APCIC - Vol 06 No 01 - 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 6, No. 1
Date: January 1981
Publisher: Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS presents a collection of recent sightings and encounters with unidentified flying objects (UFOs) from late 1980, primarily from the United Kingdom and the United States. The magazine features reports from various local newspapers and includes a list of its editorial staff and foreign correspondents.

Key Articles and Reports

"CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF WHAT KIND?" (LLANELLI STAR WALES, NOV 29 1980)

This article details a sighting by two employees of a Llanelli hairdressing salon, Miss Dianne Harries and Mrs. Pru Pike, who reported seeing a round, luminous object hovering and landing in a field near Trimsaran mountain. Miss Harries described it as being as big as a lorry and glowing orange. Mrs. Pike was horrified, noting it had three bright lights but was not an aeroplane, moving too slowly and too late at night. A Pembrey woman also reported a throbbing noise and a gust of wind.

"Hovering UFO's a puzzle for Phyllis" (BLACKBURN TIMES LANCS, DEC. 11 1980)

Phyllis Banks, Principal of The Blackburn and District Institute of Yoga, reported two puzzling sightings in Blackburn. The first was a glint of silver in the sky that resolved into a cigar-shaped hovering object which disappeared quickly. She wondered if it could have been a gas-filled balloon from the Birmingham Motor Show. Her second sighting involved a cylindrical object with lights rotating around it, moving slowly across the sky, which she initially thought might be a helicopter, but questioned the rotor blade lights.

"More UFO sightings" (KEIGHLEY NEWS VORKS, DEC. 5 1980)

This report covers two additional UFO sightings in the local area. Mr. Malcolm Longstaff of Cottingley spotted two UFOs near his home, describing them as bright stars dropping vertically from the sky with no noise. One appeared to drop over Harden and the other over Wilsden. Mark Adams had previously reported seeing red, green, and white lights travelling from south-west to north-east.

"Now Sue has close encounter" (LANCASHIRE EVENING TELEGRAPH, NOV 17 1980)

Farm partner Sue Critchley claims she saw a space-craft hovering above her car as she drove from Shap to Kendal in the Lake District. She described it as a greyish, squat object with a bright light at the front and short wings, hovering near her car before disappearing. She noted it was similar to a report by Mr. Mario Luisi. Kendal police mentioned a triggered alarm for aircraft crashes in the area.

"CYRIL'S CLOSE ENCOUNTER" (MAIDSTONE GAZETTE KENT, DEC.9 1980)

Mr. and Mrs. Cyril Ellen of Yalding reported seeing a round object like a saucer with a yellow light and red and green flashing lights hovering over the sky. The object moved at speed towards Coxheath after the yellow light went out. They stated it was definitely not an aircraft and made no noise. Police had no explanation and had received no similar reports.

"'FLYING SAUCER' FOLLOWED CAR" (DAILY TELEGRAPH, LONDON, NOV 29 1980)

Three people claimed they were followed in their car by a flying saucer along an isolated road in Co. Durham. Mrs. Rachel Ainslie reported the saucer followed their car for two miles.

"Mario's close encounter" (LANCASHIRE EVENING POST PRESTON, NOV 25 1980)

Paper mill worker Mario Luisi claims he had a close encounter with two beings from another planet. He described them as human-like creatures with pale skins, wearing skin-tight suits and cloaks. He saw their craft, about 16ft long and 8ft deep, hovering off the ground. He reported his experience to the police. A spokesman for Kendal police confirmed Mr. Luisi reported the incident but found nothing.

"Zig-zagging UFO spotted over C'church" (BOURNEMOUTH EVENING ECHO DORSET, DEC.3 1980)

Several people in Christchurch sighted a UFO giving off a brilliant twinkling white light. It was described as moving in a zig-zag pattern, high up, with no sound. It appeared from the west and veered off towards Bournemouth.

"Viv spots her third UFO" (BOLTON EVENING NEWS, DEC. 16 1980)

Miss Viviane Mears, aged 27, reported seeing a multi-coloured object hovering over the Farnworth area. She described it as splitting into three parts like a triangle with a red light circling. A power cut occurred in parts of Farnworth between 9:20 and 10:40 p.m. during the time of the sighting.

"Galactic goings on at Hayling" (PORTSMOUTH NEWS HANTS, DEC.4 1980)

Mrs. Elizabeth Hastings reported seeing a trail of white travelling quickly across the sky near Hayling Island. The object stopped, dropped down in an L-shape, and gradually disintegrated, leaving flame particles. She stated it was not an aircraft and made no sound. Police suggested it could have been helicopters.

