APCIC - Vol 09 No 01 - 1984

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO NEWS, published by the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center (A.P.I.C.) in Cleveland, Ohio, is Volume 9, No. 1, dated January 1984. The cover features a prominent illustration of a flying saucer and the bold title 'UFO NEWS'. The publication is described as a 'Clipping Service' and states 'Direct Reproduction Prohibited'.

Editorial Staff and Contributors

The editorial team includes Harry R. Cohen as editor and S. Mac Williams as assistant editor. Ron Smotek handles photo analysis, and Richard Smotek is responsible for 'supplement' research. The magazine also lists a network of 'Foreign Correspondents' from various countries, including G. Roncoroni (Argentina), Jeff Bell and George Hume (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).

Featured Articles and Reports

UFO Sightings in the UK

Several articles detail UFO sightings in the United Kingdom:

• Mitcham, Surrey (October 21, 1982): A letter from Mrs. V. Lyon describes seeing two lights in the sky on a Friday evening between 7:50 and 8:05 pm, swaying from left to right and coming from the direction of London. She connected this to a report in the 'News of the World' about other people seeing a phenomenon.
• Worcester (October 26, 1983): Residents in Blackpole, Worcester, reported seeing a strange object flying low overhead around 9 p.m. Mrs. Susan Brennan described it making a noise like an aeroplane but louder and travelling faster. A sketch by the Brennans showed a triangle-shaped craft with a bit taken out of its rear end. An Edgbas-ton Observatory spokesman suggested it might have been Jupiter.
• Grimsby Evening Telegraph (November 7, 1983): A report titled 'Was this a visit from outer space?' details an incident near Grimley, Worcestershire, where Jan Bridges and Lorraine Page saw a bright light 'like a brilliant streetlamp' that seemed to come towards them. The object made no noise and disappeared after a minute. The observatory suggested Jupiter as a possibility, but noted the object's movement was unexplained.
• Hereford Evening News (November 1, 1983): Under the headline 'County may be on route to the stars', it's reported that BUFORA, the British UFO Research Association, is receiving an increasing number of UFO reports from Lincolnshire. Three women and a schoolgirl reported seeing a strange saucer-shaped object near Rippingale, described as round with flickering lights and a humming noise. Another sighting of bright lights was reported by Mrs. Benjamin Franklin near Digby.
• Aldershot News, Hants (November 4, 1983): This article focuses on an international expert, Timothy Good, who is to research claims by an Aldershot pensioner, Mr. Alfred Burtoo, of a close encounter. Mr. Burtoo claims he spoke to beings from outer space and boarded their flying saucer near the Basingstoke Canal. Local UFO experts, including Mr. Omar Fowler of the Surrey Investigation Group, consider his story sensational.

UFO Incidents in France

• La Planche, France (February 15, 1950): An account details events in a remote French village where a high-pitched hum was heard, followed by an 'intense pressure' felt by a man. Later, a metal saucer-shaped object was seen to rise from the ground and fly away. An elderly railway worker, Pierre Pittou, described seeing the object near his garden fence and feeling a violent pain before being unable to move. The incident left a deep depression in the ground. The article also mentions Madame Marie Ponte, a postmistress, who reported seeing a being with three eyes in a 'plastic goldfish bowl'. A priest also reported being chased by a 'small man with a plastic bag on his head'. Professor Armand Herete of the French Academy reportedly found that a line connecting the alleged sightings pointed directly to the planet Jupiter.

UFO Sightings in Pennsylvania, USA

• Altoona Mirror (November 21, 1983): Titled ''Unexplained' UFO sightings increase', this article by Marsha Heim reports on a growing number of unexplained sightings in Pennsylvania. Stan L. Gordon, director of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), notes that while sightings have dwindled nationwide since 1973, Pennsylvania is seeing an upswing. He mentions a report from October 15 where a woman's car was turned up on two wheels by a huge object. Gordon states that most people reporting sightings are honest and down-to-earth. He also notes that many sightings are misidentified as Venus or Jupiter. Specific incidents include:
• Latrobe (July 25): A 300-foot long object with two rows of square windows and sliding doors was seen hovering over trees.
• Jeannette: An object resembling a silver metallic 'double-decker layer cake' was seen wobbling up and down.
• Derry: An object with a high-pitched sound hung motionless over the road.
• Johnstown (September 4): An elongated, large, grey-metalic object hovered over a power plant.
• Butler County (September 12): An object hovered over a man's head.
• Indiana (September 25): A 400-foot-by-30-foot vertical 'hotdog' was spotted.
• Page 8: Continues the discussion on UFO sightings and mentions that the Bellwood woman's report of her car being affected is rare. Gordon points out that the last time a car was moved in Pennsylvania was exactly 10 years prior. He is awaiting a physician's report on the physical effects.
• Page 9: Stan Gordon is shown using equipment to monitor communications for UFO sightings. He prefers to believe in 'an other reality' or another dimension rather than solely aliens from other planets, suggesting 'more than one origin' and that beings can be both physical and non-physical. He provides a UFO hotline number (412-838-7768) and address for reporting incidents.

