APCIC - Vol 04 No 06 - 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.I.C.I.C.) is dated June 1979, Volume Four, No. 6. The cover prominently features the word "UFO" with the number "79" and headlines announcing "More UFO Sightings Revealed," "UFO seen over Lake Michagan," and "UFO? Spotted Over Brazil." The center is located in Cleveland, Ohio.

Key Articles and Reports

Investigator Finds Mutilations To Be 'Intriguing; 'Maps Campaign

This article from the Rio Grande Sun (May 10, 1979) introduces Ken Rommel, a 54-year-old retiring FBI agent who will lead an investigation into cattle mutilations in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Rommel, known as "The Fox," has extensive experience in investigating bank robberies and violent crimes. He finds the "mute" question of cattle mutilations intriguing and sees it as a case he'd like to crack. The investigation is funded by a $42,000 grant from the Law Enforcement Assistance Association, with the application specifications written with Rommel in mind. Rommel will officially begin his investigation on May 25th. He plans to set up headquarters in the Espanola branch of the District Attorney's office, chosen due to the high incidence of mutilations in Rio Arriba County. Santa Fe County's computers will be utilized to create a "data bank" to analyze mutilation data and identify patterns. Rommel hopes to coordinate mutilation data with other states and aims to establish a "retrievable bank of information" and "hopefully accurate statistics." He emphasizes that his approach will be logical and aims to remove superstition from the phenomena. He clarifies that he is not conducting a UFO investigation but specifically "mutilated cows," and will collect all facts and develop lead materials. His priorities include assembling a "credible team" and getting "on the scene quickly." He believes that a "fresher" mutilation find yields more evidence and wants to "search" the scene like any other crime scene.

Nearby News: UFO Sightings

This section compiles several brief reports of UFO sightings from various locations:

• Bradford, PA (April 28, 1979): Two UFO reports are being investigated by Joan Jeffers, field researcher for the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research. One sighting involved a woman seeing what she thought were two headlights coming out of woods, which turned out to be a noiseless object with colored lights. Another sighting involved two white lights seen hovering over a bean field, described as a rectangular object with white and then colored lights, which disappeared.
• Beaumont, Texas (April 15, 1979): A "balloon sparks flurry of calls" report clarifies that a hot air balloon, reflecting the sun's rays, caused confusion and numerous calls to authorities, mistaken for a UFO.

Woman Spots UFO Near Her Home

This article from Shelby, N.C. (April 21, 1979) details a sighting by Mrs. A.G. Owensby. She and her three children saw a bright light over their house around 9 p.m. The object hovered, then moved down behind trees and disappeared. W.D. Gantt, captain with the Cleveland County Sheriff's Department reserves, investigated and noted that a mercury vapor light on a pole was off, possibly tripped by the object's light. Gantt also mentioned the possibility of lanterns used by fishermen or an airplane with an illuminated advertising sign, which was confirmed by pilot Tom Futch of Charlotte Flying Billboards. Futch stated his flying billboard would not have caused the vapor light to go out.

UFO Is Sighted In Bethel Area

This report from Whiteville, N.C. (April 16, 1979) describes an unidentified flying object sighted in the Bethel community. Deputy James Coleman suggested it might have been a weather kite. The object was described as V-shaped, about 10 feet across, with ropes attached. Officers planned to contact weather stations. A light aircraft flew over the area, but the object was not visible.

Haines City, Fla. Herald (April 19, 1979)

This report details a UFO sighting where Nora and Fred Green saw something swoop low over a grove near SR 544. It was described as a big light with many small lights emanating from it. Fred Green believed it was a flying saucer, while Nora was more cautious.

Flying Saucers are her cup of tea

This article from Oshkosh, Wis. (April 21, 1979) features Judie Fingal, who claims to have seen spaceships flying over Menasha. She took a photograph on August 13, 1978, which she believes shows a spaceship traveling at 54,000 mph, and even four UFOs in flight. She states that the object was not visible to the naked eye, suggesting a "forcefield" was in effect. Fingal had the photo examined by a college professor and a professional photographer, who concluded it was definitely a UFO, though a Northwestern photographer suggested it could be a streetlight exposure. Fingal believes UFOs are here to help humanity. She claims to have seen hundreds of UFOs since she was 20 and often chases them with her friend Bonnie Meyer.