"UFOS REPORTED IN TEESDALE" (DARLINGTON STOCKTON TIMES YORKSHIRE, DEC. 6 1980)

Two separate sightings of UFOs were reported in Teesdale. Mrs. Rachel Ainsley described a silver and red object like a large saucer with a dome. Mr. Michael Bowman described a "saucer-like white object with a dull triangular cone on the top." An aurora of Northern Lights was suggested as a possible explanation for one sighting.

"WALTON COULD HOLD CLUE TO UFO RIDDLE" (LIVERPOOL ECHO, NOV 29 1980)

This article discusses how sightings in the Walton area of Liverpool might help solve the riddle of flying saucers. UFO investigator John Morris is compiling a dossier. Theories link sightings to ley lines and ancient landmarks. Two specific sightings are mentioned: an object resembling two tin plates held together by a steel band with lights like an open furnace door, and a flashing light that stopped dead in the sky.

"Sky spy spots a wriggle riddle" (BOURNEMOUTH EVENING ECHO DORSET, DEC. 12 1980)

Ernie Sears, BUFORA PRO, reports seeing an object that gave a "wriggle" or "zigzag" movement before moving at a steady speed. He also notes a similar object seen by a friend emitting two white lights from either end. He suggests these might be related to the Christchurch sighting. BUFORA is collecting reports for investigation.

"EVIL FORCES SO UFO MAN QUITS" (SOUTH WALES EVENING POST SWANSEA, NOV.28 1980)

Retired veterinary surgeon Randall Jones Pugh has quit his role as South Wales co-ordinator for BUFORA, citing "negative and dangerous things" and "evil forces" involved in UFO phenomena. He refused to give details of his personal encounters but stated he had no detrimental psychological effects. He believes the phenomena are not due to alien visits but to overlapping time existences, folklore, leylines, and the cult.

"More UFO sightings" (LYNN NEWS + ADVERTISER, LONDON, DEC. 5 1980)

This section reports on further UFO sightings in West Norfolk. Mrs. Julie Williamson's daughter saw flashing yellow and orange lights. Sallyann Rudd and Jeffrey Warner reported a diamond and triangular shaped craft. Mr. Frank Simpson saw a mystery object flying over the docks. Another woman reported seeing the same shaped craft as Rudd and Warner exactly a year prior.

"UFO over Salem? No one's talking" (PEABODY MASS, TIMES, DEC. 3 1980)

Six Salem residents reported seeing a long, white, cigar-shaped object. Police and UFO investigators could not provide an explanation, as those who called did not give their names. Investigations with local airports and advertising firms yielded no results.

"WILL COUNTY Two separate sightings of apparent unidentified flying objects" (HOMEWOOD ILL. FLOSSMOOR STAR, NOV 27 1980)

Two sightings near New Lenox and Joliet were reported: a green circular light flashing on and off, topped by a smaller, flashing green light.

"Identifiable flying object" (CANTON MO. PRESS-NEWS JOURNAL, DEC. 4 1980)

David W. Steinbeck recounts his and his wife's sighting of a flying object that behaved like an airplane, with a red navigation light. He suggests it might have been an Air Force plane practicing night bombing runs, rather than an extraterrestrial craft.

"Sirius may have been star of UFO show" (JOLIET ILL. HERALD NEWS, DEC. 5 1980)

Dr. James Sweitzer, associate astronomer at the Adler Planetarium, suggests that the star Sirius, which can appear to move and flicker, might be mistaken for a UFO, especially when low on the horizon. Several persons, including Will County sheriff's officers, reported seeing a bright light that moved and appeared to circle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different geographical locations and the persistent mystery surrounding them. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these phenomena objectively, presenting witness accounts, and exploring various explanations, from conventional aircraft and natural phenomena to more speculative theories involving extraterrestrial visitors or other unknown forces. The inclusion of a dedicated clipping service and foreign correspondents indicates a commitment to gathering and disseminating information on the subject. The report about Randall Jones Pugh's withdrawal due to 'evil forces' introduces a darker, more occult-oriented perspective on UFO phenomena, contrasting with more scientific or observational approaches.

This issue of the SALEM MASS NEWS, dated December 3, 1980, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a prominent cover story detailing an incident in Salem, Massachusetts. The issue also includes reports from other locations and delves into the broader context of UFO investigation and belief.

Salemites Spooked by UFO Show This article, by CARL JOHNSON, details a strange aerial event over Salem, Massachusetts, on the evening of December 3, 1980. Numerous residents reported seeing a bright, unusual object in the sky between approximately 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Patrolman Charles Rehal Jr. received calls from across the city, describing the object in similar terms, often as a "brightness in the sky" that could be described as a "long pencil" or "cigar shaped." Some described a white streak and the object hovering before disappearing. Rehal confirmed the callers' sobriety and coherency, and checked with local airports and traffic controllers, who reported no aircraft in the area. Logan controllers' radar also showed no craft over Salem. Mrs. Hilda Beck of 90 Webb St. provided a detailed description, noting the object seemed to hover for about five seconds before disappearing into the cove. Rehal stated that police have a special number for reliable UFO sightings and attempted to contact authorities but could reach no one. Checks with area police and fire departments yielded no other reported sightings. The fire department dispatcher humorously suggested it might have been "Santa making a pre-Christmas test flight."