Other Phenomena and Research

• Bigfoot: The magazine notes that evidence for Bigfoot is considered more substantial than for UFOs, with plaster casts of alleged footprints shown. Gordon suggests a possible link between Bigfoot sightings and UFO reports occurring in the same areas.
• Out-of-place Animals: A newer phenomenon of lions, monkeys, and black panthers being seen in Pennsylvania is mentioned, with experienced hunters providing signed statements.
• Gary Rowe and the National UFO Laboratory: Gary Rowe, founder of the National UFO Laboratory, is featured on page 6. He has been amassing information for over 25 years and gives weekly lectures. He receives about 200 newspaper reports of UFO sightings monthly and believes the actual number is much higher. His organization uses sophisticated equipment and contracts out for more advanced needs. Rowe emphasizes a serious investigative approach, stating that 70% of cases investigated are explained as natural phenomena. However, he is convinced of extra-terrestrial beings based on evidence from serious authorities. He mentions the first photograph of a UFO taken by astronomer M. Bonila in the late 1800s.
• Huntington, WV Herald Dispatch (November 24, 1983): An article by Bruce B. Fisher titled 'Little Green Men' recounts a personal sighting of two strange orange streaks of light in the sky. Initially uncertain, he involved his wife as an eyewitness and took photographs. He later theorizes these might have been reflections in the upper atmosphere from industrial plants across the Ohio River. He concludes that even eyewitness accounts and photographic proof aren't always enough to prevent skepticism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently presents reports of unexplained aerial phenomena from various locations, emphasizing witness testimonies and the efforts of researchers and organizations dedicated to investigating these events. There is a clear stance of open-mindedness towards the possibility of extraterrestrial or other dimensional origins for these phenomena, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation and the possibility of natural explanations. The inclusion of related topics like Bigfoot and out-of-place animals suggests a broader interest in anomalous occurrences. The publication aims to document and disseminate information on UFO sightings and related mysteries, encouraging readers to report their own experiences.

This issue of the CONROE, TX COURIER, dated October 30, 1983, features a prominent cover story detailing a planned $20 million lawsuit by UFO victims alleging illness and disturbances following a sighting. The headline, "UFO victims plan to file $20 million suit: Illness, disturbances followed in wake of sighting; answers sought," sets the tone for the issue's focus on UFO phenomena and potential government cover-ups.

Main Article: UFO Victims Plan $20 Million Suit

The lead article, by Cathy Gordon, reports on the intentions of Vickie Landrum, her grandson Colby, and their friend Betty Cash to sue the federal government. They claim that a strange, flame-belching, diamond-shaped object, accompanied by 23 twin-rotary military helicopters, encountered on a lonely stretch of FM 1485 near New Caney on December 29, 1980, is responsible for their persistent health problems. These issues include month-long bouts with nausea and diarrhea, burns, eye problems, hair loss, and recurring blisters, which a radiation specialist suggests point to radiation sickness.

Vickie Landrum, aged 60, has developed cataracts. Colby, now 9, has experienced anorexia, bedwetting, nightmares, and lassitude, along with some sight difficulties. Betty Cash, who observed the object for the longest duration, was the most seriously afflicted, undergoing a mastectomy for breast cancer. Therapists reportedly forewent post-operative radiation treatment due to her existing high levels of radiation exposure.

Their attorney, Peter Gersten, is preparing to file a $20 million personal injury civil lawsuit in U.S. District Court. He aims to compel the military to reveal its role or knowledge of the incident and to seek compensation for the victims' medical costs. Gersten expresses concern that the case might be dismissed before he can petition the government for information.

Mrs. Landrum believes the object was part of a government-sponsored operation and expresses frustration with the government's perceived lack of protection and assistance. She states her life has been turned upside down by the experience.

Supporting Accounts and Investigations

Other Witnesses to Helicopters

Dayton police officer L.L. Walker reported seeing helicopters flying "low to the ground in triangles of three" in the same area, two to three hours after the main sighting. An oil company executive from Crosby also reported seeing "several" military-type helicopters flying in the area on the same night.

