APCIC - Vol 04 No 11 - 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.) newsletter, dated November 1979, Volume Four, No. 11, presents a compilation of UFO sighting reports from across North America and beyond. The cover prominently features headlines like 'More UFO Sightings Revealed,' 'UFO seen over Lake Michigan,' 'UFO? Spotted Over Brazil,' and 'UFO sighting in Guelph,' setting the tone for the issue's content.

Staff and Correspondents

The newsletter lists its editorial staff, including Harry R. Cohen as editor and S. Mac Williams as assistant editor. Ron Smotek handles photo analysis, and Richard Smotek contributes 'supplement' research. A network of foreign correspondents from Argentina, Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, Turkey, West Germany, and Canada provides international perspectives.

Featured Articles and Reports

The issue is rich with diverse reports of alleged UFO sightings:

Smyrna, Delaware Incident (October 15, 1979)

Delaware State Police and Smyrna Police reported sightings of unidentified flying objects. A call received at 2:14 a.m. described 'strange lights' along Route 437-A. Dover Air Force Base detected two stationary objects on radar, though they had no aircraft in the area. Four State Police units were dispatched, and at least one officer observed the lights. Earlier, around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, five UFOs were reported hovering over Smyrna by town policemen and a dispatcher. Bruce Peachy, the dispatcher, observed three UFOs at the north end and one each at the east and west ends of town, describing them as having revolving red, green, and white lights. Numerous residents also reported sightings. The investigation was to be turned over to the National UFO Reporting Center.

Winthrop, Washington Sighting (October 11, 1979)

Mae Darwood reports on a Winthrop woman, Cam Pierce, who saw an unidentified flying object early Saturday morning. Mrs. Pierce described 'two really, really bright lights, white, with a long tail, or trail, which glowed,' moving soundlessly. She also saw 'three little colored lights' behind the main lights. The object moved from southwest to northeast and dropped below the horizon.

Robeson County, North Carolina Incident (October 5, 1979)

Harvey Burgess of the Robesonian reports on a police puzzle involving a marijuana seizure and a UFO sighting. A woman reported 'strange lights in the sky,' described as 'two large lights with a smaller light in the center.' The object reportedly moved in various directions, hovered, and traveled at varying speeds. Speculation pointed to helicopters from the Fort Bragg area, with a military spokesman confirming maneuvers were being performed, though not confirming their presence over Robeson County at that specific time. The Sheriff's Department has received similar unconfirmed reports throughout the year.

New Richmond, Wisconsin Couple (October 4, 1979)

The New Richmond News reports on a sighting by an elderly couple who asked to remain unidentified. They saw a 'brilliant, globe-shaped metallic-appearing object' moving toward their car. The object passed over their car with a 'tremendous roaring noise,' violently shaking their car. They contacted investigator Brad Ayers of the Center for UFO Studies after reading about another sighting.

Balsam Lake, Wisconsin Couples (October 4, 1979)

The Polk County Ledger reports two middle-aged couples saw a 'large, intensely red, glowing disc' that caused their car's headlights to extinguish and then reignite. The object then 'shot' off to the southwest at high speed. This sighting is linked to the Dresser, Wisconsin sighting.

Dresser, Wisconsin Sighting (September 20, 1979)

The Osceola Sun reports on an elliptical object sighted in broad daylight by multiple witnesses, including Larry Hogan and Dale Kelly Sr. The object reportedly moved swiftly up into the sky. The investigator, Bradley Ayers, believes the sighting was probably genuine.

Mower County, Minnesota Reports (October 16, 1979)

The Rochester Post-Bulletin reports two UFO reports in Mower County turned over to the Center for UFO Studies. Thomas Gebhart reported something that 'broke or pushed down a 12-foot square area of his bean field' with two 4-inch deep depressions. Thomas Braaten reported seeing two oblong-shaped objects emitting a white glow and hovering for 10-15 minutes before moving northeast.

Cannon Falls, Minnesota Incident (October 4, 1979)

The Farmington Tribune reports nine people at two locations saw a 'shiny, round disk, described by one as "chrome-colored," that looked like an upside-down hubcap.' The object's nature is puzzling to residents and officials.