Caller's UFO a bright star? This brief report from the PALM SPRINGS CAL. DESERT SUN, dated December 11, 1980, describes a call received by Palm Springs police at 5:30 a.m. regarding a "hovering light" over the mountain above Southridge Drive. Lieutenant George Neesan stated that responding officers determined the object to be a "very bright star." Neesan noted that such calls are not uncommon, especially with activities from Vandenberg Air Force Base and the Jet Propulsion Lab.

UFO tips victim with TV broadcast This article recounts the experience of Orlando Bertintat, 19, from Buenos Aires, Argentina. He claims that after announcing its arrival on a television screen, a UFO swept down and two aliens captured him. He described the image on the screen as "very bright with luminous flashes," and stated that the craft landed and burned the ground. Two "small beings" emerged, and then the TV set went off. Days later, Bertintat claims the same craft landed near him at night, and the creatures, identical to those seen on TV, immobilized him with a "mysterious ray" before examining him and flying away.

Tracking UFOs throughout northern Ohio This article by JESSE BOROCZ, published in the CLEVELAND OHIO LAKEWOOD SUN POST on November 27, 1980, features Rick Hilberg, publisher of the UFO Magazine News Bulletin and organizer of the Northern Ohio UFO Group. Hilberg claims that UFO sightings increase in the fall and winter months. He and UFO buff Robert Easley were scheduled to present a program on "The Illustrated History of UFOs" and discuss three recent UFO sightings in northern Ohio. Easley, who has written books on UFOs, claims that the U.S. government has deliberately suppressed information about UFOs, stating, "The U.S. government, in its infinite wisdom, has deliberately lied to the public about UFOs. By doing so, it has created a situation that makes 'Watergate' look like a Sunday school picnic." The article details three specific sightings: one near W. 161 Street and Brookpark Road where four silvery, aluminum-colored discs were seen; a sighting by Joseph Coltrane in Lorain of a shaped object with a dome emitting a pale pinkish light; and a sighting by a Euclid couple of a large, wing-shaped object with no lights.

Enquirer hot on X's UFO trail This article, published in THE KANSAS CITY TIMES on December 20, 1980, details the author's experience being contacted by Bob Pratt, a reporter for the National Enquirer, who was investigating UFO sightings in Missouri. Pratt was seeking information about a mysterious individual referred to as "X" who had observed a cigar-shaped UFO near Sedalia. The author, initially skeptical, eventually learned that "X's" sighting occurred at sunrise on November 19, just hours after widespread UFO sightings were reported across northern and central Missouri on November 18. The article mentions reports from Kirksville, Trenton, and other Missouri towns, describing "headlights cruising in the sky," "bright lights," and various craft shapes like "cigar-shaped," "diamond-shaped," and "delta-shaped." The author notes that the Highway Patrol attributed the events to U.S. military maneuvers, though nearby military officials denied this.

Bright lights still leave us in the dark This article from the TORONTO ONT. CAN. STAR, dated September 28, 1980, features Harry Picken, an aeronautical engineer and president of Genaire Ltd. Picken discusses mysterious bright objects seen over Lake Ontario near Niagara-on-the-Lake, describing them as incredibly bright circles of light that hover and move at incredible speeds, making 90-degree turns that no aircraft could match. He believes these objects are controlled. Picken notes that sightings have increased, with up to 30 or 40 reported per night. He also describes a "blooming" effect just before the objects disappear. The article mentions a U.S. Air Force study concluding only 3% of UFO sightings are inexplicable. It also references the upcoming book "The Roswell Incident" by William Moore and Charles Berlitz, which claims an extraterrestrial vehicle landed in the U.S. in 1947. The article notes that 60% of people now believe in UFOs, up from 15% in 1955.

UFO base in the USA This article from THE GLOBE, dated December 9, 1980, reports on startling new photographic evidence of a UFO base under Lake Ontario, according to professional photographer and UFO investigator Bill Nelson. Nelson has been witnessing strange events for five years and believes there is a UFO base submerged in the lake. He describes the UFOs as large, bright, sodium-orange glowing globes, powerful as searchlights, visible from 15 miles away. They hover, move quickly, and make 90-degree turns. Nelson states that they travel to a point approximately 30 miles south of Toronto and enter the water after a bright flare. He notes that in winter, they cruise across the ice. Recently, construction appears to be assisting landings. Nelson claims to have photos from a government satellite showing the base on the lake bottom and suspects it may be a secret U.S. military project.

