APCIC - Vol 08 No 12 - 1983

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 8, No. 12
Date: December 1983
Publisher: Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.)
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS, published by the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center, presents a collection of UFO sightings and related information from late 1983. The cover prominently features the title and a classic flying saucer graphic, with the issue details for December 1983, Volume 8, No. 12.

Staff and Correspondents

The publication 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 is credited with "supplement" research. A network of foreign correspondents contributes from various countries: G. Roncoroni (Argentina), Jeff Bell (Australia), George Hume (W. Australia), H.C. Petersen (Denmark), Jean Sider (France), M. Mori (Japan), Clypeus (Italy), S. Gerceksever (Turkey), Werner Walter (W Germany), and H. Gontovnick (UFO Canada).

Key Incidents and Reports

Catherine Burk's UFO Encounter (Altoona, PA Mirror, Oct. 18, 1983)

Staff writer Marsha Heim reports on Catherine Burk of Bellwood, Pennsylvania, who claims her car was lifted onto two wheels and shaken by a UFO while driving on Route 220. She described the object as bright silver, large, and flat on top with a round, silver bottom. The incident occurred at night, accompanied by a loud, fast, whirling noise. Mrs. Burk experienced disorientation and was unable to control her car for a period. She also reported a lingering hearing issue and a silver streak in the sky later. Bellwood chief Gregory Ciaccio confirmed the report and noted the object's size as approximately 25 feet wide and three stories high. He stated Mrs. Burk was not drinking and that he filed the report to the "UFO hotline."

Limestone County Deputy's Sighting (The Huntsville Times, Oct. 27, 1983)

Limestone County Deputy Jimmy Harrison reported being pursued by a strange bright light while on patrol near Athens, Alabama. He described the light as speeding up when he did, appearing to follow him. The light veered off as he approached the city limits. Sheriff Mike Blakely mentioned that three orange, translucent garbage bags filled with helium and flashlights were found in a field, possibly related to reported UFO sightings near the Browns Ferry Nuclear Power Plant. TVA officials were investigating if the bags originated from the plant.

O'Hagan Brothers' Klamath Sighting (Del Norte Triplicate, Oct. 26, 1983)

Karl Cates reports on a sighting by the O'Hagan brothers, Michael (12) and Patrick (8), and their friend Aaron Couch (11), near the Klamath River in California. They described seeing a glowing, oval blob emerge from the fog, moving slowly and silently. Aaron Couch managed to take one photograph with a Polaroid camera. The boys were excited and not scared, though Michael noted his brother was surprised. Their testimony has been difficult to corroborate.

Washingtonville Family Sighting (Danville, PA. News, Oct. 24, 1983)

A Washingtonville, Pennsylvania family reported spotting an unusual light in the sky, described by Edgar Miller as 40 times the size of any visible star. The Miller family, including Edgar, Betty, and Ann Reed, watched the light for hours as it moved across the sky. The National UFO Reporting Center suggested it could have been the planet Venus, which appears different from stars and moves across the sky. However, the family maintained it was something else.

Kimmswick Skies Objects (St. Louis, MO. Jefferson Co. Journal, Oct. 12, 1983)

Anne Dunning writes about Susan and Keena Burr of Kimmswick, Missouri, who observed multiple unidentified objects in the sky on a Sunday night. They initially saw a brightly lighted object that stopped erratically, followed by another. As they watched, they noticed three larger, silver and green objects, along with three smaller, flashing red and yellow objects in the background. Keena described the objects as moving in various ways and speeds, appearing about six inches above the horizon. The objects were described as "weird" and moved "awfully fast." The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department reportedly investigated and found the situation unusual.

Rendlesham Forest Incident (Ipswich Evening Star, Suffolk, Oct. 3, 1983)

Paul Durrant reports on an official USAF report confirming a UFO landing in Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, UK, in December 1980. The report, written by Deputy Base Commander Lt. Col. Charles Halt, described a "strange glowing object" that hovered on legs, maneuvered through trees, and disappeared, leaving three depressions on the ground. While the Americans confirmed the report's authenticity, they dismissed claims of "little silver men" inside the craft as "Unlikely, Fanciful and Outlandish." The publication of this report was welcomed by local UFO investigators like Mrs. Dot Street, who felt it was a step against "cover-up."

Essex Kind Encounters (Southend Evening Echo, Oct. 5, 1983)

This article links UFO sightings in South East Essex with the Rendlesham Forest incident. While the air force initially dismissed a newspaper report about the UFO incident as far-fetched, a spokesman admitted that Lt. Col. Charles Halt's report, detailing UFOs and a landing, was genuine. Three mystery lights seen above Great Wakering on December 27, 1980, by Anthony Pickering and his daughter Deborah, were among dozens of calls received by police and coastguards. The RAF suggested these lights might have been a satellite re-entering or meteorites.

County Man Spots a 'Silent' U.F.O. (Lincolnshire Daily Echo, London, Oct. 5, 1983)

A man in Lincolnshire, England, Benjamin Franklin, reported seeing a UFO in his garden near Digby. He described a round, brightly lit object with a flashing bottom half that stayed for about 10 minutes before flying away. He followed the lights with binoculars. Franklin noted the object made no noise and moved much faster than any aircraft he was accustomed to seeing from nearby RAF stations. Flt. Lt. Mike Fogarty of RAF Waddington had no explanation for the sighting.