Woman's Farmland Provides Amazing Proof UFOs Exist

This article from Modern People (April 22, 1979) reports on a sighting by Cathy Wilfong and Cindy Bridges in central Indiana. They observed a pattern of bright lights hovering over a bean field, which they described as an inverted saucer with lights on the corners. After hovering for over 15 minutes, it left a 40-foot impression in the field, similar to other "saucer nests" found globally. An investigator from the Center for UFO Study visited the site. Police suggested the impression could be from helicopter rotors, but the women insist there was no noise. National Guard records showed no flights scheduled for that area.

UFO may be bright star Arcturus

This report from Bradford, PA (April 20, 1979) discusses a caller's description of an object in the sky as a "big star that changes colors." Joan Jeffers, field investigator for the Pennsylvania Center for UFO Research, suggested the object was likely the star Arcturus, which can appear to move and flash due to atmospheric conditions and prolonged viewing.

Eh, you don't suppose it's.

This article from Santa Maria, Calif. (February 9, 1979) features Yvonne Morrow and Ann Weiner. Morrow saw four orange lights in a row over the Nipomo mesa, with two lights disappearing. Weiner, miles away, saw a dark object resembling a "huge cargo plane or a small blimp" with a red-tipped antenna. She noted that the television was going "like crazy" and the object made no sound. Vandenberg AFB reported no unusual air activity at the time.

Woman Says Object Not Plane, Lanterns

This follow-up article from Shelby, N.C. (April 24, 1979) reiterates Mrs. A.G. Owensby's sighting. She firmly states the object was not an airplane or lanterns. Her three children and mother corroborated the sighting of a large light hovering near her home, described as having a row of lights and "gobs of windows."

UFO reported over Luzon

A brief report from Modesto, Calif. (May 28, 1979) mentions a disc-shaped UFO with flashing lights seen over Luzon, Philippines, described as having enthralling colors before disappearing.

Haines City, Fal. Herald (April 26, 1979)

This report details two sightings near Lake Marion. One involved a big blue light that headed northwest and disappeared. Another involved two strange lights coming out of an orange grove, one of which hovered and reacted to flashing headlights.

Reading List

The magazine includes an extensive "Reading List" of books categorized into "Hardcovers," "Paperbacks," and "Booklets." These books cover topics such as astronomical anomalies, UFOs, extraterrestrial life, ancient mysteries, and related subjects. Notable titles include "Mysterious Universe: A Handbook of Astronomical Anomalies," "The Philadelphia Experiment: Project Invisibility," "The Sea of Energy," "The Andreas son Affair," "Sasquatch Apparitions," "The Great Pyramid Decoded," "Erich Von Daniken: Disciple of the Gods," "Storm on the Sun," "Life on Mars," "The Discovery of the Wingstars," "Life Before Life," "We, Immortals," "1976 BUFORA Conference Proceedings," and "Strange Relics from the Depths of the Earth."

Other Information

Page 2 includes contact information for the A.P.I.C.I.C. Clipping Service, listing staff members and foreign correspondents. It also advertises "UFO UPDATE" magazine and the "UFO COMMUNICATORS NETWORK" via Page Research Library. Subscription rates for the monthly "Aerial Phenomenon Clipping & Information Center News Releases" are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, cattle mutilations, and the investigation of these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and reporting on these events, providing a platform for various perspectives and news clippings from different sources. There is an emphasis on investigative journalism, particularly concerning the cattle mutilation cases, with a focus on logical analysis and evidence gathering. The inclusion of a comprehensive reading list suggests an aim to inform and educate readers about a wide range of related topics and theories.

Title: RIO GRANDE SUN
Issue Date: May 3, 1979
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the Rio Grande Sun delves into the perplexing phenomenon of cattle mutilations, exploring potential connections to nuclear activity, government investigations, and UFO sightings. The articles present a range of perspectives from experts, law enforcement officials, and witnesses, highlighting the ongoing mystery and the challenges in finding definitive answers.