If you see UFO Don't embarrass yourself This article from the PLEASANTON CA. ALAMEDA CO. TIMES, dated October 3, 1980, addresses skepticism surrounding UFO reports. It highlights that recent surveys show many adults who report UFOs have at least a high school education, with some being doctors, dentists, and other professionals. The article discusses common UFO shapes, including flying saucers, torpedo/cigar-shaped craft, spherical objects, and balls of light. It mentions a survey where people often say they would believe in UFOs if they saw them. The article includes anecdotes from Kim Rico, who saw an oval object with different lights with eight other people, and Gary Peterson, a reporter nicknamed "Spaceman" for his conviction about seeing a UFO. Linda Thomsen expresses an open mind about UFOs. Clarisa Bernhardt claims to be visited by "Space Brothers." Richard Miller, who has investigated UFOs for 25 years, believes in extraterrestrial life and suggests that aliens might resemble humans. The article concludes by advising readers not to jump to conclusions if they see someone unusual, as they might be a visitor from another planet.

Will County callers report UFOs This article from the KANKAKEE ILL. JOURNAL, dated November 28, 1980, reports that experts are seeking more information on UFO sightings in eastern Will County. Will County police are overwhelmed by calls from "weirdos" reporting flying objects. Over 300 calls were received after an object was reported on Monday night. Three Will County officers reported seeing a bright light moving up and down in the sky early Tuesday morning. Estelle Postol, administrator of the Center for UFO Studies, stated that the length of time an object is observed is important for identification, suggesting that long observations might be of astronomical bodies. She noted that witnesses sometimes confuse the movement of stars with UFOs. Sgt. Watters mentioned that the majority of calls came after the UFO news hit the media. The article also includes reports from Jeffery Poppenbarger, Elwood Police Chief Walter King, and New Lenox Police Chief Joseph Wajchert, who all observed strange lights or objects in the sky.

UFOs kidnapping humans This article, from an EXAMINER publication dated October 28, 1980, discusses the phenomenon of UFO abductions. It features ufologist Leo Sprinkle, who has interviewed over 200 people claiming UFO contact or sightings, with 68 remembering being abducted under hypnosis. Sprinkle notes a consistent pattern in these accounts, including descriptions of humanoids with large eyes, no nose, small mouths, and no hair, or tall, robot-like beings. He describes a common pattern of abduction experiences involving a loss of "missing time." Sprinkle speculates that these abductions are happening but the level of reality is unknown. He aims to document these experiences and help those affected. The article includes several case summaries: Herbert L. Shirmer, Carl Hidgdon Jr., Gayle P. Bever (with a scar), Mary C. Sewall, Sandra Larson, Thomas Jankowski, Pat L. McGuire, Barbara Freund, Millie Lindsey, Kimberle Lenz, and Judith E. Doraty. Ida M. Kannenberg recalls a 1940 encounter where a UFO personality spoke through her. Melinda Chow drew a sketch of an alien creature.

SMALL TOWN IS NORTH AMERICA'S FLYING SAUCER CAPITAL This article, from the EXAMINER, discusses Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada, as a hotspot for UFO sightings. Harry Picken, president of Genaire Ltd., states that UFOs are frequently seen over Lake Ontario. He describes them as bright, deep orange lights that move quickly and make 90-degree turns, unlike aircraft. Picken notes that sightings are more common in winter and that the objects do not appear to be mirages or military aircraft. He suggests that water might provide UFOs with a source of power. The article mentions that 60% of the scientific world admits to phenomena they don't understand.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this collection of articles revolve around UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the investigation of these phenomena. There is a consistent thread of unexplained aerial objects, often described with specific characteristics like bright lights, unusual shapes, and erratic movements. Several articles highlight the role of UFO investigators and organizations in documenting and analyzing these events. A significant theme is the alleged suppression of UFO information by government agencies, with some sources claiming deliberate deception. The articles also touch upon the psychological impact of these encounters on individuals, including claims of abduction and examination by extraterrestrials. The editorial stance, as suggested by the inclusion of these diverse reports and the quotes from investigators, appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, acknowledging that some events defy conventional explanation and that a segment of the scientific community is also exploring these possibilities. There is a clear effort to present eyewitness accounts and expert opinions, even when they challenge established norms.

This issue of the Weekly World News, dated December 23, 1980, is primarily dedicated to reports of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The cover story details an "Incredible glowing UFO" that "stuns housewife & cops" in Farmington, Minnesota, featuring accounts from the housewife and police officers. Another section, from the Hickory N.C. Record, titled "Objects In Sky Upset Burke Residents," discusses unusual aerial phenomena and UFO sightings in North Carolina. The issue also includes reports from various other newspapers across the USA and the UK, covering a wide range of UFO encounters, from simple lights in the sky to alleged abductions.