Ipswich UFO Scare (Ipswich Evening Star, Suffolk, Oct. 5, 1983)

This article discusses the possibility that UFO sightings, such as one in Ipswich on September 25, 1981, might be explained by Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) being developed by the US and Canadian military. The Ipswich sighting involved hundreds of residents observing an object with immensely bright stars, a smaller red light, and an odd metallic whine. Investigations revealed that the lights might have been from a Lockheed CSA Galaxy aircraft on approach to Mildenhall. The Ministry of Defence's UFO sightings section categorizes observations, with a significant portion attributed to aircraft, satellites, balloons, and flares, leaving a remainder unidentified.

Early UFO Sighting (Stourbridge County Express, Worcs, Sep. 30, 1983)

Local historian Norman Jones is investigating a potential UFO sighting from 1910 in Halesowen. He is examining old newspaper records, including a cutting from the County Express of September 11, 1910, which reported several residents seeing a large aeroplane with brilliant lights traveling rapidly. This is being compared to information about an early aircraft built by a Welsh aviator in 1910, which may have used illuminated instruments and weights for navigation.

How to Report a Sighting

An article titled "Where to report a sighting" advises that anyone spotting an unidentified flying object should first contact local police, not the U.S. Air Force. Maj. Phil Ratliff of the Pentagon's public affairs office stated that the government stopped investigating UFO complaints after "Project Blue Book" in 1969 and now refers calls to private organizations. The Center for UFO Studies operates a hotline ((312) 491-6666) that takes caller information via an answering machine. The article also notes that sometimes sightings can be explained by phenomena like missile launches or low-flying military jets practicing maneuvers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights witness testimony as the primary source of information for UFO sightings. There is an underlying theme of skepticism from official sources, with the military often offering conventional explanations (aircraft, satellites, Venus) or dismissing reports as "far-fetched." However, the publication of the Lt. Col. Halt report on the Rendlesham Forest incident suggests a growing acknowledgment of the phenomenon's potential reality, even if specific details are debated. The A.P.C.I.C. itself appears to be a dedicated information center for UFO-related clippings, publishing monthly news releases and offering subscription services. The editorial stance leans towards presenting these reports and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also providing practical advice on reporting sightings and exploring possible explanations.

This issue of the Sunday Express, dated October 2, 1983, prominently features the headline "I saw UFO land - American officer," detailing a report from a senior American Air Force officer about a UFO sighting in Suffolk during Christmas 1980. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the report. The issue also includes reports from other newspapers such as the Bradford Telegraph & Argus, Hinckley Times, Western Daily Press, New Scientist, Northern Echo, Examiner, Yorkshire Evening Post, and Huddersfield Examiner, covering various UFO sightings and related topics from late September and October 1983.

Key Articles and Reports

Sunday Express: American Officer's UFO Landing Report

A senior American Air Force officer, Lieut-Colonel Charles I. Halt, deputy commander of the USAF 81st Tactical Wing at RAF Woodbridge, reported seeing a "red, sun-like light" land in Suffolk on December 27, 1980. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the sighting, stating that the officer was off-duty and submitted a report. However, former Ministers of Defence, Sir John Nott and Sir Ian Gilmour, expressed skepticism, with Sir John stating he knew nothing about it and Sir Ian calling it "absolute rubbish."

Western Daily Press: 'But we saw little silver men first...'

This article by Sally Mays discusses the reaction of UFO watcher Mr. Ken Rogers of Warminster to the reported landing in Suffolk. Rogers claims the details are identical to many sightings in Warminster, including "silver suits of the beings from the craft." He notes that ancient Ley lines, thought to attract space visitors, cross the Suffolk site. The report also mentions a secret document allegedly written by Lt. Col. Charles Halt, describing a craft landing in a "red ball of light" on December 27, 1980, witnessed by military and civilian personnel, with farm animals reacting erratically.

Bradford Telegraph & Argus: Woman Tells of UFO Riddle

An Oakworth woman claims a mysterious bright light was seen hovering over Harden village on two successive nights in September 1983. The "yellow" glow was accompanied by a low humming noise. The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said her mother first saw the light, and then woke her up to witness it hovering low near the horizon. No similar sightings were reported to Keighley police.

Hinckley Times: Saw UFO Over Common

A Burbage man, Mr. Bowlsworth, reported seeing a UFO with bright yellow lights descend slowly over Burbage Common on September 5, 1983. The object reportedly skipped along the ground, then rose and circled over the woods before disappearing with a flash. A team from the Midlands UFO Research Centre investigated the site but found no natural explanation.

New Scientist: When is a UFO not a UFO?

This review of Philip Klass's book "UFOs: the public deceived" highlights Klass's skeptical approach to UFO claims. The review mentions Klass's investigation into the Travis Walton abduction case, where he claims Walton failed a lie-detector test and that researchers suppressed inconvenient facts. Klass argues that ufologists have become overly credulous since the Walton case, leading to a "rapid slide into hypercredulity." The book is recommended for anyone seriously interested in UFOs.

Northern Echo: Ministry duck riddle of 'UFO landing'

This article confirms that the Ministry of Defence received details of a UFO landing reported by an American airman. It reiterates the News of the World report about Lt. Col. Charles Halt's document describing a craft landing in a "red ball of light" on December 27, 1980, near Bentwaters, Suffolk. The report allegedly mentioned farm cattle and forest animals running beserk, a metallic, triangular object, and beings in silver suits. A USAF captain stated there were "some lights" but no "little green men."