Fennimore, Wisconsin Farmer Sighting (September 26, 1979)

The Herald Independent reports a Fennimore man, Guerdon Gratz, saw a brilliant white light moving south, with sparks and an odor of sulphur. He had heard of other sightings in the area.

Orovile, California Sighting (October 3, 1979)

The Mercury Register reports an object hovering with flashing red, blue, and green lights was seen over Orovile. Observers from the Lick Observatory suggested it was Ceres, a large asteroid, explaining the flashing colors as an atmospheric effect.

Winsted, Connecticut Sighting (October 1, 1979)

The Winsted Citizen reports a resident saw a 'great ball of white light which left a stream of light behind it,' sweep silently over the lake at high speed.

Ingolstadt, West Germany Sighting (September 19, 1979)

The Montreal Star reports Bavarian police observed three unidentified flying objects hovering silently near Ingolstadt.

Marshall County, North Dakota Incident (September 17, 1979)

The Mankato Free Press discusses a close encounter where Marshall County Deputy Val Johnson was 'attacked' by an 'unidentified thing' that smashed his patrol car, injuring his eyes. The Center for UFO Studies called it a strong case. The article questions the government's lack of interest in the incident.

Pioneer 11's Journey and Extraterrestrial Life

An article discusses the Pioneer 11 space mission and its potential for contact with extraterrestrial life. It also explores the theory that viruses and bacteria responsible for common colds may originate from outer space, suggesting that advanced civilizations might possess cures.

UFO Investigation - Lindstrom, Minnesota (October 10, 1979)

This report details an investigation by Brad Ayers into a UFO sighting near New Richmond, Wisconsin, involving three young men who saw a small, silvery object. Ayers ruled out natural phenomena and weather balloons, noting the timing and descriptions connect it to the Dresser sighting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the prevalence and diversity of UFO sightings, with numerous witness accounts from various geographical locations. The A.P.C.I.C. appears to be a clearinghouse for these reports, providing a platform for individuals to share their experiences. The editorial stance, as implied by the collection of articles, is one of serious consideration and investigation into UFO phenomena, highlighting the ongoing mystery and the desire for explanations. The inclusion of reports from multiple countries and the involvement of organizations like the Center for UFO Studies suggest a broad and dedicated interest in the subject.

This issue of the Cannon Falls, Minn. Beacon, dated September 27, 1979, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across various locations. The cover story, "'Something I'd Never Seen Before' Was Object a UFO?" by Kate Johannessen, details a sighting in Cannon Falls on September 18, 1979, involving multiple witnesses.

Cover Story: Cannon Falls Sighting

The main article recounts an event where at least nine people in Cannon Falls witnessed what they described as a shiny, round disk, resembling an upside-down hubcap. The sighting occurred around 4:15 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18. Four children—Tanya Weber (11), Tony Weber (9), Kevin Molstrom (11), and Jody Fregien (9)—were in the backyard of the Weber home, while five adults—Arnie Hjermstad, Dennis Felton, Jerry Ratzlaff, Jerry Schanink, and Allen Barsness—were working at the Hjermstad house a block away. Both groups reported seeing the same object.

The children, familiar with airplanes and hot air balloons, did not believe the object was either. Linda Weber, mother of Tanya and Tony, stated her daughter insisted it was not an airplane. Tom Weber, father of the child witnesses, contacted WCCO radio to share their story, which was further fueled by reports of a possible UFO landing near Lake City.

Witnesses described the object moving from northwest to southeast. Arnie Hjermstad noted that air currents were moving west to east that day, but the object was moving much faster, comparable to a jet. Hjermstad expressed his bewilderment, stating, "It was something I had never seen before. It didn't act like anything I have ever seen before." He also observed that the object appeared to stay the same or get higher, unlike a jet which appears to go down due to the Earth's curvature.

Dennis Felton believed it was an unidentified flying object. The article mentions that reporters from the National Inquirer and the New York Star had contacted the children. Despite the compelling accounts, the article notes that no UFO experts had visited Cannon Falls to speak with the witnesses.