Spokesman Suggests Nuclear Studies, Mutilations Related

David Perkins, a participant in a recent Conference on Cattle Mutilations, proposed a theory linking these events to nuclear activity. He suggested that cattle might be used as "test animals for some agency" and that mutilations often occur in areas that are "sources of environmental problems," such as nuclear testing sites, nuclear power plants, uranium mining operations, and areas where nuclear weapons and military operations are located. Perkins, who works with AMP (Animal Mutilations Probe), a Colorado-based clearing house for data, stated that his investigations have yielded "absolutely nothing" and that the phenomena "assault rationality."

Richard Sigismund, a mine owner and proponent of UFO theory, echoed concerns about the mutilations, suggesting a connection to UFO activity. He noted that "In areas where cattle mutilations are frequent, UFO activity is heavy." Sigismund also pointed out that unexplained aircraft tend to "hover over nuclear weapon sites," potentially affecting "national security." He cited a Washington Post report indicating government records of UFO "visits to military bases and to missile launch sites" verified by eyewitnesses and radar. Sigismund believes that "We are past the point of debating whether UFOs exist," and expressed alarm that there is no government agency to which UFO sightings may be reported.

Government and Law Enforcement Involvement

The issue details efforts by law enforcement and government agencies to address the growing number of mutilation reports. Senator Harrison Schmitt announced an investigation into "possible, not probable" areas of crime related to livestock mutilations. A conference was held to define the scope of the problem and the basis for federal assistance. A $50,000 grant was requested to finance a clearinghouse for the investigation. U.S. Attorney R.E. Thompson stated that within two weeks, a decision would be made on which agency—the FBI, the Santa Fe District Attorney's Office, or the State Police—would lead the investigation and serve as the central data collection agency.

Forrest Putman, FBI special agent in charge in Albuquerque, emphasized the need for coordination among investigating agencies. The federal government's past reluctance to get involved was attributed to a lack of jurisdiction, but Schmitt noted that reports from Indian reservations and other potential federal law violations provided a basis for jurisdiction.

Expert Opinions and Theories

Dr. James Prine of Los Alamos addressed the conference, stating that he has studied samples from mutilated carcasses and still believes the mutilations are accomplished by predators, though he agreed to keep an open mind. Dr. Clair Hibbs of the New Mexico State Veterinarian Diagnostic Lab, who has studied mutilation phenomena in Kansas and Nebraska, categorized them into three types: those caused by predators, those from animals that died from other causes (like poisoning) and were then mutilated by humans, and those done by "kids" for fun.

David Perkins and Cari Seawell, investigators with AMP, pointed to specific characteristics of a cow found in Santa Clara Canyon that indicated mutilation, including missing genitals, a surgically precise rectal area, and a circular incision in the udder with milk drained. They argued that the lack of canine predator activity around carcasses is a perplexing sign, as it is unlike coyotes to pass up a meal.

Historical Context and International Reports

Tommy Bland, a participant in the conference, noted that reports of animal mutilations date back nearly 200 years, citing examples from Scotland (1810), England (1875), and Pakistan (1876). He mentioned Sir Arthur Conan Doyle as an early investigator of such activity. Tom Adams, a mutilation researcher, reported on "unmarked and unidentified helicopters" seen near mutilation sites. Dr. Henry Montief of Sandia Labs advised investigators to keep an open mind and noted that American Indians sometimes believe mutilations are performed by "star people."

UFO Sightings and Related Incidents

Several articles detail UFO sightings from various locations. In the Philippines, reports emerged of glowing objects and a disc-shaped object seen by police chief Col. Cipriano Geongson. In Baker, Oregon, five observers reported seeing a bright, tumbling object described as a "great ball of light" with a streak, which was not a meteor. In Atwater, California, two unidentified flying objects were spotted, described as disc-shaped and metallic.