Rouses Point, N.Y. Globe: Soviets Grab Crashed UFO and Take Crew To Secret Base

This report claims Russian military forces captured a crashed UFO and its crew in the Sea of Okhotsk. U.S. intelligence sources and UFO experts fear the Russians may have transported the craft and crew to a secret research center in Siberia. The account is based on reports from Chinese and Japanese spies and eyewitnesses, including a former Soviet intelligence officer, Jan Klashnov. It describes jets attacking the UFO after it crash-landed, and subsequent transport of the craft on huge flatcars, possibly containing cages.

Examiner: UFOs invade Red China

This article by Lewis Clifton details how Red China has been invaded by UFOs, with citizens being called upon to act as spotters. Dr. Keiji Nakamura suggests that UFO activity peaks during periods of military activity and that alien intelligences may be monitoring China's war-making capabilities. The article cites several sightings in China, including a flat, oval object seen by Zhang De-ngzhou and a golden, cylinder-shaped object reported by Wang Ting-yie. Officially sanctioned UFO organizations have been formed, but research is largely left to spare time activities.

Yorkshire Evening Post: The 'Meanwood Landing' mystery

This is the first in a series detailing UFO sightings in Yorkshire, focusing on the "Meanwood Landing" in Leeds. Graham W. Birdsall, Chairman of the Yorkshire UFO Society, recounts the incident where two 14-year-old girls, Lynsey Tebbs and Susan Pearson, saw a grey object with lights descend in the snow in February 1979. The object was described as being about the length of a car and four feet high. The girls' descriptions and drawings, along with subsequent investigation, convinced their parents of the reality of the encounter. The article notes the discovery of an "E" shape depression and a circular hollow at the landing sites. It also mentions a similar sighting by two ambulance drivers.

Yorkshire Evening Post: Railwayman's weird sighting

This article continues the series on UFOs in Yorkshire, relating the story of a frightened railwayman who experienced a UFO phenomenon near Headingley in February 1979. While walking home, he saw a bright green glow that paced him. He then saw a solid, triangular shaped object rise above him. The man reported that his footsteps in the snow ended a few feet away, and he was gently lowered back to the ground by the object. He requested absolute confidentiality and has never returned to that stretch of line. The article also mentions other sightings in West Yorkshire and a report from Otley of three cigar-shaped objects.

Huddersfield Examiner: The Pennine UFO Mystery

This review of Jenny Randles's book "The Pennine UFO Mystery" highlights the numerous UFO sightings in the Pennines region of North England. It mentions a specific case near Holmfirth in August 1975, where a driver described an "egg"-shaped object, about 20ft long, passing very close to his car. The book also discusses the death of Zigmund Jan Adamski in 1980, whose body was found with unexplained marks, including a burn mark, leading to rumors of a "death by UFO." The review notes the determination of the Manchester UFO Research Association to investigate these mysteries.

Examiner: Nuns abducted by aliens

This article reports on the alleged abduction of three nuns in Central America by a UFO. A private investigator hired by the nuns' parents found evidence that they were spirited away by "weird beings in a flying saucer," contradicting initial theories of political assassination. The report describes a scorched, circular area in a swampy jungle and testimony from local Indians who witnessed the nuns walk up a ramp into a metallic, saucer-shaped object with pulsating blue lights before it disappeared at high speed.

Portsmouth News: 'Oyster in the sky' seen as U.F.O.

Two men in Bedhampton reported seeing an oyster-shaped object with five separate lights cruising slowly overhead on a Monday morning. Engineer Roger Woods described the object as bright and travelling at about 2,000 ft. He noted its design, comparing it to a cigar or oyster shape, and that it made no noise.

Hull Daily Mail: Sir Patrick in search for UFOs

Beverley MP Sir Patrick Wall asked the Defence Department about unexplained sightings or radar intercepts since 1980. The Armed Forces Minister, John Stanley, stated that over a three-year period, there had been no corresponding unexplained radar contacts but was ready to disclose reported sightings of concern from a defence standpoint. Sir Patrick expressed a need for an "open mind" and noted the Government's hesitancy to respond, despite a memo about "unusual lights" near RAF Woodbridge being released under the Freedom of Information Act.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are UFO sightings, alleged landings, and potential alien encounters. There is a clear division between those who report these phenomena with conviction and those who approach them with skepticism, such as Philip Klass and some government officials. The articles highlight the role of military personnel and government agencies in both reporting and investigating these events, as well as the public's fascination and concern. The editorial stance, as reflected in the selection of articles, appears to be one of presenting a wide range of UFO-related news and accounts, from official confirmations of sightings to skeptical analyses and eyewitness testimonies, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

This issue, dated October 1983, features a prominent cover story titled "Looking for a close encounter" from the STOCKPORT TIMES. It delves into the world of UFO phenomena, presenting various sightings, investigations, and personal accounts from both the United Kingdom and the United States.

Key Articles and Reports

Stockport Times (October 21, 1983): "Looking for a close encounter" by Eileen Payne

This article introduces David Oliver, a self-proclaimed "Ufologist" from Stockport, who describes himself as a skeptic, believing 90% of sightings are natural phenomena or practical jokes. Oliver, along with David Frost, is one of only two local BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) members. He aims to interview people who have reported UFO sightings. BUFORA lectures cover topics like the Loch Ness monster and religion in relation to UFOs. Oliver recounts a personal experience of seeing a bright, unexplained light in the sky in 1980, which he describes as "weird." He notes that Stockport is not a particularly active area for sightings, recalling a report of "little green men" in Reddish Vale about 15 years prior.