Angie Stanley, a postal clerk, described seeing a bright light in the sky that looked like an oval-shaped thing with headlights. Jerry McDonald, an oil field roughneck, witnessed a triangular or diamond-shaped object with white and blue fire shooting out the back, and bright lights.

Official Investigations

Sarran, whose job was to ascertain if army helicopters were involved, conducted extensive research and concluded that no Army helicopters were in the area. He also checked with Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, finding no records of helicopters being summoned, despite a prison break occurring that night.

John Schussler, the chief UFO investigator on the case and a NASA project manager, stated that the investigation has reached a stalemate because, although the choppers were real and military, no one will admit to it. He believes the witnesses are credible.

Legal and Skeptical Perspectives

William Moore, an independent UFO researcher, shares Gersten's pessimism, citing a Department of Defense statute that prevents classified material from being introduced as evidence in a civil trial, thus hindering the government's disclosure of any top-secret project.

Russ Meyer, a TDH investigator, acknowledged that the women likely saw something but was uncertain about radiation exposure. Mrs. Landrum, however, is certain of her experience and emphasizes that it is not about "little green men" but about the government's responsibility to protect its citizens.

Physical Evidence and Site Investigation

Moore investigated the site and claimed to have found dead vegetation and scorched tree trunks, suggesting unusual activity. He also noted the presence of colored ribbons on tree branches. However, his findings differed from those of the Texas Department of Health's Bureau of Radiation Control, leading him to believe they were examining slightly different areas.

UFO Expert Charges: Govt is Hiding Alien Spaceship

This article features Dr. Standon Friedman, a nuclear physicist and UFOlogist, who claims a high-level conspiracy exists in the U.S. to conceal the truth about extraterrestrial spaceship visits. Friedman asserts that UFO sightings are consistent across at least 150 countries and that the U.S. government's refusal to announce its discoveries is inconceivable. He believes the government possesses files proving the truth about UFOs but refuses to release them. Friedman also claims to have accessed secret files belonging to J. Edgar Hoover detailing UFO landings and a spectacular crash in New Mexico in 1947, the information for which was never released.

Friedman suggests the government is hiding UFOs to be the first to imitate advanced technology and to avoid political ramifications. He also mentions the Roswell incident of July 2, 1947, where an initial report of a UFO crash was later changed to a weather balloon.

Other UFO Sightings and Reports

Several other smaller reports detail various UFO sightings:

• Aldershot News, Hants. (Oct 28, 1983): Reports a spate of UFO sightings in the Aldershot area, with Mr. Omar Fowler of the Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena suggesting it could signal more "visits." Specific sightings include Mr. Alfred Burtoo boarding a flying saucer, Mr. and Mrs. Peter New seeing a craft, and Mrs. Carolyn Coleman observing a bright light that moved rapidly.
• Northumberland Gazette, Alnwick (Oct 29, 1983): A Seashouses family reported seeing a white light near Alnwick Castle that moved closer and passed silently overhead. The article also references a letter from an Oxford man theorizing that "visitors" come in cycles.
• Cleyedon Mercury (Oct 28, 1983): Features two letters from UFO spotters. Mrs. Doris Galinaitis saw a brightly-lit object near Bristol Airport and Weston. Mrs. M. Green saw a bright red, round object. Mrs. Eileen Mills saw an extremely bright object skimming the Mendips. Matthew Shaw, aged 9, reported seeing a large, oval-shaped, orange-colored object.
• Evening Post, Leeds (Oct 31, 1983): Graham Birdsall, Chairman of the Yorkshire UFO Society, defends UFO witnesses against claims of being "superstitious" and "unreliable." He emphasizes that sightings are real and warrant scientific research, and criticizes the government's "continuing cover-up."
• News World, London (Nov 6, 1983): "A Bug-Eyed Alien Meets Air Chief" details claims by ex-U.S. airman Art Wallace, who, under hypnosis, described aliens and a UFO landing near RAF Woodbridge in December 1980. He claims the U.S. Air Force may have helped repair the craft and that he received threats after revealing his story. Lt-Colonel Charles Halt admits there is "one hell of a lot more" to come out regarding the incident.
• West Lancashire Evening Gazette, Blackpool (Nov 1 & 4, 1983): Reports on "Baffling bright lights" seen over the River Ribble. Richard Iddon saw two bright, unflickering lights. Linda Pugh also reported seeing a UFO with lights on top and underneath.
• Little Falls, N.Y. Evening Times (Nov 2, 1983): Reports a UFO sighting in the Finks Basin area, with residents describing red lights and bright white lights. Calls to Griffiss Air Force Base reportedly indicated something appeared on radar.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are UFO sightings, alleged government cover-ups, and the physical and psychological toll these experiences can take on individuals. There is a strong emphasis on witness testimony and the pursuit of answers through legal means and public disclosure. The editorial stance appears to be one of validating the experiences of UFO witnesses and advocating for transparency and accountability from government and military authorities. The articles collectively highlight a growing public interest and concern regarding UFO phenomena and the potential implications for national security and individual well-being.