In the Metrolina area of North Carolina, seven out of 12 reported UFO sightings on March 12 could not be explained, with some described as triangular objects with white and red lights. A couple in Pageland, South Carolina, reported seeing a house-sized object with red and white lights that moved off at high speed. In Greenbrae, California, residents reported seeing a rotating, oval object described as "intermittently lit up by a searchlight."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of cattle mutilations, the potential link to UFOs and government activities, and the challenges in conducting credible investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the strangeness of the phenomenon while also presenting skeptical viewpoints and the need for scientific rigor. The articles highlight the frustration of investigators who have found little concrete evidence despite years of effort, and the growing public and official interest in understanding these unexplained events.

This collection of newspaper clippings from May 1979 primarily focuses on reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and strange aerial phenomena across various locations in the United States and Canada, with one report from the Philippines.

Lowell, Massachusetts - May 9, 1979

The main article, "Strange orange lights reported in the skies over Lowell, Dracut" by Brian C. Mooney in The Sun, details numerous calls received on the evening of May 9, 1979, from residents of Lowell, Dracut, Pawtucketville, and Centralville. Witnesses described seeing formations of 13 to 14 yellowish-orange lights moving slowly and horizontally, heading east or east-northeast. Calls were made to The Sun and the Lowell and Dracut police departments. Some callers were hesitant to report, fearing they would be considered crazy. Theories proposed included Air National Guard planes dropping equipment at Fort Devens, government atmospheric tests, or meteor showers. Gary Sebring, an aircraft dispatcher at Fort Devens, suggested that C130 transport planes dropping equipment with illuminated parachutes might be the cause, noting that the lights could appear bright yellow or pale yellow. Capt. Stephan Stubits of the Rhode Island Air National Guard confirmed four drops at Devens that night, with equipment having chartreuse-colored lights. Maj. Robert Hafner at Westover Air Force Base stated no drops occurred in their area. The Federal Aviation tower in Nashua, NH, had no explanation. Professor William Pinson of MIT mentioned recent meteor showers but noted they are not spectacular. He also recalled government atmospheric testing in Virginia that was visible in New Hampshire, theorizing that similar events might explain the Lowell sightings.

Colton, California - May 22, 1979

An article from the San Bernardino, Calif. Sun, "UFC (Unidentified flying cushion)," by Richard Brooks, reports on a sighting on May 22, 1979. Sheriff's Flight Sgt. Ron Hittle described a "small silver object" resembling a "silver couch cushion with a red stripe around the middle." It was observed with binoculars and chased by a helicopter. Deputy Scott Field attempted to capture it. Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Navarro also witnessed the object. Alvin Lawson, director of the UFO Report Center of Orange County, stated that UFOs are typically estimated at 10 to 40 feet, making this object "little small." He suggested it might be explainable as a commercial or military craft.

Honolulu, Hawaii - May 6, 1979

An article from the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, "'We Know We Saw It,'" describes a UFO sighting on Sunday night by a woman and her husband in Kalama Valley. The object was described as huge, shaped like a triangle, with numerous blinking lights, and made a loud humming noise. They estimated its speed at less than 100 miles per hour and its altitude at about 2,000 feet. The object moved towards Sandy Beach and the water, then headed out to sea. They were awed by the sight, and the husband, previously a disbeliever, was convinced. No other reports were received, and the FAA reported nothing unusual on radar.

Lake Ontario, Canada - April 25, 1979

An article from The Mississauga Times, "We may not be alone: Local man says lake is UFO base," by Debbie Irvine, features Tom Grey, a member of the Northeastern Unidentified Flying Objects Organization. Grey claims to have photographed strange orange lights hovering over Lake Ontario from Niagara-on-the-Lake. He believes these lights indicate an underwater UFO base in the lake. He has been investigating UFO sightings for years, and these photos are part of a series dating back to 1965. The photos are being sent to Ground Saucer Watch in Phoenix, Arizona, for computer analysis.

Menasha, Wisconsin - May 22, 1979

An article from the Milwaukee Sentinel, "UFO hobbyist looks to the sky for proof of spaceships," by Jeff Wright, profiles Judie Fingal. Fingal claims to have photographed spaceships flying over Menasha. She presented a picture taken on August 13, 1978, showing four streaks of light, which she claims represent a spaceship traveling at 54,000 m.p.h. She stated that the UFO had its force field on, preventing visual detection. Fingal believes UFOs are real and are here to help humanity. She has seen hundreds of UFOs since age 20 and actively searches for them with a friend.