The Nottingham Recorder (October 6, 1983): "UFO group probe 'strange lights' reports"

The Nottingham UFO Investigation Society is investigating reports of "strange lights in the sky" over the Belvoir Castle area. A society spokesman urged anyone who has seen anything unusual in the district to come forward. The reports follow weekend stories about a supposed UFO landing in Suffolk in 1980. Syd Henley is the sightings co-ordinator for the society.

Pulman's Weekly News, Yeovil (October 25, 1983): "No UFO reports say police"

Chief Inspector Robin Finnemore of Seaton Police stated they had no reports of a UFO over their area, commenting on a BBC broadcast by David Jacobs on Radio 2. Jacobs and Mrs. Shirley Williams reported seeing a brilliant white light shoot across the M1 in Leicestershire, described as too low and bright to be a shooting star. Similar sightings were reported across the country, but a Ministry of Defence official confirmed no unidentified flying object reports had been logged.

Examiner (November 8, 1983): "Was suicide a space alien?"

This article investigates a mysterious body found in Florida's Everglades, prompting speculation about whether it was an alien suicide. A UFO investigator suggested the circumstances indicated the deceased was not human, citing multiple self-inflicted wounds with unusual methods. Authorities were baffled by the identity of the man and how he reached the remote area. The victim was wearing ill-fitting shoes, yet had very expensive gold crowns in his teeth. He also carried a suitcase, but destroyed its contents by burning them. No missing persons reports matched the description of the man, leading the investigator to theorize he was an "E.T. in a scouting mission" who panicked and took his own life.

St. Louis Post Dispatch (October 10, 1983): "UFOs? 6 Of Whatever They Were Reported Sighted In Kimmswick"

Residents of Kimmswick, Missouri, reported seeing six unidentified foreign objects, described as silver-colored and oval-shaped with two protruding lights, glowing alternately red and green. The objects moved in precise formation. About nine friends and family members confirmed the sightings, which local law enforcement authorities also observed but deemed "out of our jurisdiction."

Warrington Guardian, Lancs (October 21, 1983): "MYSTERY OUT OF THIS WORLD!"

David Jacobs reported seeing a flying saucer, leading thousands to call the BBC with similar sightings. Trevor Buckley, Editor-in-Chief of Cheshire County Newspapers, recounts his own sighting of a bright white light on the M6 motorway, which he initially mistook for a meteorite. He describes it as a large, bright object that flashed from east to west, leaving a white light trail and disappearing in about two seconds. He concludes that it was "anything of this world."

Camberley News & Mail (October 25, 1983): "Couple's new UFO sighting"

Peter and Patricia New reported seeing a "weird" unidentified flying object hovering over them near Normandy. Mr. Omar Fowler of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena is seeking other witnesses. The object was described as a large dark mass with round porthole-type lights, stationary and suspended about 200 feet up. Mr. New, who works with aeroplanes, stated it was unlike anything he had encountered in his 25-year career. The couple also saw the object again later that night.

Mt. Kisco, N.Y. Patent Trader (March 25, 1983): "What was that brightly colored object reported in area skies Thursday?"

Residents in Northern Westchester, New York, reported seeing an unexplainable object in the spring sky. Police in Yorktown and New Castle, along with residents in Mount Kisco and Chappaqua, reported seeing "unexplainable lights in the cosmos." Observers described an arrowhead or V-shaped array with "green and white lights" that made no noise and hovered, moving very slowly. A New Castle resident, initially a skeptic, became a believer after witnessing the event. Sgt. Robert Cercena noted one call described the object as "like a whitish owl." John Tower, supervisor for Westchester County Airport, suggested a logical explanation might exist but could not identify the object, theorizing it could be several aircraft in formation or an aircraft with advertising.

Philadelphia Inquirer (April 5, 1983): "A massive object lights up the Southern California sky."

Authorities in Los Angeles were unable to identify a flaming white object that streaked across the sky, prompting calls to law enforcement agencies in five counties. The object, seen around 8:30 p.m. Saturday, might have been a meteorite or space debris. It crossed the sky from southeast to north and disappeared over the Pacific.

The Daily Item, Port Chester, NY (March 26, 1983): "Hundreds claim to have seen UFO"

Yorktown police and neighboring departments received over 100 calls about strange lights in the sky, described as an Unidentified Flying Object. The descriptions matched those reported a week earlier in Putnam County, detailing a V-shaped object with lights along the edges of a large triangular craft. Patrolman Kevin Soravilla saw the lights twice, describing the craft as huge and moving in unusual directions. Airport officials and the Air National Guard reported no aircraft in the area. Some witnesses thought it might be a dirigible. Police officers also witnessed the phenomenon, with Sgt. Anthony Masi stating, "This is not a case of kooks calling - police officers saw it, too." Bonnie O'Brien described the lights initially as one object that differentiated. A truck driver reported seeing lights 10-15 feet off the ground, which he described as "as big as one of the hangars we have here," and that lights were ranged along the edges of the craft. A Brewster resident corroborated the account. Air National Guard security detachment Sgt. Joseph Andrew noted the lights were different from military aircraft and expressed envy for those who had seen the phenomena.

