APCIC - Vol 10 No 07 - 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 10, No. 7
Date: July 1985
Publisher: A.P.C.I.C. (Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center)
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO News delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring reports on sightings, analysis of trends, and discussions on the scientific and cultural implications of unidentified aerial phenomena.

Key Articles and Reports

Massive UFO Sighting Over Devon, England

The cover story details a significant UFO sighting that occurred in Devon, England, on May 29, 1985. Multiple witnesses reported seeing a massive, brilliantly lit, cigar-shaped object that was approximately 1,000ft long. Amateur astronomer Ian Platt described it as "massive and brilliantly lit," moving back and forth in a straight line for about an hour before shooting off. Another witness, Mr. Peter Doyle, described the underside as being covered in lights. Local authorities, including RAF Chivenor and Exeter Airport, had no reports of the object. Astronomer James Hedley Robinson expressed skepticism, suggesting it was likely a "man-made gadget" related to the military, rather than extraterrestrial.

The Vanishing UFO: Sightings Less Prevalent as Excitement Dies Down

This multi-part article by Stacey Burling explores the perceived decline in UFO sightings and public interest since the mid-1970s. Mark Rodeghier, a researcher for the Center for UFO Studies, estimates that US reports have decreased by 50 to 75 percent since 1973. The article notes the closure of the Air Force's formal UFO investigation in 1969 and a general decrease in media coverage. It features interviews with members of the Denver UFO Society, including president Lorita Green, who discusses the challenges of maintaining interest and the frustration of slow periods. The article also touches upon theories for the decline, such as UFOs exploring other regions or becoming more sophisticated in their avoidance of human detection. Skeptics like Philip J. Klass are mentioned, who attribute the phenomenon to prosaic explanations. The article also references the impact of science fiction, like "War of the Worlds" and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," on public perception.

UFOs and the Decline in Reports

David M. Jacobs, a history professor, argues that the persistence and consistency of UFO reports make it difficult to dismiss the phenomenon entirely. The article also touches upon the wave of cattle mutilations in the Rocky Mountain and Plains states from 1975-1981, noting a decrease in cases. A personal account from Bill Jackson describes seeing a large, silent object with numerous lights. Professor Harley Rutlege, who has studied UFOs since 1973, notes that while skepticism exists, the sheer volume of past sightings made it hard to disbelieve. The article suggests that the public may have become "blase" about UFOs, requiring more spectacular events to generate excitement. The difficulty in obtaining funding for UFO research is also highlighted, with suggestions for a "mini-NASA" for UFO studies.

The Juarez Flying Object Incident

An article from the El Paso Herald-Post reports on a flying object seen over Juarez, Mexico, on May 30, 1985. Juarez state judicial police claimed an unidentified flying object passed over the city, witnessed by hundreds, including police officers. Commander Rodolfo Avalos Saenz described it as "something very brilliant." The object was reportedly checkered with brilliant lights and a red light on top. The control tower at El Paso International Airport was not in operation at the time, and El Paso police received no reports.

The Cosmos Explained: Life's Mysteries in One Easy Lesson

This piece by I.L. Wheaton offers a satirical take on a UFO seminar presented by Michael and Aurora El-Legion. The seminar promised an "intergalactic tour," discussions on the "hollow earth," and information on mass landings. The author attends a $10 introductory lecture, noting the presence of conspiracy theory books and the attendees' attire. The El-Legions are described as extraterrestrial souls volunteering to be born as humans to help humanity, though their task is presented as ultimately futile, with a promise of evacuation for "nice people" before Earth is destroyed.

Soviet Space Junk Lights Up the Sky

This report details a spectacular display of lights seen across the US on May 29, 1985, which officials identified as debris from a Soviet space satellite re-entering the atmosphere. Witnesses described red tails and long, big lights. The debris was from the Cosmos 1530 satellite. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) tracks thousands of man-made objects in orbit, with many falling back to Earth each year. The article mentions past incidents, including the Skylab space station debris and a Soviet nuclear-powered satellite incident in 1978.