Farmington, Minnesota Sighting

The lead story describes a glowing white UFO seen by Karen Anondson, a 32-year-old Farmington housewife. She reported the object, which she described as "definitely a UFO" and something that "did not belong there," to police. Patrolman Dan Siebenaler and Patrolman Steve Kurtz of the Apple Valley police investigated. Mrs. Anondson recounted how the object led her home, hovered near her driveway, and then shot across the street before parking over a cornfield. She stated she had seen the object about nine or 10 times over the past three years, and her neighbor, Diane Nelson, also reported seeing the glowing white object regularly.

Burke County, North Carolina Sightings

An article from the Hickory N.C. Record details several unusual events in Burke County, including a vanishing full moon and UFO sightings. A woman reported seeing a "great big bright orange thing with smaller UFOs on each side" hovering at tree-top level. The phenomenon was described as repeating a pattern of the large object stopping while smaller ones moved around it. The vanishing full moon incident occurred during a test by the U.S. Department of Defense, but the UFO phenomena remained unexplained.

Hillsboro, New Hampshire Sighting

The Hillsboro Messenger reports on a Friday night sighting where Bob Goss and his wife witnessed a blue flash of light followed by a large, ball-shaped object glowing brilliantly despite adverse weather. Goss, initially a skeptic, is now reconsidering his views. The Hillsboro police department received several calls about similar sightings in the area. Free-lance photographer Bob Giglio, who has studied UFOs for four years, captured images of a bright, multi-colored light object hovering over a house.

Marlinton, West Virginia Sighting

The Pocahontas Times reports on a UFO sighting on November 22nd by Jim Foster, who heard a loud, oozing sound and saw his room become bright and dim. The object was described as about 50 feet over the house, oval-shaped, with lights all around, and moved away silently. Another sighting in the area involved a light that hovered and moved away at incredible speed with no sound.

Anderson, South Carolina Sighting

Deb Richardson-Moore of the News staff writes about the Jerry McAlister household in Anderson, where a "helicopter-like hum" and "blinding flashes of light" from a "giant saucer" hovering above trees were reported on September 11th. An ABC-TV show, "That's Incredible!," planned to film a re-enactment. The family had received attention from Japanese film crews and the National Enquirer. McAlister also claimed to have been contacted by "The Tonight Show" and "The Merv Griffin Show." The sighting was corroborated by 14 witnesses, including four sheriff's deputies. Larry Garrett described a similar purplish-gray saucer. Investigators from the Scientific Bureau of Investigation reported finding higher-than-normal radiation traces and mild eye burns on witnesses.

UFO Casebook: Hundreds see strange sights in York's skies

This article from John Slykhuis, the last of three parts, discusses the lack of official investigation into UFO sightings in Ottawa, Canada, and the role of the Hertzberg Institute of Astrophysics. It recounts historical sightings, including one by former Georgina councillor Jean Noble and her late husband Dr. Harry Banfield, and another by Mrs. Noble and friends near Snake Island. The article also mentions a sighting by Douglas Mowatt and others by Joan Fichault and the Upiter couple. It touches on the possibility of extraterrestrial origin and mentions Thomas, a spiritual entity communicating through Ruth-Ann Campbell, who claims aliens are already here disguised as humans.

UFOs Solved, New Sighting Reported (Fairfield, N.J. Chronicle)

This article attempts to explain two UFO sightings. One, on October 19th, involved Jean O'Donnell of Totowa seeing a "round white glow" that emitted a beam of light. The other, previously reported, involved a row of white lights and a red light. The Chronicle suggests that these sightings were likely caused by aerial advertising billboards operated by Arnold Meyers of "Star Flite Aerial Advertising" and Lloyd Silverman of "Night Flight Advertising," whose planes flew over the area at the times of the reported sightings.

'Flying Saucers' before his very eyes! (Shields Gazette, London)

David R. Keedy, FRAS, discusses the nature of UFOs, their historical presence, and various classifications (disc-shaped, bell-shaped, cigar-shaped). He notes that while many sightings are explained as meteorological or astronomical phenomena, a small number remain unexplained, with some scientists considering extraterrestrial origins. He describes "close-up" UFO sightings and mentions the difficulty in finding definitive explanations, concluding that while UFOs may or may not be physical or extraterrestrial, psychologically, they do exist.

Did you see a UFO? (Nottingham Evening Post)

The Nottingham UFO Investigation Society is seeking witnesses after two reported sightings: one of a cluster of red and white lights descending vertically, and another of a bright orange-red sphere seen over Eastwood.

'UFO' was Venus' (Yorkshire Post, Leeds)

This article reports on a police chase of an unidentified flying object near York, which was later identified by Dr. Robin Jakeways as likely being the planet Venus. The object was photographed and recorded on radar.