Other UFO Reports from Across the Country and Abroad

The issue also compiles several other UFO-related news items from various publications:

• Dresser, Wisconsin (Sept. 5, 1979): Bradley E. Ayers, a field investigator for UFO Studies, investigated a sighting by Larry Hogan. Hogan described a dark green, metalic silvery craft, estimated at 6 to 8 feet in size with a 2 to 4 foot thickness, hovering silently about 10 feet above a bean field at approximately 10:45 a.m. The object was described as having no external features or lights and was moving at 30-40 miles per hour. It later rose and moved southeast over East Lake. Witnesses found the object to be intelligently controlled and unlike anything natural or manmade. Ayers, a former U.S. Army captain and CIA operative, is seeking further information.

• Yreka, California (Sept. 28, 1979): The Sheriff's Office received reports of a bright, white light in the sky, which they attributed to a falling star.

• St. Johnsbury, Vermont (Sept. 15, 1979): Sightings of unidentified flying objects were reported over Burke Mountain. One witness described objects glowing in blue, white, green, and orange colors, performing maneuvers impossible for conventional aircraft, such as hovering and then zooming away with incredible quickness.

• Sandpoint, Idaho (Oct. 5, 1979): Dozens of people, including law enforcement officials, reported seeing four to six unidentified flying objects between 12:30 a.m. and 1 a.m. The objects were described as changing colors like Roman-candle fireworks and having jet sounds. One pilot flying a DC3 at 7,000 feet reported seeing six UFOs from his aircraft. The U.S. Air Force stated that it no longer investigates UFO reports, as they have not indicated a threat to U.S. security since the "Project Blue Book" era.

• Brainerd, Minnesota (Oct. 1, 1979): Deputy Melvin Dick reported seeing a glowing red, green, and yellow object flying at treetop level near Cass Lake around 9:30 p.m. The object was described as large, spinning, and moving slowly, making a 90-degree turn and flying north. Other witnesses also saw the object.

• Chico, California (Oct. 13, 1979): Donna Gillispie reported seeing a red light flying above Highway 70 around 11:30 p.m. She described it as silver and oval shaped, about the size of two cars side-by-side. As she drove under it, her car radio crackled with static. The object had a dome-like projection flashing red and white. A check with local law enforcement and air traffic controllers showed no other sightings reported that night.

• Highlands, Texas (Oct. 4, 1979): Tony, Richard, and Marlin Blasky reported seeing a UFO in the Western Sky around 7:30 p.m. The light hovered for about 45 minutes, changing colors from white, yellow, orange, to red, and then suddenly shot straight up and disappeared into the clouds.

• Crescent City, California (Sept. 28, 1979): Police officers Bill Galatioto and Dennis Halbasch reported seeing a big, green object floating through the sky around 11 p.m. It was described as having no noise and a slight green tail vapor. Other reports included a treasury agent observing the object in Humboldt County and an unconfirmed radio report of it being seen over Klamath Falls, Oregon.

• Dover AFB, Delaware (Oct. 17, 1979): Dover Air Force Base confirmed that its approach radar detected two unidentified contacts six miles south-southeast of Laurel, around the same time state police and the U.S. Coast Guard were observing similar phenomena. The Air Force suggested the radar might have been showing "ground clutter."

• Valencia, Spain (Oct. 19, 1979): The pilot of a Spanish jetliner made an emergency landing after reportedly being "pursued" by bright red flying objects over the Mediterranean island of Ibiza. The pilot stated he had to dive 14,000 feet to avoid collision with an unidentified flying object described as devilishly fast and capable of terrifying maneuvers.

• Athens, Tennessee (Oct. 19, 1979): A local resident reported seeing a "perfectly round, clear" object hanging motionless in the air, which then turned, became flat, and sped off northward at an extremely high rate of speed, faster than a jet. The witness later noticed there were actually two crafts.

Educators' Theories

An article from the Cleveland Press (Nov. 14, 1979) reports on futurist Harold Pluimer's theory presented at the Ohio School Boards Association convention. Pluimer suggested that UFOs are not from outer space but originate "from the bowels of the earth," driven by plate tectonics and electromagnetism. He posited that UFOs come from about 40 miles below the surface and that their powerful electromagnetism can cause hallucinations and affect vehicles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the prevalence of UFO sightings and the difficulty in explaining them. The articles present witness testimonies, often emphasizing the unusual nature of the objects and their behavior, which defy conventional explanations. While some reports are attributed to meteors or balloons, many remain unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these phenomena as they are presented by witnesses and authorities, without definitively concluding they are extraterrestrial, but acknowledging the mystery and the compelling nature of the accounts. The inclusion of Ayers' investigation and the Air Force's past stance on UFOs highlights the ongoing interest and official responses to these sightings.