Manila, Philippines - May 15 & May 28, 1979

Two brief reports mention UFO sightings in the Philippines. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (May 28, 1979) notes a rainbow-hued UFO sighted over Luzon. The Chase City, VA, News Progress (May 16, 1979) references an American scientist and 600 villagers who claimed to see a UFO emitting light flashes and landing near Mount Apo. The Alexandria, VA, Gazette (May 28, 1979) also reports a UFO sighting over a southeastern city on Luzon, described as flashing a rainbow of colors.

Cocke County, Tennessee - May 2, 1979

An article from the Newport, Tenn. Plain Talk, "'Ball Of Fire' Baffling Sight," reports that at least three people saw an unusual "ball of fire" over the French Broad River. Sheriff's Department dispatcher James Finchum received calls about the object appearing in the sky and then crashing. Jim Teague described it as a bright light that appeared suddenly, like something exploding, and then drifted and fell faster. He initially thought it was an airplane but later considered it might be a meteorite that exploded. Deputy Finchum confirmed no plane crashes were reported.

Chase City, Virginia - May 16, 1979

The Chase City, VA, News Progress reports on an incident where a sound resembling a car crash was heard late Sunday night on Route 722. The sound was followed by silence, and despite immediate calls to the rescue squad and neighbors, no evidence of a crash was found. State police and rescue units searched the area for hours, and airports were checked for missing aircraft. The sound remains unexplained.

University of Kentucky Documentary

An article from The Lexington Leader, "They're making stars out of UFOs," by Judi Joseph (March 14, 1979), discusses a documentary video tape titled "Lights in the Sky: A Central Kentucky Phenomenon," produced by three University of Kentucky students. The film explores reported UFO sightings in Madison and Estill counties. The students aimed for an unbiased presentation, allowing the audience to form their own conclusions. They created simulated UFO effects for the documentary, which cost about $150 to produce. The students admitted to becoming jumpy about the subject after working on the project.

Ancient Writings and UFOs

An article from the National Enquirer (May 22) titled "Centuries-Old Writings Show UFOs Visited Earth in 4,000 B.C." by Bob Temmey, presents the view of Dr. V. Raghavan, retired head of the Sanskrit department at the University of Madras. He claims that Sanskrit writings, including the Vedas and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, describe flying machines or "Vimanas" similar to flying saucers, suggesting extraterrestrial visitation to Earth as far back as 4000 B.C. Dr. A.V. Krishna Murty, professor of aeronautics at the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, agrees that ancient India had knowledge of building flying machines, possibly patterned after spaceships.

UFO Reporter's Experience

A Star (June 12) article, "UFO reporter says story led to misery," details the experience of Quentin Fogarty, a television newsman who reported a well-documented UFO sighting. Fogarty claims the experience dramatically changed his life, causing him significant trauma, health issues, and strain on his marriage and friendships. His report and a documentary film were considered strong evidence of UFO existence by American experts. Fogarty experienced weight loss and mental and physical exhaustion, leading to hospitalization. He is writing a book titled "Let's Hope They're Friendly."

Cattle Mutilation

A report from The Pueblo Chieftain (May 21, 1979) mentions an investigation into an apparent cattle mutilation in Walsenburg, Colorado. A prize rodeo bull named Fool's Gold had its rectum and sexual organs surgically removed. No signs of struggle or predator tracks were found. This was the first apparent cattle mutilation in the region in several months.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the search for explanations, ranging from mundane to extraterrestrial. There is a clear interest in documenting these events and exploring various theories. Some articles lean towards skepticism or offer conventional explanations (military, weather phenomena), while others present witness accounts with a sense of wonder and conviction about the reality of UFOs. The inclusion of ancient texts suggesting advanced technology and extraterrestrial contact adds a historical dimension to the UFO phenomenon. The personal impact of reporting on UFOs is also highlighted, as seen in Quentin Fogarty's story. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on the phenomenon and presenting different perspectives, from eyewitness accounts to expert analysis and historical context.