'UFO' frightens young girls (Portales N.M. News-Tribune)

Four girls in Portales, New Mexico, reported seeing two bright lights that appeared to be stars until they started to move and brighten. Police responded, and the lights reportedly moved but later reappeared, not moving but brightened. Astronomers suggested the lights might have been the planets Jupiter and Saturn appearing close together.

Mystery on the 18th green (Hereford Evening News)

A golfing party in Kington reported a strange formation of lights in the sky, described as five bright car headlights. The lights were stationary for about 10 minutes before vanishing. Other golfers and a local bank manager also witnessed the phenomenon.

UFO thought to be meteorite (Western Mail, Cardiff)

This brief report suggests that a mystery Christmas Night object seen by hundreds across England was likely a meteorite breaking up, according to RAF observers.

UFOs... from sightings to abductions (Page 8 & 9)

This extensive article by Derek Naylor discusses the vast number of UFO reports worldwide and the historical skepticism from governments. It highlights the lack of definitive explanations for many sightings, ranging from lights to alleged abductions. The article mentions the "Project Blue Book" investigation and the closure of the U.S. Air Force's UFO investigation. It details specific cases, including the Bolivian farmer Antonia Villas Boas and Police Officer Lonnie Zamora in Socorro, New Mexico, who reported seeing an elliptical object and humanoids. The article also touches on the Russian perspective, with Professor Felix Zigel suggesting UFOs are probes of extraterrestrial origin. It references "The Encyclopedia of UFOs" by Ronald D. Story. Page 9 includes a discussion of the famous Stephen Pratt photograph of "flying saucers" and a debunked Ohio sighting. It also mentions "'UFO' sightings flood RAF switchboard" and a "'UFO BUZZED ME' CLAIM" from Nottingham.

'Bramley hum' is not unique (Surrey Daily Advertiser)

This letter to the editor discusses the "Bramley hum," a mysterious sound heard in various locations, including Manchester and Bristol, with historical accounts dating back to 1727. It notes that the sound appears to have two forms, one irritating and mechanical, the other pleasant. Possible explanations range from machinery to UFOs, but no definitive cause has been found.

More UFO Sightings (Darlington & Stockton Times)

Two people reported seeing a "bright white light" and an object with red and yellow lights in the sky over Teesdale. Another witness reported seeing similar objects near Leeming RAF station.

Essex UFO mystery (Southend Evening Echo)

Mystery lights over Essex on Christmas Day prompted numerous calls to the police. The RAF suggested the lights were likely meteorites or satellites.

A saucer as big as a bullring (Economist, London)

This article from Spain discusses numerous UFO sightings, including a police chase of a UFO over Lerida and a triangular UFO on the Basque motorway. It mentions a report by the pilot of a Spanish Caravelle who claimed to have seen a "Ufo twice as big as a jumbo jet" flying beside his plane, prompting an inquiry by the Spanish general staff.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the prevalence and mystery of UFO sightings, the lack of definitive explanations from authorities, and the persistent public interest in extraterrestrial phenomena. The editorial stance, as reflected in the sensational headlines and the inclusion of various anecdotal accounts, leans towards presenting UFOs as a significant and often unexplained aspect of modern life, with a strong implication of potential extraterrestrial involvement. The inclusion of detailed witness testimonies, photographic evidence (even if some are later debunked), and references to scientific investigations (or lack thereof) suggests an attempt to lend credibility to the subject matter, while the sensational framing aligns with the publication's likely target audience.

This issue of the Owensboro, KY. Messenger-Inquirer, dated December 31, 1980, features a prominent cover story detailing numerous apparent UFO sightings reported across various locations. The publication also includes articles from other newspapers covering similar phenomena in Brazil, Idaho, Illinois, Missouri, Arizona, Indiana, and Britain, suggesting a widespread wave of unexplained aerial events.

Officials Offer No Reason for Apparent UFO Sightings (Kentucky)

The lead article by Stewart Jennison reports on mysterious moving lights witnessed by dozens of Ohio County, Kentucky residents on a clear Sunday night. Officials from the airport, Army, and weather service stated they had no explanation for the sightings. Charlie Jones, a farmer, described seeing dim lights moving at a slow speed that then shot off with traces like fireworks. Policeman Bobby Martin described the lights as resembling a 'Christmas tree' and noted that his son was worried by the experience. Martin himself observed stationary, flashing lights that blinked slowly and thought it was the first time he had seen what people would call a UFO, noting its unusual stillness. Fire Chief Paul May suggested conventional explanations like aircraft or weather balloons, but these could not be confirmed by military or aviation officials. Fort Knox and Fort Campbell reported minimal helicopter activity that would not have accounted for the sightings. The National Weather Service office in Evansville stated that weather balloons do not have multi-colored lights. Airport tower officials in Owensboro and Evansville received no pilot reports of unusual air traffic, though one supervisor suggested pilots might be reluctant to report such events. The privately funded Center for UFO Studies, based in Evanston, Illinois, was expected to investigate the Ohio County incidents, with chief investigator Alan Hendry citing the credibility of witnesses, including law enforcement personnel, as a reason for interest. Deputy Frank Chinn reported seeing a total of eight objects, six of which followed a stair-stepped pattern, hovering quietly and then darting quickly. His observations spanned from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. The widespread reporting was partly attributed to police radio scanners monitoring the sightings.