This issue of 'FOREIGN CLIPS' is a compilation of numerous UFO sightings reported across England and Scotland during 1979, primarily in August, September, and October. The publication gathers reports from various local newspapers, presenting a collection of eyewitness accounts and initial investigations into these phenomena.

Article Summaries

'UFO or meteorite?' (Western Morning News - Oct 26, 1979)
Mrs. Patria Hambridge of St. Bees, Cumbria, reported seeing a "brilliant incandescent white ball of light" with a red tail moving inland and disappearing behind Bigrigg. This sighting coincided with a similar report in Scotland where a large meteorite was seen burning up in the atmosphere. Whitehaven police had no reports of the mystery object.

'UFO seen' (Western Morning News - Oct 26, 1979)
Cdr. John G. Baskcomb, a retired naval lieutenant commander, reported seeing a comet-like object over Cornwall early on Wednesday morning. He described it as a bright cricket ball with a burning tail, moving from east to west over Launceston.

'Spinning top' seen in sky! (Ipswich Evening Star - Oct 25, 1979)
Mrs. Nora Squire and Mrs. Gail Dersley of Ipswich reported seeing a "spinning top" shape object with red and green lights and a glow around it. They initially thought it was a helicopter but realized it was not making noise and moved slowly towards the town.

'RESIDENT SPOTS UFO AT DARWEN' (Lancashire Evening Telegraph - Oct 9, 1979)
Darwen police received a report of a UFO sighting around 10 pm. A spokesman attributed the sighting to a low-flying aircraft, though the Civil Aviation Authority had no knowledge of such flights in the area. British Aerospace confirmed no test flights were conducted at that time.

'Seeking answers to UFO phenomenon' (Altringham Guardina - Oct 11, 1979)
This article discusses the work of Jenny Randles and Peter Warrington, who have co-authored a book titled "UFOs: A British Viewpoint." They investigate UFO phenomena not just as sightings but also by looking at the people involved and societal attitudes. They acknowledge that UFOs raise more questions than answers, likening the phenomenon to a "slippery eel."

'Bright object over Scotland remains a mystery' (The Press and Journal - Oct 25, 1979)
Hundreds of calls were made to police, airports, and RAF centres regarding a mystery object seen over Scotland at approximately 25,000 m.p.h. Descriptions varied from a "big round ball of white and red" to a spectacular firework show. RAF spokesmen suggested it could be a meteorite, comet, or fireball. Eyewitnesses included Mrs. Ivy Hogg in North Skye and Mr. David Haynes, who described it as a "big rocket" with a white trail. A British Airways pilot logged it as a re-entering satellite. Mr. Sandy Badenoch reported seeing a "huge fireball" near Elgin.

'Three UFO's seen at Ringwood' (Bournemouth Evening Echo - Sept 13, 1979)
Chris Hooper reported his third UFO encounter, seeing three UFOs hovering over Hightown with his 14-year-old son, Paul. Paul described one object as cigar-shaped with red and green lights at each end and an orange light in the center. Chris hopes to be the first to board a spacecraft.

'More U.F.O. sightings' (Stoke on Trent Evening Sentinel - Oct 24, 1979)
Two people in Hanley claimed to have seen large dome-shaped objects hovering. Mr. Keith Harvey described a large "craft" with bright lights, while Mr. David Butler saw an object shaped like a diamond. The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association noted similarities with aircraft but also their noiseless and slow movement.

'UFO sightings in S. West' (Western Morning News - Oct 25, 1979)
The Exeter UFO Society is investigating two reports of a dart-shaped object seen over East Devon. A couple reported seeing it over Woodbury Common, and another man saw a similar object moving slowly over Exmouth.

'PINT-SIZED UFO RIDDLE' (Daily Star - Aug 31, 1979)
A tiny, pint-sized flying saucer, nine inches long and "gleaming like a blob of mercury," was seen twice near Blackbushe Airport, Hampshire. Flying instructor Laurie Adlington reported seeing it and described it as having two short aerials and appearing motionless. He flew within 15 feet of it and noted it was not from another planet.