This collection of articles from early 1979, primarily from British regional newspapers and one Australian publication, details numerous UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across England and Australia. The publications include the Stourbridge County Express, Liverpool Echo, The West Australian, Sandwell Mail, Coventry Evening Telegraph, Stroud News and Journal, Herlad Express, Swindon Evening Advertiser, Evening Express, Essex County Standard, Evening Gazette, and Crosby Herald. The overall tone suggests a significant public interest in UFOs, with many reports coming from ordinary citizens, police officers, and even some official sources.

Key Articles and Reports

Stourbridge County Express (March 23, 1979): "UFO seen by PC on patrol"

This article reports on UFO sightings in the West Midlands, including one by Police Constable R. Stallard in Stourbridge. He described an object flashing over his patrol car at high speed and altitude, leaving a rocket-like trail. Other sightings were reported from Wollescote and Wednesbury. Air traffic control at RAF West Drayton reported nothing on their radar screens. The objects were speculated to be meteors or natural phenomena.

Liverpool Echo (April 8, 1979): "Men in black 'try to hush up UFO talk'"

A society specializing in UFO research claims that Ministry of Defence officials, referred to as 'men in black,' are impeding their investigations. Mr. Alfred Mills, chairman of the Isle of Anglesey Society for Psychical Research and UFO's, stated that these individuals visit witnesses to try and silence them. The society aims to establish a 'hot line' for public reports.

The West Australian (May 7, 1979): "Mystery in the Eucla sky"

This report details a mysterious sausage-shaped object hovering low over Eucla, Australia, for several mornings. The object, approximately 13 meters long and 7 meters in diameter, attracted crowds. Despite attempts to shoot at it with high-powered rifles, it would ascend to high altitudes. The RAAF planned an investigation. The Weather Bureau suggested it might be a ghost balloon, but residents described it as glowing orange-red and having a silver back with fins. Some witnesses reported their radios cutting out when the object was near.

Sandwell Mail (April 12, 1979): "Down to earth quest for the truth on UFOs"

This article highlights the serious approach of two Birmingham research groups, the Astronomical Society and the Unidentified Flying Objects Study Information Service, which are organizing an exhibition on UFO mysteries. They are committed to factual research, avoiding 'little green men' narratives. The article also mentions a sighting by former policewoman Margaret Westwood and her police officer husband, Geoffrey, who witnessed a glowing object.

Coventry Evening Telegraph (March 22, 1979): "Police support UFO reports"

Police stations across the West Midlands received numerous UFO reports between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. A police constable reported a 'disc-shaped object emitting a bright light' landing in a car park at Chelmsley Wood, but no trace was found. In Coventry, five police officers reported seeing strange objects described as round and illuminated, emitting green, blue, or white light, with no noise. Elmdon Airport radar detected nothing, and controllers made no reports. The Weather Bureau suggested it might be a meteorite.

Stroud News and Journal (March 22, 1979): "Local UFO sighting"

Two Painswick families reported seeing a strange object in the sky on Sunday night, which they initially thought was a distressed aircraft. It appeared to burst into flames with bits falling to the ground. Mrs. Gillian Gyde described it as 'very bow' and coming from the Golf course direction, possibly crashing in the Sheepscombe and Birdlip area. Mrs. Catherine Smith also saw the craft from her home, describing it as 'like a rocket, only coming down,' and it seemed to explode.

Herlad Express (April 14, 1979): "Torbay UFO sighting"

A retired schoolteacher, Mr. Arthur Webb, reported seeing an unidentified flying object over Torbay. He described it as having a reddish hue and an angular shape, travelling slowly eastward before disappearing. He compared its movement to an American satellite.

Liverpool Echo (April 7, 1979): "Man saw whistling saucer fall to ground"

Police in St. Helens investigated a report from a 20-year-old man, Ian Pennington, who claimed to have seen a UFO fall to the ground. He described it as orange with a white tail, making a distinctive whistling noise. The object was seen in the north-east, described as football-sized, and appeared to be travelling in a zig-zag pattern before falling. Police searched the area but found nothing.

