright shining light and a white streaming tail. Police contacted RAF Leuchars, who suggested it might be a re-entry particle.

Long Melford UFO Sighting (January 5, 1979)

A Long Melford councillor, Richard Kemp, reported seeing a large bright object in the sky on New Year's Eve. He described it as "obviously of considerable size" but with no sound.

Staffordshire UFO Sightings (January 4, 1979)

Further sightings of unidentified flying objects were reported over Staffordshire. Mrs. Angela Bacanin of Bentilee filmed an object described as a brilliant white, round object moving in an undulating trajectory with no sound. Mr. B. Darby reported a similar object at Hanford, described as having a brilliant orange head and flame-like appearance.

Did You See UFO's? (January 3, 1979)

Mark Pritchard of the British UFO Association is seeking witnesses to sightings of flashing lights across the heavens over the weekend. He noted that the end of the year is typically the most productive time for sightings.

Shropshire and Surrounding Counties Mystery (January 3, 1979)

Reports of "UFO" sightings in Shropshire and surrounding counties are detailed. An object described as a light aircraft in flames was seen by police patrols. Other reports included a bright white light with smaller lights and orange sparks.

Norfolk Flying Object Mystery (January 2, 1979)

A great flying object mystery moved to Norfolk, with an object throwing out bright lights and approximately 200 yards long seen off the coast. Coastguards at Cromer saw it through high-powered equipment, describing it as a "spaceship" with bands of whitish light. Pilots also reported sightings.

More UFOs Spotted Over Norfolk (January 4, 1979)

More sightings of unidentified flying objects over Norfolk were reported. John Pooler described a very bright object travelling at enormous speed. Rosemary Fitchett, a schoolgirl, described a brightly coloured object she watched for about three hours.

Wausau UFO Spotted (December 29, 1978)

An unidentified flying object was reported in Wausau, Wisconsin. Mrs. Bernice Rainville saw a space vehicle of amber color with a propeller on top.

Barrow UFO Sightings (January 2, 1979)

Several people in the Barrow area reported seeing unidentified flying objects on Sunday night, New Year's Eve. Mr William Sproat and his passengers saw an oval shape, brilliantly lit, "throwing a long tail behind it, all flames." A Barrow housewife described a "bright thing going across the sky," like a large airliner going low, with a long silvery tail.

Harlow Close Encounter (January 5, 1979)

People in Harlow are asking if a strange object seen in the night sky was a UFO, space debris, or an aircraft. A security officer described an object illuminated with a tail of shimmering light, which accelerated at terrific speed.

Liverpool UFO Spotters (January 9, 1979)

Contact International reports an "unprecedented" number of UFO sightings. Their data research man received 185 calls in 36 hours. A policeman in Northants reported seeing an enormous silver cylinder in the sky.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread reports of UFO sightings across the UK, particularly around New Year's Eve 1978/1979. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these events, often highlighting witness accounts and the lack of definitive explanations, while also including sceptical viewpoints and potential scientific explanations such as meteorites or satellite re-entries. The inclusion of a child witness and photographic evidence in the lead story suggests an attempt to lend credibility to the phenomenon, while the variety of locations and descriptions indicates a broad interest in the subject matter. The articles often conclude by noting that the phenomena remain unexplained or have been passed on to UFO research organizations.

This document comprises scanned pages from several local English newspapers published in early January 1979, primarily focusing on UFO sightings. The main article, from the WREXHAM LEADER (dated January 5, 1979), details a sighting by a local priest and his father-in-law. Other reports are from the LUTON EVENING POST (January 4, 1979), CUMBERLAND EVENING NEWS (January 5, 1979), OXFORD MAIL (January 3, 1979), and BRACKNELL NEWS (January 4, 1979).