UFO Sightings: Just Give Me the Facts

Susan Bailey interviews Peter Geremia, the New Hampshire state director for MUFON. Geremia emphasizes presenting only facts and maintaining an "open-minded skeptic" stance. He describes how people often fear ridicule when reporting sightings. The article outlines MUFON's classification system for UFO encounters, including CE-1 (unexplained aerial sighting), CE-2 (interaction with a light that affects a vehicle), and CE-3 (interaction with an entity). Geremia notes that many sightings turn out to be conventional aircraft, such as the C5 military transport plane. He recounts a case from Oct. 15, 1984, in Keene, N.H., where Sgt. John Zeller reported a hovering, silent object with pulsating lights, which he described as "unconventional."

Was It Really a UFO?

This report from the Potters Bar Press features Gaetano Avogadri, a businessman who claims to have seen a strange, silent object covered in lights over his house. Investigations with local police and flying clubs yielded no rational explanation, with the object not matching any known aircraft. The article concludes that the case remains a mystery.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent nature of UFO sightings despite a perceived decline in public interest and media coverage. There's a clear emphasis on factual reporting, as exemplified by MUFON's approach and the "Just give me the facts" mantra. The magazine presents a spectrum of views, from believers and researchers seeking explanations to skeptics who attribute sightings to prosaic causes or psychological factors. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the phenomenon, acknowledging the unexplained aspects while also considering conventional explanations and the challenges of definitive proof. The issue highlights the ongoing mystery surrounding UFOs and the public's enduring fascination with the unknown, even as the excitement surrounding the topic seems to have waned from its peak periods.

This issue of the EXAMINER, dated July 2, 1985, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena, with the cover headline proclaiming 'UFO aliens are killing livestock.' The publication presents a mix of alleged encounters, expert opinions, and skeptical viewpoints, covering incidents from around the globe.

Gruesome Livestock Slaughter Attributed to UFO Aliens

The lead story details a new wave of livestock slaughter, with Dr. Jasper MacIntyre, a veterinary pathologist who has studied the phenomenon for 15 years, attributing the killings to UFO aliens conducting research. The most recent episode involved 21 lambs found dead in Wales, each with a puncture wound causing fatal internal injuries. MacIntyre notes that the lack of other marks on the bodies and the consistent nature of the wound suggest a high level of sophistication. He dismisses satanic cults as the cause, pointing instead to extraterrestrials. While previous incidents often involved UFO sightings, the Welsh case reportedly did not, which MacIntyre finds unusual, suggesting aliens might be keeping a low profile. The article notes that similar killings have been reported in Ohio, Washington, and Texas, with the implication that humans are also defenseless.

Deputy Spots UFO in Texas

A separate report details a sighting by a Sheriff's Deputy in Rockport, Texas, who, along with a dozen witnesses, observed a UFO for three hours. The object was described as bright white with red rings and did not appear on radar. The deputy, Joe Veases, stated it couldn't be Venus due to its location. Another witness reported her car stalling when the object was visible and restarting after it disappeared.

UFO Sightings: Fad or Faithful Belief?

This article, dated June 16, 1985, from the DENVER POST, discusses the decline in UFO sightings reported in the United States since a peak 12 years prior. Mark Rodeghier of the Center for UFO Studies notes a 50-75% decrease since 1973. The Air Force closed its formal investigation in 1969. Despite the decline, a dedicated group of believers, like the 27-year-old Denver UFO Society, continues to meet. The article features Lorita Green, who claims to have seen a UFO in 1963 and moved to a rural area based on advice from 'contactees.' Some researchers suggest sightings have declined because spacecraft are exploring Soviet bloc countries or that aliens are intentionally avoiding detection. J. Allen Hynek, a former UFO debunker and now an authority, estimates 80,000 reports, with about 1,000 meriting investigation. David M. Jacobs, author of 'The UFO Controversy in America,' argues that the long history and reliable witnesses make it difficult to dismiss the phenomenon. However, Philip J. Klass, a debunker, believes most reports have become outlandish and that more believable stories are no longer considered interesting, attributing the myth's survival to its timeless appeal.