'Lights in the sky mystery' (Dunstable Borough Gazette - Aug 2, 1979)
A series of bright white lights, possibly UFOs, were observed for almost two hours by neighbours Jane and Ron Clarke and Jenny and Keith Byers in Luton. Police believed they were FI-11 fighter planes, but the witnesses described the lights as zig-zagging, stopping, and moving silently.

'Did a UFO visit Jarrow?' (Shields Gazette - Aug 3, 1979)
Mrs. Pauline Glassock reported seeing an object over Jarrow that she initially thought was a football but kept moving. She described it as silver-coloured, noiseless, and travelling low.

'Flying objects' (Eastern Evening News - Aug 30, 1979)
The British UFO Society is investigating reported incidents of unidentified flying objects and is seeking readers interested in UFOs or who may have had a sighting. They hold no firm views on what UFOs are but acknowledge the possibility of visiting spacecraft.

'THE DAY A UFO HOVERED ABOVE ME' (Peterborough Evening Telegraph - Oct 24, 1979)
Mr. Ken Crowson reported being paralyzed with fear when an unidentified flying object with bright lights hovered above his car near March. He described it as huge, about 20 yards across, shining brightly with lights of all colours, and moving at incredible speed. He now believes in UFOs.

'UFO SEEN' (Southend Evening Echo - Aug 31, 1979)
Two flying instructors at Blackbushe airport reported a nine-inch UFO over Hampshire, described as a flattened blob of mercury with flat hexagonal panels.

'U.F.O. SIGHTED OVER SCHOOL' (Ipswich Evening Star - Oct 23, 1979)
Local residents reported a large object, described as a child's spinning top, red in colour with green lights, moving slowly over Westbourne School. Mr. Ricky Double described it as definitely not a plane or helicopter.

'More witnesses claim they saw that UFO' (Spalding Guardian - Sept 14, 1979)
Several people in and around Spalding reported seeing a mystery object with triangular appearance and lights. Mrs. Jenny Bonnett heard a deep humming noise, while Mrs. Joyce Pugsley and Charles Pugsley described it as like a car with its headlights on. Mrs. Sandra Budd noted two red lights at the front and a white light at the rear, moving slowly.

'Fireball leaves Jim in a panic' (Daily Record - Oct 25, 1979)
Milkman Jim Curran reported a brilliant-coloured UFO trailing flames across the morning sky near North Berwick. Hundreds of other Scots also reported similar experiences, which were attributed by Prestwick Airport to shooting stars.

'U.F.O. over Scotland' (Dundee Courier & Advertiser - Oct 25, 1979)
A spectacular unidentified flying object was seen crossing Scotland early yesterday morning. A "Courier" reporter described it as a large cone of iridescent green light, trailing fiery red, moving at terrific speed. Aviation experts suggested it was a meteorite or similar object.

'Now he believes in UFOs...' (Bournemouth Evening Echo - Oct 30, 1979)
Matthew Turner and Mark Townsend reported seeing four bright lights in a square formation, which later merged into one and disappeared over the sea. They concluded they were flying saucers.

'Riddle of UFO sighting over Ormskirk' (Liverpool Echo - Aug 8, 1979)
Police were trying to unravel the mystery of an unidentified flying object sighted over North Merseyside. Witnesses reported a bright white star-like shape hovering over Ormskirk. The sighting came less than six months after a spectacular orange fireball was seen in the same area.

'A flying saucer bid crash lands' (Western Daily Press - Aug 2, 1979)
This article discusses the failed attempt to establish Frome as a "flying saucer centre." Organiser Michael Pawley stated there were no plans to revive events. Cinema owner Raymond Franklyn expressed relief that the initiative had fizzled out. However, sightings of UFOs, including green laser-type beams, were still being reported in the Frome and Warminster areas.

'It's those little green men again' (Swindon Evening Advertiser - Aug 22, 1979)
Mysterious flash-green lights in the sky caused a UFO scare in the Swindon area. Two green lights were seen towards Chippenham. Alan Tompkins and friends reported seeing them for about 20 minutes. Jaine Blackman also saw the lights. RAF Lyneham had no reports of anything unusual.