Reading Evening Post (LON) (March 16, 1983): "UFO alert as mystery light passes over Berks"

Air force bases in the Thames Valley scanned the skies after a glowing white object was spotted west of Reading. US Air Force radar tracked the object, described as a "primary target" but unidentifiable. It disappeared around 9:15 p.m. A Hungerford woman reported the slowly-moving bright white light. NATO air traffic control at Upper Heyford confirmed reports of a sighting earlier that day. Berkshire villagers reported the object moving slowly west. Astronomers confirmed nothing unusual should have been in the western sky except Venus. USAF Upper Heyford air traffic controller Sgt. Byrd Cormier stated the light was bouncing off something and could not be identified. Corporal Candellin at Brize Norton was unable to pick up the object. Squadron Leader Hayes at RAF Benson noted nothing on radar, but almanacs indicated Venus might be visible.

Reading Evening Post (LAN) (March 17, 1983): "UFO 'like a bowler hat'" by Kevin Connolly

This article follows up on the previous day's UFO sighting, reporting more sightings of the object, described as shaped like a bowler hat with a flat base and a brilliant light. Sophisticated radar at the Upper Heyford US Air Force base pinpointed the light from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Callers reported the UFO was seen again later that night and exactly one week prior. A Yattendon garage proprietor described the object as a brilliant light like a magnesium flare. He dismissed the idea of a barrage balloon. A nine-year-old girl had seen the brilliant, glowing ball exactly a week before. Astronomers confirmed it was not a satellite or Venus.

Cornish Guardian, Bodmin (March 17, 1983): "STRANGE ENCOUNTER"

This piece reviews the book "George Adamski: The Untold Story," which reappraises the controversial UFO researcher George Adamski, who claimed to have met aliens in the Californian desert. The book combines witness accounts and technical analysis of photographs.

Mt. Kisco, N.Y. Patent Trader (March 28, 1983): "It wasn't the first time for UFO's close encounter" by Steve Fraioli and Eric Gross

This article details sightings of a V-shaped object with green and white lights that occurred on two separate Thursdays. The object zig-zagged, stopped completely, and disappeared north without sound. A Somers woman and her husband reported a similar sighting a week earlier, describing it as a "boomerang shape with a cluster of lights underneath" and "massive." They feared prank calls due to their experience. Airport officials speculated it could be several airplanes flying in formation. The object reportedly flew 700 feet off the ground and made no sound. Authorities at several airports reported numerous calls about a V-shaped object. A spokesman suggested it might be "formation planes" or "small planes." Another explanation offered was an "airplane with an electric sign underneath." Police officer Donald Little reported seeing the object hover over the police station. The article concludes that people in the area would be looking skyward for similar phenomena.

Worle News (April 12, 1983): "Man kidnapped by aliens is living in a nightmare" by Dawn Hunt

This article features Bill Herrmann of Charleston, S.C., who claims to have had spectacular close encounters with space aliens and sightings of 15 unidentified flying objects. He regrets speaking out, having been ridiculed and threatened, and is taunted with the nickname "UFO Bill." Herrmann recounts his first abduction in 1978, waking up 12 miles from where he was taken, and a second flight in 1980 that lasted 3.5 hours and took him over Florida. He describes the beings as brown, frog-like, 4.5 feet tall, weighing 50-60 pounds, with fluidy bodies, brown eyes, and webbed fingers and toes. They wore suits without buttons or zippers. He claims to have proof, including a metal bar inscribed with "MAN." He advises others to keep quiet unless they have definite proof. His own daughter has expressed disbelief.

Globe (April 12, 1983): "CRASHED UFO ALIENS Chat With HUMANS" by John Blackburn

This report details a supposed incident in 1980 where a giant UFO crash-landed near a US Air Force/NATO base in southeastern England. Three silver-suited aliens allegedly chatted with a top American officer for four hours while repairing their spacecraft. British UFO expert Brenda Butler claims to have "firmest possible evidence." An eyewitness, a security sergeant at the Bentwaters base, reportedly saw the aliens descend and converse with an officer, identified as Col. Richard Pascoe. A five-man security team investigated and found triangular landing marks. The control tower at Bentwaters observed the object. Pascoe reportedly ordered the airmen to leave and confiscated their pictures, swearing them to secrecy. The spacecraft later departed at high speed. Col. Ted Conrad, then base commander, admitted seeing the landing marks and interviewing eyewitnesses. Lord Clancarty, a member of Parliament and UFO expert, stated that both governments are trying to hush up the incident, fearing public alarm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles revolve around UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and close encounters with alleged extraterrestrial beings. There is a clear interest in documenting witness accounts, from ordinary citizens to police officers and even military personnel. Several articles highlight the skepticism surrounding these events, with some individuals, like David Oliver, identifying as "skeptics" who believe most sightings have mundane explanations. However, the articles also present compelling narratives that challenge conventional explanations, such as the Florida Everglades case and the alleged alien encounter at Bentwaters. The role of media, particularly local newspapers and radio, in reporting and investigating these phenomena is evident throughout. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on these events with a degree of open-mindedness, while also acknowledging the skepticism and the challenges in obtaining definitive proof. There's an underlying suggestion of potential government secrecy or downplaying of UFO incidents, as hinted at in the "CRASHED UFO ALIENS" article.