UFO Sighted by Hundreds in Australia

An Associated Press report from SYDNEY, Australia, dated June 19, 1985, describes hundreds of early risers reporting sightings of a UFO emitting a 'mysterious bright light' over Sydney. Witnesses described a large, bright round object. The report also mentions blinding lights seen the previous week that appeared to explode. The Meteorology Bureau suggested these might have been meteor showers.

Close Encounter for UFO Believers

This article from the SAN BERNARDINO SUN, dated June 10, 1985, features Tuella, an author and lecturer who claims to communicate with extraterrestrials, specifically Commander Ashtar of the Intergalactic Space Confederation. Tuella asserts that 'evil aliens' in the form of 'Men in Black' are infiltrating Earth for a takeover. She believes that governments and big business are covering up the truth about UFOs, citing alleged knowledge by Presidents Ford and Carter, and even President Reagan's interaction with an ET. Tuella's message, described as a modern American theology synthesizing science, UFO theory, and New Age concepts, suggests that these 'friendly visitors' will use 'levitation beams' to rescue those ready in case of disaster. She claims her books, 'Project: World Evacuation' and 'Ashtar: A Tribute,' have sold thousands of copies. Tuella expresses frustration with how UFO believers are treated, calling it a 'conspiracy of silence.' She believes a powerful group decided in the late 1940s to keep the world in the dark to exploit advanced ET technology. She identifies military leaders, the FBI, CIA, and the Trilateral Commission as part of this conspiracy. Tuella predicts an impending 'Armageddon' from which only the friendly visitors can save humanity, and that the Intergalactic Space Confederation is preparing to expose the conspiracy, leading to a 'spiritual, cosmic Watergate.'

Woman Recounts Story of Her UFO Abduction

An article from the MIAMI HERALD, dated June 21, 1985, details Lydia Stalnaker's account of being abducted by aliens 11 years prior. She claims to have been examined by frail, big-headed aliens and given 'seven powers of God.' Stalnaker, who charges $10 for her talks and $30 for healing seminars, has been endorsed by the Aerial Phenomenon Research Organization (APRO) in Arizona. However, APRO officials, including Coral Lorenzen, state that while they believe Stalnaker believes her story, her claims are exaggerated and not endorsed by them.

Flying Saucer: A Passing Fad?

This article from the WESTERN EVENING HERALD, dated June 22, 1985, references Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting near Mount Rainier, Washington, which coined the term 'flying saucers.' It notes that while most governments dismiss UFO reports, declassified files reveal that the FBI, CIA, and American forces have monitored UFO activity. A spokesman for the UFO Research Organisation suggests considerable evidence supports the theory of extraterrestrial spacecraft, but lacks proof. The article also mentions the Russian government's dismissive stance on UFOs.

New Riddle of Field Circles

This section reports on mysterious crop circles appearing in Wiltshire, England, reviving speculation about UFOs, whirlwinds, or helicopters. Local residents discovered rings in a cornfield, with no apparent explanation. A local meteorologist suggests whirlwinds as a possible cause.

Hundreds Report Strange Light Streaking Across Sky

Published in the SARASOTA HERALD-TRIBUNE on June 25, 1985, this article describes hundreds of Florida residents reporting a strange nighttime phenomenon on Monday. Initially described as a 'ball of fire' or UFO, it was later identified by FAA officials as a laser light demonstration for a commercial development's grand opening in Tampa. However, some witnesses, like Trey Miller, insisted it was a craft, describing it as cigar-shaped, silver, and with lights, and too large and steady to be a laser show.

Good Place for UFOs

Eric Morris, who claims to have sighted a UFO in Winsford, England, after 15 years as a naval nurse, hopes to form a new UFO research group in Cheshire. He believes the North West of England is a good place for sightings, noting that UFOs are mainly sighted in thinly populated areas.