Formby Times (March 14, 1979): "UFO group to lobby Whitehall after sighting"

The British UFO Investigation Bureau (B.U.F.O.I.B.) is demanding that the government take UFO sightings seriously and establish a dedicated office. This demand follows recent alleged sightings over Merseyside, including a huge ball of fire seen by Jenny Hoy. Witnesses reported a thunderous droning noise, and some claimed their radios cut out. The bureau's president, Mr. Gary Raymer, believes the object was extraterrestrial, discounting theories of aircraft or space debris. The bureau aims to find out the truth and wants the government to make an approach if extraterrestrial life is confirmed.

Stroud News and Journal (April 5, 1979): "Flying Saucers" (Letter to the Editor)

Jean Berry writes to advocate for the existence of flying saucers, arguing that people who deny this are either not thinking or are frightened by the implications. She suggests that intelligences visiting Earth are evolved beyond human comprehension. The Aetherius Society, she states, knows about UFOs and their purpose, but the British Government conceals this information. A petition is being drawn up to demand the release of this data.

Swindon Evening Advertiser (April 17, 1979): "UFO Scare Hits Town"

This article details two separate UFO incidents in Swindon. In the first, several families in Tovey Road, Moredon, reported seeing mystery orange lights. Maria Hunt and Debbie Quinn described them as 'bright orange, like traffic lights.' In a separate incident, Mr. Richard Queen of Insch reported a violently bright light that exploded in his bedroom, accompanied by an engine-like noise. The light reappeared later without noise. He also mentioned Mr. Robert McAlley, who saw a blinding light above the Glens of Foudland.

Evening Express (February 22, 1979): "Constables in close encounter with UFO"

Two sober policemen on the Isle of Barra, Scotland, Constable James Waugh and Constable John McIver, reported observing an unidentified multi-coloured flying object. They kept it under observation for nearly an hour, describing it as a bright light with various colors (white, orange, green, red, blue) moving back and forth and then heading southwest over the Atlantic, appearing to be about 1500 feet up.

Essex County Standard (March 2, 1979): "'Strange lights' over Essex"

Scientists have dismissed rumors linking geese deaths to UFO sightings in the Colchester area. The newspaper received numerous reports of 'strange lights.' Assistant borough planner Mr. Ted Gittins described seeing four medium-bright stars in a diamond-shaped formation moving slowly. Other witnesses, including Mr. Michael Hester and schoolboy Julian Appleton, also reported seeing bright lights in various formations. A Ministry of Defence spokesman suggested explanations such as odd meteorological conditions or civil aircraft activity.

Evening Gazette (February 26, 1979): "UFO over the Fylde - or flight of fancy?"

This report details sightings of a fast-moving orange glow with an explosive roar over the Fylde area. Two police officers also logged the object as an unidentified flying object. Mr. Peter Hewitt described seeing two red lights moving very fast, emitting a large flame. Air traffic control at Blackpool Airport noted similar sightings over Fleetwood at New Year. Coastguards at Formby cynically suggested it might be American aircraft using photoflash equipment.

Crosby Herald (February 23, 1979): "Setting sights on exposing big UFO cover-up"

This article focuses on the British UFO Investigation Bureau (B.U.F.O.I.B.) and its efforts to expose what they believe is a government cover-up of UFO sightings. Editor Paul McCarthy and president Mr. Gary Raymer aim to publish a magazine, 'Viewpoint,' to bring UFO phenomena into the open. They believe UFOs have been present for centuries. The article highlights their dedication and calls for public reports to the bureau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes across these articles include the prevalence of UFO sightings, the involvement of law enforcement in reporting them, and the skepticism or attempts at rational explanation from official bodies like the Ministry of Defence and air traffic control. There is a strong undercurrent of alleged government cover-ups, with organizations like the British UFO Investigation Bureau actively campaigning for transparency and official acknowledgment. The articles often contrast the detailed, sometimes fearful, accounts of eyewitnesses with the more dismissive or technical explanations provided by authorities. The editorial stance, while varied across publications, generally leans towards reporting the phenomena and the public's fascination and concern, often giving voice to those who believe in the reality of UFOs and the need for further investigation.