'UFO STOPS EDNA IN HER TRACKS' (Burnley Evening Star - Aug 29, 1979)
Mrs. Edna Craston of Barnoldswick reported seeing a silver bullet-shaped object with no wings and making no noise. She described it as a sleek version of an old airship and followed it until it disappeared.

'Did Brian film a flying saucer?' (Macclesfield Express Times - Aug 2, 1979)
Sales engineer Brian Jacklin claims to have filmed an "Unidentified Flying Object" at 37,000 feet while returning from Sweden. He described the object as cigar-shaped, with a domed top, no wings, and bright silver in colour. He believes it was a real aircraft and not a refraction. He wants the film analysed by experts.

'The UFOs came in two by two' (Bournemouth Evening Echo - Aug 4, 1979)
G. Murray of Christchurch reported seeing an object gliding from over the sea, followed by two more. He believes they are not planes and wonders if they are secret weapons or related to magnetic lines.

'UFO MAΝΙΑ TAKES OFF' (Nuneaton Evening Tribune - Aug 21, 1979)
UFO-mania has taken off in North Warwickshire with reports of three sightings in Fazeley, Sheepy Magna, and Kingsbury. Mrs. Beryl Prince reported a bright light the size of a football hovering 100 yards above her, which changed colour and moved erratically.

'How I sighted the UFO' (Sunday Sun - Aug 26, 1979)
Mrs. J. Robson of Gateshead reported seeing a bright light and then an object that appeared to be spinning over and over with red and white lights, which disappeared towards the Newcastle area.

'Strange sight' (Wolverhampton Express - Aug 6, 1979)
A man from Blackford reported seeing several coloured lights travelling under the cloud level, heading from north to south. The report was recorded by police.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this collection of articles is the persistent reporting of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) across various parts of the UK in 1979. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting these events, presenting eyewitness accounts, and noting the initial responses from authorities and UFO research organizations. While some reports are quickly dismissed as natural phenomena or aircraft, others are presented as genuinely mysterious, leaving room for speculation about extraterrestrial visitation or unknown aerial technology. The articles highlight a public fascination with UFOs, with some individuals actively seeking answers and others expressing fear or wonder.

This issue of the NORTH CHESHIRE HERALD, dated August 10, 1979, prominently features the headline "Ministry 'is destroying UFO reports'", indicating a central theme of government secrecy and potential suppression of information regarding unidentified flying objects.

Ministry Accused of Destroying UFO Reports

The lead story details allegations made by HIGH PEAK MP Mr Spencer Le Marchant that the Ministry of Defence is systematically destroying UFO sighting reports before they become legally available to the public. Mr John Stainer of Rock Public Records Act brought this issue to his MP after the Ministry refused to provide reasons for the destruction of reports. Stainer's interest was piqued after witnessing a UFO himself. The Ministry stated that all UFO records prior to 1962 had been destroyed, citing the Public Records Act which prevents publication for 30 years. They also claimed that their function is to assess implications for UK air defence and that there are no reports suggesting this defence is under threat from UFOs. Stainer remains unimpressed, questioning the need for secrecy if most UFOs have natural explanations and expressing his belief that the public has a right to see these reports.

Swadlincote Mystery Sighting

A BURTON DAILY MAIL report from August 23, 1979, details a UFO sighting in Swadlincote. Mrs. Ivy Orme of James Street reported seeing colored lights flashing in the sky at about 9:15 p.m. The lights were stationary and brighter than stars, appearing in red, blue, and green. They suddenly moved upwards and vanished after about four or five minutes.

Baxterley Family's Sightings

The NUNEATON EVENING TIBUNE reported on August 20, 1979, about a Baxterley family's recent sightings of an unidentified object. Mr E Gardner reported that his daughter Lyna saw a bright object in the sky on July 9, and the whole family saw it again on July 22. The object was described as "very brilliant" and stationary above the A5. A Tamworth police officer also reported seeing a similar object a few months prior.

UFO Hoax Revealed

A MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS report from August 9, 1979, reveals a UFO hoax. Photographs of an alleged UFO were submitted to the Federation of UFO Research, but an investigation by a UFO group in Crewe concluded the "UFO" was actually two red fruit bowls suspended from cotton. The photographer confessed to the hoax, stating he intended it as a simple prank to get the photos on file.