'I know what I saw, and they're real'

This article from the LORAIN JOURNAL, dated June 13, 1985, features Arthur Schindler, a retiree from Amherst, Ohio, who claims to have seen UFOs on clear nights for months. He describes a 'huge spacecraft' emanating blue and white spears of light, shaped like a 'huge dish with two sets of yellow lights around the rim,' and topped with something like a 'castle' or 'pyramid.' He uses a small chalkboard to diagram the object. Schindler believes the government is covering up UFO existence, as objects are not picked up on radar. Steve Horosz, another Amherst resident, corroborates seeing a hovering, bright object that disappeared. Sherman Larsen, co-founder of the Center for UFO Studies, has not received similar reports from northern Ohio but acknowledges the possibility of unknown phenomena.

Lights in the Skies are Stars, Not UFOs

This article from the LEADER-POST, May 15, 1985, discusses sightings near Calgary, Canada. Police Staff Sgt. Tom Barrow and other officers observed twinkling lights described as 'weird, blinking stars' or 'oblong discs.' Barrow, however, insists they were stars. Gene Milone, a physics professor and astronomer, agrees, suggesting the lights were likely planets Venus or Jupiter, or the star Sirius, with atmospheric conditions causing them to appear to twinkle. He states that people often see things they don't understand. A separate report from the same date, 'UFOs near Calgary?', quotes Russ Sampson, a community astronomer, who suggests that bright objects in a starless sky can create optical illusions, and atmospheric effects can make them flicker and change colors.

UFO aliens are already living among us

This article from page 10 discusses the theory that 'evil aliens' in the form of 'Men in Black' (MIB) are infiltrating Earth to prepare for a takeover. Electronics expert Oscar Magocsi claims to have traveled through galaxies foiling alien plans and is a representative of the 'Interdimensional Federation of Free Worlds.' He explains that the MIB, described as humanoid with dark business suits and olive skin, penetrate all levels of life, while the 'Illuminati' manipulate politicians and financiers. Researcher Anthony Sutton agrees that a secret society of scheming aliens has gained control of various institutions. Jerome Eden suggests that extraterrestrials use propaganda to subvert mankind. Magocsi adds that the Federation has a fleet of spaceships ready to evacuate Earth if needed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the alleged reality of UFOs and alien presence, the potential for alien interference or invasion, and the idea of a government cover-up. The editorial stance appears to lean towards presenting these claims as credible, particularly in the lead story and the articles detailing specific encounters and expert opinions from believers. While some articles include skeptical viewpoints or alternative explanations (e.g., planets, laser shows, whirlwinds), the overall tone gives significant weight to the more sensational claims of alien activity and conspiracies. The issue highlights a fascination with the unknown and a distrust of official explanations regarding unexplained aerial phenomena.

This issue of the TRI-VALLEY HERALD, dated May 21, 1985, focuses on the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), featuring local researcher Kal Korff and exploring various aspects of the phenomenon, including skepticism, government involvement, and specific sighting reports.

Kal Korff: A Dedicated Researcher

The main article introduces Kal Korff, a 23-year-old from Fremont, California, who has dedicated 10 years to studying UFOs. Korff, who founded the SpectraGraphics printing company, possesses the third-largest known private collection of UFO photographs and films, numbering around 4,500. He clarifies that UFOs are not exclusively flying saucers and states that he is not a 'true believer,' preferring to remain on the fence until all other explanations are ruled out. He estimates that 90 to 95 percent of the UFO photographs he examines are hoaxes, but the remaining 5 percent sustain his interest. Korff uses computer image enhancement to analyze photographs, a process that skeptics question. He has been criticized as a 'flying saucer fanatic' but presents himself as grounded and analytical.

Skeptical Analysis of UFO Evidence

Robert Sheaffer, a founder of the Bay Area Skeptics, offers counter-theories to some of Korff's evidence. Regarding a 1950 photograph from McMinnville, Oregon, Sheaffer suggests the shadows indicate it was taken in the morning, contradicting the witnesses' claim of it being after sunset. Korff, citing research by Dr. Bruce Maccabee, an optical physicist, argues that the shadows were cast by cumulus clouds, supporting the sunset claim. Sheaffer also points out discrepancies in the star map drawn by Betty Hill, who claimed to have been abducted by aliens, noting that Mrs. Hill has made increasingly outlandish claims over time.