This issue of THE HERALD STATESMAN, dated May 22, 1983, with volume identifier 7424, focuses on the growing mystery surrounding numerous UFO sightings in the Westchester and Putnam areas during March and April of that year. The cover story, "Those weren't just any UFOs," highlights the widespread nature of these events and the ongoing investigations.

Key Articles and Reports

"Those weren't just any UFOs" by E.B. Walzer: This lead article details the unidentified flying objects sighted in Westchester and Putnam. The sightings, which occurred over a month-long period in March and April, have not been seen recently but are still being investigated by UFO experts. Philip Imbrogno, a local field investigator for the Center for UFO Studies, has been working on the case since March 24, when over 100 people reported seeing lights in Putnam and northern Westchester. Imbrogno estimates that at least 3,500 people have seen the lights, calling it "one of the most important cases in UFO history" due to the sheer number of witnesses. J. Allen Hynek, director of CUFOS and former head of the U.S. Air Force's "Project Blue Book," agrees that the case is interesting and unusual because of the high number of witnesses. Hynek notes that while UFO sightings by many people often have natural explanations, none has been provided for this case. Most witnesses described a massive V-shaped object with multi-colored lights, hovering as low as 30 feet from the ground, making sudden right-angle turns, and emitting a low humming noise. Imbrogno has received 350 reports, estimating that only 10% of witnesses report their sightings. The article mentions earlier sightings in the area dating back to 1979. The most common explanation offered by authorities is that the lights are from a flight of low-flying aircraft, but attempts to identify such planes have failed. Imbrogno and other witnesses dispute this, noting that the objects moved in ways unlike conventional aircraft. Some theories suggest the lights could be from secret government craft or even a hoax. The article also touches on the historical context of UFO sightings, referencing Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting and the term "flying saucer," as well as the "close encounters" concept popularized by J. Allen Hynek, citing the Betty and Barney Hill case.

"UFO sightings nothing new" by E.B. Walzer: This article provides historical context, noting that UFO sightings are not new to the Westchester-Putnam area or to UFO research in general. It reiterates that the V-shaped lights are a common UFO shape. Imbrogno is investigating reports from March 17, 24, and 26. He notes that the V-shape is a common form of night UFO sighting and that UFOs can take various shapes. The article mentions that on March 24, police switchboards were flooded with calls from residents reporting strange lights. While police believe they came from propeller airplanes flying in formation, this explanation is disputed by many witnesses and investigators like Imbrogno and Fred Dennis. The article highlights that many witnesses reported seeing a structure, a "gray shape," and some heard propellers while others did not. It also mentions the Betty and Barney Hill encounter as a famous "close encounter."

"Questions fly over Putnam UFO" by Janet Higbie: This article from the Danbury, Conn. NEWS-TIMES reports on the ongoing investigation into hundreds of reported sightings of an unidentified flying object in Putnam and Westchester counties. Philip Imbrogno, a high school science teacher from Greenwich, is gathering information for the Center for UFO Studies. He and a team of five researchers began studying the sightings after reading newspaper accounts. The article details that the most recent series of reports began on March 17, with the Kent Police Department receiving about a dozen calls about a low-flying object. The following week, more than a hundred calls came in from various towns. Imbrogno has received over 300 calls himself, noting the unusual mass of reports from a single area. Most people described a massive, V-shaped object with multi-colored lights, flying at tree-top level, about 100 to 150 feet across, and made of gray metal. Witnesses reported a humming noise and easy maneuvering, unlike conventional aircraft. Callers come from diverse backgrounds, including professionals. The article mentions Linda Nicoletti's account of seeing red and white lights and a V-shaped aircraft flying silently. It also features 17-year-old Jeffrey Salmonese, who took photographs of a large V-shaped object on March 24. A government official, who asked to remain anonymous, reported the craft hovered overhead and projected a beam of light. Some callers reported radio reception interference. Police officials, including Carmel Police Chief Charles Lewis and Trooper S.J. Riley, are skeptical, suggesting the sightings could be small airplanes in formation or a hoax. Lewis's main concern is that UFO calls might tie up emergency lines. Captain Philip Prinz of the Putnam County Sheriff's Department also expressed skepticism.

"Local UFOs called 'historical' and 'interesting'" (from page 1 of an unspecified publication): This article discusses the ongoing investigation into UFO sightings, with Imbrogno theorizing that the lights could come from secret government craft or unconventional vehicles. He believes at least two separate UFOs may have been in the area, describing one as triangular and the other as boomerang-shaped. A baffling piece of evidence is that photographs taken by witnesses of the object came out blank or showed background details but no UFO. Imbrogno plans to search for physical evidence like burn marks or depressions. In a related development, police are investigating mysterious explosions in Easton, Conn., near where UFOs were spotted. Imbrogno is continuing to interview witnesses, finding them to be stable individuals who had incredible encounters.

"Is UFO a hoax by top pilots?" by Steve Fraioli: This article from the MT. KISCO, N.Y. PATENT TRADER questions whether the UFO sightings are actually a squad of precision-flying, single-engine planes. Malcolm Sheahan, flight service official for the FAA, suggests that the "UFO" is likely four or five planes flown in precise formation by skilled pilots, creating an illusion. He states they are "no dummies" and know exactly what they are doing. Sheahan explains how such a formation could create the illusion of a single craft stopping mid-air, appearing large, being silent (by cutting engines), and flying at slow speeds. He notes that the planes' identification numbers are not visible at night. He suspects it might be a group flying out of Stormville Airport. FAA Investigator Tom Slocum also believes it's a group of pilots flying in formation, but possibly out of Westchester. The article notes that Stormville Airport officials denied the charge, and subsequent calls went unanswered. Sheahan suggests that if the sightings reappear, viewers should consider his theory.