Unidentified Light Over Southport

An EXETER EXPRESS report from August 23, 1979, details a sighting by Angela Gallagher and Gary Carroll. While returning home, they saw a blinding white light hovering above them. The light appeared to "look at them" before disappearing, only to reappear later. They reported the sighting to the police, and a policeman accompanied them, but the light had vanished again. Lancashire police received three reports of similar sightings in the Ormskirk and Wigan areas.

Close Encounter of an Intimate Kind

This section, from an unnamed source dated August 23, 1979, details an alleged alien abduction and sexual assault. A 43-year-old Westcountry woman, referred to as Mrs. V, claimed she was taken aboard a spaceship by alien beings on October 16, 1973. She described being examined by aliens and a "robot-like figure" and being sexually assaulted with a tubular device. The researchers investigating the case were convinced she was telling the truth.

UFO Sighting in Baardegem, Belgium

An article from Het Laatste Nieuws, dated September 14, 1979, reports on Eddy Roelandt, a 21-year-old man from Baardegem, Belgium, who was hospitalized with a nervous breakdown after a UFO sighting. On September 4, while driving home with his friend Rudy, they saw a huge ball of fire in the air. The experience terrified them, and Roelandt has been unable to sleep since. He claims to have seen similar phenomena twice before in the vicinity of Baardegem and describes the object as a "huge bowlerhat."

Space Television

A report from Gazet Van Antwerpen, October 10, 1979, mentions an 18-year-old boy's UFO sighting in Nijlen, Belgium, on August 30. He reported hearing a whistling sound, seeing an orange stroke in the air, and parts hitting the ground, creating holes in the road and his coat. Another report from Het Laatste Nieuws, August 21, 1979, discusses "Space television," quoting American astrophysicist W. Sullivan. Sullivan suggested that extraterrestrial civilizations might be able to receive our television emissions due to the combined strength of American and European broadcasts.

That UFO Calls Again

A SUNDAY SUN report from September 2, 1979, details a second terrifying close encounter with a UFO by a North housewife in Felling. The object, shaped like a rugby ball, entered her daughter's bedroom, emitted a dark glow and humming noise, and hovered over her. She felt paralyzed and thought she was going to die before it left. Her husband also heard and saw aspects of the phenomenon. An investigation unit noted similar experiences and is to meet the woman, who wishes to remain anonymous.

Holy Cow! A Visit from the Milky Way

An SWINDON EVENING ADVERTISER article from October 18, 1979, features Mrs. Susan Benning's claim of an early morning encounter with an unidentified flying object. While milking a cow, she heard a humming noise from a large star-shaped object above her. The object, colored blue and silver, had red lights appear and then shrink and move away. Mrs. Benning was sure it was not an aircraft. A spokesman for RAF Lyneham stated nothing airborne was in the area, and a UFO Society member noted that similar sightings had occurred, some of which were later identified as the star Capella.

Flashing Light Remains a Mystery

A CAMBRIDGE NEWS report from November 2, 1979, describes a mysterious flashing white light seen in the sky over Cambridge, puzzling police and the public. Inquiries to air force bases yielded no explanation. The "News" had received reports of three other sightings, including one near Harlton where a USAF fighter-bomber had crashed. Police stated they were not unduly perturbed but could offer no explanation.

Walker Spots a UFO Over Hadham

A HERTS & ESSEX report from October 25, 1979, details a sighting by Mr Earhart Wolfsdorf, a 53-year-old truck driver, of a large, brilliantly shining object with a blue ring over Little Hadham. This was the latest in a series of sightings. Wolfsdorf, who had seen similar objects twice before, stated he now believes in them. A friend noted that such sightings were not uncommon in the area.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are UFO sightings, the potential for government cover-ups or destruction of evidence, and the personal impact of these encounters on witnesses. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these phenomena and allegations, giving voice to witnesses and investigators, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes and natural explanations. The inclusion of a report on "Space Television" suggests an interest in broader questions of extraterrestrial contact. The overall tone leans towards presenting UFO phenomena as a subject worthy of serious consideration, despite the challenges in obtaining official confirmation or explanation.