Wrexham Sighting: Priest Spots UFO

The WREXHAM LEADER reports on a UFO sighting that occurred just hours before a radar-confirmed UFO was shown on television news on New Year's Eve. Rev Terry Henderson, priest of St John's, Rhosnesni, and his father-in-law, Mr Bill Finbow, witnessed a 'very bright, vivid shape streaking across the sky' around 7 p.m. after an evening service. Mr Finbow described it as being 'just like an inter city train in form and shape' and about the length of a five or six carriage train, with a 'very bright, silvery light.' Mr Finbow, a schoolteacher, called Rev Henderson, who was scraping ice off his car. They both observed the object moving on a 'definite course, not like a falling star.' Mr Finbow lost track of it behind houses but Rev Henderson noted it was 'quite incredible and did not appear to be a comet or a meteorite. It seemed so close you could pick out details like the windows.' Two women from the church and a couple who had parked their car also reported seeing the object.

Separately, Mr John Maelor Davies, of Caergwrle, reported seeing a 'big ball of light' over Cheshire. He described it as 'cylindrical shaped in front, like a cigar' with a 'big trail of sparks a couple of hundred yards long.' He stated it was moving from left to right across the Cheshire boundary, making no noise, and appeared to be very high up.

Luton and Hemel Hempstead Sightings

The LUTON EVENING POST (January 4, 1979) covers local sightings. Mr Frank Karran of Leverstock Green, Hemel Hempstead, is convinced he saw a UFO, describing a 'Large, bright, shining star' around 8 p.m. on Tuesday. He reported it to the police, who confirmed it was a definite sighting. He watched it for 40 minutes and believed it was too fast to be Venus.

Mr Chris Hart of Houghton Regis saw a 'trail of smoke hanging in the air' over Dunstable Downs, which moved like a jet aircraft before disappearing. Mrs Beryl Bashford of Gadebridge, Hemel Hempstead, described seeing something 'like the Star of Bethlehem' at 6:15 a.m. on December 29, which remained stationary for about 35 minutes.

Carlisle Sighting: Child's Account

The CUMBERLAND EVENING NEWS (January 5, 1979) features a 'Letter to the Editor' from 12-year-old Allison Crellin. She recounts seeing a 'bright orange object hovering' on Saturday, December 30, around 5:20 p.m., while travelling between Moresby and Frizington. She described the object as 'more like a long red dull light that was stringed with portholes and lit up with a orange light.' She noted there was no noise and no sign of smoke. The object was 'very high in the sky, higher than I have ever seen a helicopter.' She observed it moving slowly towards Workington.

Oxford Sightings: UFO Mystery

The OXFORD MAIL (January 3, 1979) reports on two 'Oxon sightings.' Mrs Doreen Smith, 46, a housewife from North Oxfordshire, who had just returned from London, resolved 'never disbelieve reports of UFOs' after witnessing an object above her home at 33 Mascord Road. She described it as 'travelling much faster than a plane ever could,' with 'flames shooting out of the front and white vapour from the back.' She stated, 'I have always been sceptical about UFOs but now I have changed my mind.' Her son David and nephew Graham also saw the object, which travelled from north to south before disappearing behind clouds.

Only a few hours later, Mrs Freda Keenes, whose husband Terry runs a fashion jewellery business in Banbury, woke at 5 a.m. to see 'a strange object' in the sky over the Ruscote estate. She described it as 'four times brighter and bigger than a star' and watched it for 20 minutes. Her husband noticed it had moved to the right before it disappeared behind trees. Both were shocked and contacted the police. A police spokesman confirmed both sightings had been reported.

Bracknell Sighting: UFO Reported Over Town

The BRACKNELL NEWS (January 4, 1979) reports on a sighting by Alan Nash, a Post Office engineer from Great Hollands, Bracknell. He went into his garden at 11:20 a.m. on Saturday and saw 'a big ball of fire high in the sky.' He described it as a 'brilliant light lasting for some three seconds' that fell towards Binfield. The report notes there were no other similar reports to the police or the Meteorological Office, and Mr Nash has no explanation, believing he saw 'a flying saucer of some kind.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme across all these reports is the widespread reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena in early January 1979. The articles present witness accounts without overt skepticism, often quoting individuals who have changed their minds from being doubters to believers. The tone is generally factual, relaying the descriptions and experiences of ordinary citizens, including a priest, a child, and a housewife. There is an implicit acknowledgment of the growing public interest in UFOs, especially following the mention of a 'radar-confirmed unidentified flying object' on television news. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting these events and the public's reaction to them, allowing the witness accounts to speak for themselves.