"Red Baron flies again" (BEACON, N.Y. NEWS): This brief report states that residents saw what they believed to be a UFO, but police agencies attributed it to a group of small single-engine planes flying in formation. Calls were received between 9 and 9:45 p.m. A state trooper confirmed that officials at Stormville Airport reported a group of single-engine planes flying in close formation. The planes had assorted red and green lights, and possibly landing lights. Those who saw the lights disagreed with authorities, stating they could not hear engines and that the lights did not appear to be planes.

"BOYS' UFO TALE TO GO ON TV" (LINUTHOWSHIRE JOURNAL GAZETTE): This article from March 25, 1983, reports on three Bo'ness boys who claimed to have seen a UFO. Colin Rowley, Derek Grant, and Norman Hogg described a dome-shaped object with a yellow-orange glow. They reported it made no noise and was about 20 meters long. Their story gained attention, and a TV-AM program, "Data Run," planned to interview the boys and pupils from a local school. Colin's father initially disbelieved the story but began to have second thoughts after hearing that other sightings had been reported in the area.

"Probe into new UFO sighting" by Kevin Connolly (READING EVENING POST): This article reports on more sightings of the UFO that sparked a "red alert" in the Thames Valley. An investigation was launched by Stephen Chetwynd, a Berkshire investigator for the British Unidentified Flying Objects Association. A Maidenhead jogger reported seeing the same eerie light that triggered the first alert, describing it as a yellowish light moving slowly and fading away. The report was confirmed by another jogger. The Royal Observatory at Herstmonceaux suggested the planet Venus might be visible, but the jogger stated the night was too cloudy to see stars. The Evening Post is appealing for more information from readers.

"UFO's in Clay?" (CELINA, TN. CLAY STATESMAN): This article details a sighting on March 25, 1983, by John McGongile and Danette Jones, who observed two strange lights hovering in the sky. They drove to the home of Danette's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Ray Jones, and observed the thing hovering above them. It made no noise and had no color in the darkness. Danette took two pictures of the object. Joe Ray Jones was unimpressed, stating, "I want to see the rest of Dallas." Sheriff's deputies were called but found nothing. Mr. McGongile checked radar in Nashville without success.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes across these articles are the widespread nature of the UFO sightings, the consistent descriptions of the objects (particularly the V-shape and silent, low-altitude flight), and the contrast between witness accounts and official explanations. There is a clear editorial stance favoring the reporting of witness testimonies and the investigative efforts of UFO researchers like Philip Imbrogno and J. Allen Hynek. While some articles present skeptical viewpoints from authorities, the overall tone leans towards acknowledging the mystery and the validity of the witnesses' experiences, suggesting that these events are significant and warrant further investigation beyond simple explanations like aircraft formations. The articles highlight the public's fascination and the ongoing search for answers to these unexplained aerial phenomena.

Title: THE REPORTER DISPATCH
Issue Date: July 15, 1983

This issue of The Reporter Dispatch, dated July 15, 1983, investigates various UFO phenomena, exploring potential explanations, government involvement, and unusual encounters.

Article: Planes behind part of UFO sightings

By E.B. Walzer, Staff Writer

The article details an investigation into UFO sightings, particularly those occurring in northern Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties, USA, since March. Reporter E.B. Walzer, along with UFO investigator Philip Imbrogno and freelance writer Chris Clark, staked out Stormville Airport in Dutchess County. They observed two, then three, small, single-engine planes flying in a V-shape formation, which they identified as the source of some of the reported lights.

Imbrogno, an investigator for the Center for UFO Studies, stated that these planes explained about 75 percent of his paperwork related to the sightings. He noted that while these planes accounted for some sightings, people might be upset if told that a "huge, silent, hovering object" was actually an airplane. Imbrogno had suspected that multiple sightings involved two separate objects, and the planes confirmed this for some cases.

Despite identifying the planes, the article highlights that this explanation did not account for all reported phenomena, such as a "massive boomerang" that some people said had hovered above treetops, emitting a low, humming noise. The planes, while odd-looking, were not as imposing as some witness descriptions and did emit engine noise.

After observing the planes, Walzer and Imbrogno headed to Stormville Airport, where they witnessed a plane land and observed several people on the runway. The behavior of these individuals was described as odd and defensive. They also saw parachutists land and another plane land, though the pilot did not emerge. The incident concluded with the floodlights at the airport going out, people scattering to their cars, and a plane taking off rapidly.

Imbrogno theorized that the tight formation of the planes might be part of a government cover-up of a more secret craft, or that the observed phenomena were unrelated to the UFO sightings. He expressed a desire to believe that the planes were what everyone saw, but acknowledged that the "massive, hovering boomerang" remained unexplained. Imbrogno stated his intention to focus on witnesses who got very close to this other object. He also noted that this particular UFO had not been seen since April and that continuing sightings of such an object are unusual.

Article: UFO sightings reported in Maple Valley

By Cathy Stone, Staff Reporter

This article, from the Kent, Wash. News Journal dated June 23, 1983, focuses on UFO activity in the Maple Valley area. Dale Goudie, director of Puget Sound Aerial Phenomena Research (PSAPR), states that reports of unidentified flying objects from this region indicate fairly constant activity.