This issue of the Examiner, dated November 29, 1983, with a cover date of November 11, 1983, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, alien encounters, ancient mysteries, and the potential connection to psychic abilities and Bigfoot.

Close Encounter

Doug Freeland recounts a personal UFO sighting in Newberry, SC, on a Tuesday night. He describes an 'Unearthly Green and Red Flash of Light' that appeared stationary, flashed erratically, and moved distances away. Initially, he and the editor were skeptical, but the phenomenon reappeared. Police officer Phil Bouknight was called, and the City of Newberry's Utility Department later attributed the UGRFL (Unearthly Green and Red Flash of Light) to a short in an electrical wire hot tap, with the red light being the spark and the green light the result of burning copper.

UFO aliens to come to Earth in near future

This article by Cliff Linecker discusses the claims of Charles Hickson, one of two men allegedly abducted by extraterrestrials in Pascagoula, Mississippi, on October 11, 1973. Hickson, now 55, believes aliens will intervene to prevent mankind's destruction. He claims to be one of 12 chosen as a liaison between aliens and humans, receiving messages mentally. Hickson states the ETs are convinced they must reveal themselves to change Earth's self-destructive course, predicting a release of energy that will turn minds away from war. He reports having had at least three more physical encounters since the initial incident.

Justice for humanoids!

This piece reports on allegations by Larry W. Bryant of the Citizens Against UFO Secrecy group, who claims the U.S. government is covering up evidence of UFOs visiting Earth, including 'disc-shaped objects and small-statured, ugly beings - or humanoids.' Bryant sought a federal court order to produce these extraterrestrials, but the case was dismissed due to lack of jurisdiction.

UFOs at Stonehenge

Written by Lewis Clifton, this article suggests that Stonehenge, a mysterious monument erected about 1,800 years before Christ, has become a giant navigational beacon for UFOs. Dr. Guido Pontarelli, a historian, believes extraterrestrials were involved in its construction and that the massive structures are used today to guide 'visitors from the stars.' This intergalactic communication is thought to involve druids, followers of a pre-Christian religion. The article notes that an incredible number of UFO sightings occur over the surrounding Salsbury Plain, leading researchers to suspect an extraterrestrial origin.

...and in Missouri, too

This section reports on the discovery of an ancient solar observatory in Clay County, Missouri, which scientists believe may have been a landing site for ancient astronauts. Dubbed 'Woodhenge' due to its wooden pole arrangement similar to Stonehenge, the observatory dates back to the Dark Ages. The scientists constructed an exact copy nearby before the original site was flooded.

If it's not a moose then it's UFOs

Mike Connery writes about a sighting of two unidentified flying objects (UFOs) over Lake Champlain in Ticonderoga, NY. Several residents reported seeing lights hovering in the eastern horizon, with one light abruptly joined by a second before they disappeared. The sighting lasted about 5 minutes. Connery also notes other unusual events in the area, including a murder, an earthquake, and a moose sighting.

Seen Bigfoot, UFOs? Maybe you're psychic

This article by Harold Lewis explores the claim that sightings of UFOs and Bigfoot are linked to individuals with psychic powers. Stan Gordon, founder of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU), states that many people who experience close encounters have a history of psychic ability, or develop it afterward. Gordon's organization, PASU, investigates such phenomena with a staff of doctors, scientists, and technicians. The article mentions that Fayette County, PA, is a hotbed of such occurrences and recounts a classic UFO case from October 1973 in Fayette County where residents saw a light descend and encountered two tall, hairy creatures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, with a strong focus on UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters. The articles present various perspectives, from personal sightings and alleged abductions to ancient mysteries and potential government cover-ups. There's a consistent undercurrent suggesting that conventional explanations are insufficient and that a broader, more extraordinary reality is at play. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting accounts and theories without outright dismissal, even when official explanations are offered (as in the Newberry case).