UFO Landing Described 'Live' by Radio Newsman (Brazil)

This article from the Lantana, Fla. Weekly World News (dated Jan. 6, 1981) details a remarkable event in Brazil where a strange glowing craft allegedly landed on property owned by the Brazilian Army. The craft scorched the soil before departing at blinding speed. The incident was broadcast live on Brazil's Radio Itatiaia network by announcer Nagib Jose Neto. During the broadcast, a witness's car stopped and refused to start, and a policeman's radio temporarily went dead. Dozens of TV sets in the area also reportedly went black. The description of the event was compared to Orson Welles' 'War of the Worlds' broadcast. Highway patrolman Antonio dos Santos reported that his radio failed for almost a minute when he tried to report the sighting. Witnesses described a sphere-like object emitting intense red and orange lights, spinning on the ground, and then rising. It was described as hovering over empty Brazilian Army land. The object reportedly ascended rapidly and disappeared. Upon investigation, witnesses found the grass in the area was totally burned, and a strong, sulfur-like odor accompanied the object. Professor Hulvio Brant Aleixo of Belo Horizonte's Catholic University, who investigated the sighting, concluded it was an authentic sighting of a flying saucer. He noted the UFO generated strange winds and temporarily blacked out TV sets.

Glowing UFO Buzzes Car (USA)

Another report from the Weekly World News describes a UFO shaped like a 'giant Frisbee' that buzzed a woman's car in Sumter, S.C. Mrs. Carmen Deirowec reported seeing the object hovering about 10 feet off the ground over a wooded area. She described it as about 10 feet long, white with lights on the side, and it came within 20 to 25 feet of her car before flying straight up and vanishing. Mrs. Deirowec stated she was now a firm believer in UFOs.

Sightings of UFOs Reported (Kentucky)

This article from the Owensboro, KY. Messenger-Inquirer (dated Dec. 30, 1980) by Stewart Jennison revisits the Ohio County sightings. Sheriff's deputy Frank Chinn, who initially was reluctant to speak, described seeing eight brightly colored, unidentified flying objects moving slowly out of the southeastern sky. He was joined by another sheriff's deputy and a Kentucky State Police trooper. The Ohio County Sheriff's office received multiple reports. Chinn described rotating red, green, and yellow lights resembling an upside-down diamond. He emphasized the lack of sound and slow movement, stating it was definitely not a helicopter. Trooper Don Beemer, who arrived later, described the object as looking like a bright star changing colors, and confirmed it was not an airplane or helicopter. The sheriff's radio dispatcher contacted a UFO reporting center and the Henderson State Police post, but found no reports of downed aircraft or search parties. The article also mentions a research chemist and his wife, and a physician and his wife, who reported seeing a large, silver Saturn-shaped object in Joliet, Illinois, in 1977, which remains unexplained.

Perhaps It Was Star of East? (Idaho)

This report from the Pocatello, Idaho State Journal (dated Dec. 28, 1980) mentions a resident who reported seeing a green flash of light in the skies northeast of Chink's Peak. The man, who asked to remain unidentified, also saw another flash and later noticed an airplane flying low. He had called the Bannock County Sheriff's office, but they had no information.

UFO Seen in Will County is Further Investigated (Illinois)

From the Naperville, Ill. Sun (dated Dec. 12, 1980), this article details an investigation into a UFO sighting reported by Linda Berger. The object was also witnessed by the Will County Sheriff's Department two nights prior. Lt. Karl Sincinski and Sgt. Jay Mau observed the object from 4:30 to 6 a.m., describing it as a 'huge, huge, bright light' with no discernible shape in the darkness. They reported it traveled horizontally, arcked rapidly, and then ascended slowly. Mrs. Berger also observed the object for two hours, describing it as saucer-shaped with four headlights, ascending slowly. The Sheriff's Department sent a report to The Center for UFO Studies in Evanston, and also to The National UFO Center in Seattle. Alan Hendry of the Center for UFO Studies stated that the movements described by Sincinski ruled out a star or planet.