Goudie claims that the activity is continuous, not just occasional, and that only about 5 percent of actual sightings are reported. PSAPR has been using radar equipment and mobile units, as well as optical and ultraviolet observations, to study these phenomena. Results of their research are expected within three months.

The article details two specific sightings in Tukwila, Washington, in April. The first, on April 24, involved a witness seeing an object with neon-like qualities moving from the north. The second sighting, three days later, described an object that zoomed past the witness, traveled over power lines, and sped away, matching the description of the earlier report.

PSAPR has also received reports of triangular objects over Puget Sound, seen singly or in formations of up to four. One incident on May 9 involved a couple observing two triangular objects, followed by three more, which then executed a 90-degree turn north. Goudie finds repeated sightings over several days unusual, as it makes it difficult to attribute them to natural phenomena.

Article: AMERICA'S PRESIDENTS have conducted clandestine meetings with aliens from outer space since at least the 1940s.

By Diane Amery

This article, published in The Herald Statesman, Yonkers, N.Y., on July 17, 1983, and also referencing a July 12, 1983 GLOBE article, discusses alleged secret meetings between US presidents and extraterrestrials. Author Charles Berlitz, known for 'The Bermuda Triangle,' claims that information about these meetings is kept in secret files and sealed laboratories.

Berlitz asserts that these elaborate UFO meetings began around July 2, 1947, following a UFO crash near Roswell, New Mexico. He suggests that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt might have had earlier encounters during his administration when man first cracked the atom.

According to Berlitz, the Roswell crash was kept secret for two main reasons: the military advantage gained from studying the alien craft's aerodynamics and interplanetary travel capabilities, and to prevent mass panic if the public became aware of alien visitors. Berlitz claims that President Dwight D. Eisenhower viewed the bodies of humanoids recovered from the crash at Edwards Air Force Base in California, having eluded press coverage by claiming a dental visit.

Berlitz interviewed over 100 people involved in the Roswell incident and traced the routing of the bodies to scientific laboratories. He notes that the initial Army press release about the crash was retracted and revised to call the craft a downed weather balloon. Barney Barnett, a civil engineer at the time, described the crashed vehicle as a disc-shaped object about 25-30 feet across, with humanoids inside having round heads and small eyes, with heads disproportionately large.

It is believed that wreckage from UFO crashes is stored at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, in a room known as the "Blue Room." Access to this room is restricted to presidents and a select group of UFO investigators. Berlitz mentions that Senator Barry Goldwater was denied access to the Blue Room when he ran for president.

Berlitz argues that this secrecy indicates important proof about extraterrestrial beings is being hidden from the public. He recounts that when Jimmy Carter was running for president, he promised to release all government UFO data, but after taking office, he was briefed on UFOs and stated that reopening investigations was not warranted, despite his personal belief in UFOs and a reported encounter with an alien spacecraft.

Berlitz points out that American security agencies view UFO investigations as unsolved cases and are reluctant to release information. The article concludes by stating that all presidents since World War II have received thorough briefings on UFOs, and many have allegedly met with these space travelers.

Article: Tentacles from UFO try to capture girls on horseback

This article, from GLOBE dated July 12, 1983, reports on an incident in Kvilla, Sweden, involving three young women on horseback: Pia Andersson (17), Anna-Karen Lindahl (11), and Carina Sjostrom (14).

The girls were exercising their horses when they experienced a strange encounter. Sjostrom described an unusually bright evening and noted that the horses seemed uneasy, sensing a "presence." As they galloped across a field, a flying saucer suddenly appeared and hovered about 20 feet overhead. The horses became wild, and the girls were terrified.

Lindahl described the saucer as shimmering and about the size of a large car. It made an initial "whining noise" upon appearing, but then hovered silently. Andersson added that the craft had lights in myriad colors on its edge and appeared to be burning in the center. It was pulsing with colors, first bright red, then pink. From the underside of the saucer, tentacles several feet long dangled, which Andersson described as having "eyes" that peered through them, causing a sensation of being "on needles and pins."

The encounter lasted about six minutes, during which the girls were paralyzed with fright. Their electronic watches stopped during this period. The Swedish Defense Department stated that the spaceship mysteriously escaped radar detection. Investigators are looking into the case, and it is being investigated by the Swedish Air Force.

Anita Sjostrand, who manages the stable where the girls keep their horses, spoke with them immediately after the incident. She described the girls as racing in "like all hell had broken loose" and it took her an hour to get them coherent enough to recount their experience. Sjostrand found the story "weird and fascinating" but did not doubt the girls' account.

Cover Image Description

The cover of The Reporter Dispatch features a large, bold headline: "Planes behind part of UFO sightings." Below this, the byline "By E.B. Walzer, Staff Writer" and the date "JULY 15 1983" are visible. The background is a photograph of a night sky with lights that could be interpreted as aircraft or UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the investigation into their causes, and the potential for government cover-ups or hidden truths. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting different theories and witness accounts without definitively concluding on the nature of all phenomena. The articles explore both mundane explanations (like aircraft) and more extraordinary possibilities (alien encounters, presidential secrecy). There is a clear interest in debunking simple explanations while acknowledging the complexity and mystery surrounding many UFO reports. The inclusion of alleged presidential meetings with aliens and a bizarre encounter in Sweden suggests a willingness to explore sensational and unusual aspects of the UFO phenomenon.