The Roswell Incident and Government Secrecy

William L. Moore, a colleague of Korff's, is mentioned for co-authoring 'The Roswell Incident,' which alleges that the U.S. government recovered and covered up actual UFO wreckage. Moore claims to have interviewed over 90 people, including 30 involved firsthand, regarding the cover-up. Sheaffer counters that the government cannot keep such a significant secret, referencing the Watergate scandal and noting that many witnesses are now deceased.

UFOs and Nuclear Weapons

Robert Hastings, an independent researcher, argues that UFOs have been present for 40 years and that the U.S. government has kept evidence secret, partly due to concerns about public panic and the visitors' apparent interest in U.S. nuclear weapons and military installations. Hastings cites FBI memos from 1949 and 1950 detailing the recovery of three 'flying saucers' in New Mexico, each approximately 50 feet in diameter and occupied by three small, human-shaped beings. He believes these craft may have crashed in the Jemez Mountains. Sightings were also reported near Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Hanford Military Reservation. Hastings' information stems from documents released to W. Todd Zechel, a former NSA employee, and he believes the CIA has over 10,000 classified UFO files.

Notable Sightings and Incidents

The Betty and Barney Hill Abduction

This case, involving an alleged alien abduction in 1964, is discussed in relation to Betty Hill's star map. While Korff defends the possibility of its validity despite Mrs. Hill's later mental state, Sheaffer highlights inconsistencies.

The Roswell Incident

This alleged UFO crash and government cover-up in Roswell, New Mexico, is presented as significant evidence by Moore and Hastings.

New Mexico Sightings (1948-1949)

Hastings highlights a period of intense UFO activity in New Mexico, with over 150 sightings reported near key military and research sites.

Montana Air Traffic Incident (March 1967)

Hastings recounts an incident where unknown aircraft were observed at high speeds near missile silos in Montana, and he was removed from an air traffic control tower.

Kirtland Air Force Base Sighting (August 1980)

A circular craft was reported near a nuclear bunker at Kirtland AFB, which then rapidly ascended and departed.

Piedras Negras, Mexico Incident (August 11)

This report details a glowing, rumbling UFO observed over Piedras Negras, Mexico. Residents witnessed the object, and notably, two dogs belonging to Alejandro Parafuentes vanished the following day, leading Parafuentes to believe they were 'teleported.' Ignacio Norte, a neighbor, also witnessed the event and heard one of the dogs yelp before the UFO disappeared.

Worthing, England Field Ring

UFO expert Charles Walker suggests that mystery rings appearing in a wheat field at Tolmare Farm in Worthing, England, could be extraterrestrial in origin. He notes that five people reported strange lights in the area shortly before the rings appeared. Walker also mentions a similar incident in April 1975 involving a V-formation of lights, a disc-shaped object, a depression in the ground, and missing dogs. Farm manager Anthony Wicks attributes the rings to hoaxers, but Walker remains open to the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement.

Lincolnshire UFO Spotters Group

A group in Market Rasen, Lincolnshire, England, is charting UFO sightings across the county to find common factors. Their project was inspired by a sighting of an 'incredible yellow light' by two schoolboys in March 1979. They are seeking information from the public about UFOs and other unexplained phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the tension between belief and skepticism regarding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both the claims of researchers like Kal Korff and Robert Hastings, and the counterarguments of skeptics like Robert Sheaffer. The articles emphasize the role of government secrecy and the public's right to know. There is a recurring theme that unexplained aerial phenomena are real and warrant serious investigation, even if their origin remains unknown. The magazine highlights the challenges in proving UFOs due to hoaxes, misidentifications, and potential government suppression of information. The overall tone encourages critical thinking while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding UFOs.