November Reports On UFOs Differed (Alabama)

This article from the Montgomery, Ala. Alabama Journal (dated Dec. 31, 1980) by Nick Lackeos discusses various UFO reports. Recent sightings of glowing pink, purple, and green clouds over Montgomery were explained as the setting sun striking a communications satellite. However, other sightings could not be easily explained. Robert Gribble of the National UFO Reporting Center at Seattle, Wash., reported a rash of UFO sightings from 13 cities in northern Missouri on November 18. Descriptions included 'very large kite-shaped objects,' 'diamond-shaped objects,' and UFOs with 'fuselage shaped like a large cigar' with tapering wings, some launching smaller objects. Radio announcer Dave Counsell of station KTTN in Trenton, Mo., reported receiving numerous calls and witnessing an object that looked like car headlights moving slowly and low. Allen Hendry of the Center for UFO Studies commented on UFO reports and claims of alien encounters, mentioning 'abductions accompanied by amnesia.' He noted that he takes notice of reports from multiple, unrelated witnesses. Hendry also discussed two 1977 reports from Joliet, Illinois, involving a large, silver Saturn-shaped object seen by two couples who did not know each other, which he found baffling and could not explain. He also addressed rumors about alien bodies being kept at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, stating there was no truth to them and that Project Blue Book was discontinued in 1969.

UFO is Reported at Clifton (Arizona)

This front-page report from the Safford, Ariz. Eastern Courier (dated Dec. 17, 1980) details a UFO sighting in Clifton. A Clifton businesswoman described seeing a triangular object with rows of lights, appearing reddish in color, circling the area and heading toward New Mexico before returning. She described it as large, low, and quiet, with a dull jet-like sound. Another resident reported seeing a boomerang-shaped object with lights, floating about 1,000 feet above. It returned later with a loud noise and vibration, described as having reddish-amber lights and being very big. The sightings were witnessed by groups of people and were consistent in description, though some details varied. The incident was reported to an agency in Washington, D.C., and Jim McCoy, field investigator for the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), visited Clifton. Additional reports indicated the object returned to the Clifton area on Friday night. The article notes that similar incidents have been happening for months, with some describing the craft as a 'mother ship.'

Chinese Are Shocked by Sightings of UFOs (China)

An article from the Express and News, San Antonio, Texas (dated Dec. 28, 1980), reports that America's leading UFO expert, Dr. Allen Hynek, was invited to China to investigate what may be the world's most witnessed appearances of flying saucers. A special commission in Peking was gathering details on about 100 separate sightings, involving hundreds of thousands of people across five provinces. Reports described 'saucer and cigar-shaped' objects flashing through the sky at mind-boggling speeds. Dr. Hynek called the situation 'new and potentially exciting.' Lu Wung of the New China News Agency confirmed that a special commission was investigating. Dr. David S. Bean noted that the sightings did not occur near the Chinese border, ruling out Soviet reconnaissance planes and the Chinese Air Force.

UFO Beat (Indiana)

This brief report from the Shelbyville, Ind. News (dated Dec. 20, 1980) mentions a Shelby County woman who reported her car was 'followed' by a glowing disk. The UFO paralleled her car, sped upward, and vanished. The report notes this is similar to an incident from November 1979, where a couple reported a glowing, egg-shaped object followed their car and hovered outside their home.

Sky at Fright Over Britain (Britain)

This article from the Sun, London (dated Dec. 27, 1980), describes Britain being lit up for Christmas by strange lights racing across the sky, witnessed by thousands. Police stations were flooded with calls, and some witnesses were convinced they had seen a fleet of flying saucers. John Simpson described a giant spaceship spurting out smaller craft. The RAF's Observer base at West Drayton suggested it was likely a meteorite breaking up.

Printer Claims a New Comet (Britain)

This report from the Irish Times, Dublin (dated Dec. 25, 1980), details Mr. Roy Panther, a printer, claiming to have discovered a new comet. This discovery was not connected to the Christmas night UFO sightings, which were believed to be a meteorite breaking up.

UFOs Blaze a Trail Across the Sky (Britain)

From the Swindon Evening Advertiser (dated Dec. 27, 1980), this article reports on UFO sightings over Wiltshire. Frankie Cooper described seeing a group of lights like 'orange footballs' traveling slowly across the sky, with trails like flames. The British UFO Research Association was collating reports, but experts believed it was a meteorite breaking up.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout these articles is the widespread nature of UFO sightings, often reported by multiple credible witnesses, including law enforcement and professionals. The lack of official explanations from military and aviation authorities is a consistent point, leading to speculation and investigation by private organizations. Descriptions of the objects vary but often include unusual lights, silent movement, and inexplicable behavior. While some reports are attributed to conventional phenomena like meteorites or satellites, a significant number remain unexplained, fueling public interest and ongoing research into unidentified aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these events as they are presented by witnesses and authorities, acknowledging the mystery and the ongoing efforts to find explanations.