APCIC - Vol 11 No 01 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 11, No. 1
Date: January 1986
Publisher: Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center
Country: USA
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Articles and Content

Cover Headline: UFO RETURN SPARKS NEW MYSTERY

The cover of this January 1986 issue of UFO NEWS features a prominent illustration of three stacked flying saucers. The main headline announces a 'UFO RETURN SPARKS NEW MYSTERY,' hinting at a significant event or series of sightings.

Page 3: 'UFO RETURN SPARKS NEW MYSTERY' - Report by Lynden Barber

This article, originating from the Ashbourne News Telegraph and Leicester Mercury, details investigations by the Leicester UFO Investigation Centre into strange aerial phenomena. Since early August, numerous sightings of a triangular-shaped object with unusual lights have been reported in the Leicestershire area. Notably, two police officers witnessed these peculiar lights on September 27. The center claims these recent sightings are similar to 67 reported in 1978 over western Leicestershire and Staffordshire. Investigations suggest the object could not be a civilian or known military aircraft. The center appeals for public assistance in identifying the phenomenon.

A separate report on the same page details a recurring sighting near Windley, UK. Mrs. Marian Thomson and her husband John have observed a UFO of uncertain size and situation appearing on the horizon for three consecutive years, typically around 9 p.m. The object emits brilliant white lights and moves at speeds too fast for conventional aircraft. Mrs. Thomson also mentioned that the object had been seen in the early morning hours in previous years, and that the family used to be hesitant to report it for fear of ridicule.

Page 4-5: 'They will come from outer space' - Mail on Sunday, London, Nov 24 1985

This feature delves into the beliefs of Lord Clancarty (William Francis Brinsley Le Poer Trench), the eighth Earl of Clancarty and chairman of the House of Lords UFO study group. Lord Clancarty asserts that Earth was colonized by extraterrestrials 65,000 years ago and that spaceships and cities exist within the Earth and on the Moon. He claims a conspiracy involving global leaders (including the US President, CIA, KGB, Ministry of Defence, Pope, and Steven Spielberg) is withholding this truth. Lord Clancarty believes that extraterrestrials are here among us and that humanity is descended from them, explaining the diversity of human races. He also suggests that a gradual education program, including Hollywood movies like 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and 'E.T.', is preparing humanity for this revelation. He anticipates a delegation from outer space may visit the House of Lords.

Lord Clancarty also discusses the general disbelief surrounding UFOs, stating that the government keeps the subject quiet to avoid frightening the public. He mentions that his wife, Lady Clancarty, has also recently seen a UFO, describing it as 'fairly big' and 'saucer-shaped.' He laments the difficulty in describing such objects.

Page 5: 'UFO armada planning to invade Earth' - By Peter Bemidji

This article reports on a massive fleet of UFOs sighted over northern Italy, near Pavia, described as an 'enormous fleet' that lit up the night sky. Experts, including General Giuseppe Sabatini, suggest this could be the vanguard of an alien invasion. The report highlights the Italian Ministry of Defense's secrecy regarding nearly 400 well-documented UFO sightings by air force officers over four years, with senior officers fearing professional repercussions for reporting such events. Dr. Allen Hynek of the Center for UFO Studies notes a dramatic increase in the 'strangeness index' of UFO encounters. The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) has collected 2,300 reports of close encounters dating back over 40 years, with a significant rise in reported incidents in recent years. While some believe aliens plan to invade, others suggest they may be coming in peace.

Page 6-7: 'Lydia Stalnaker says she's no alien to close encounters of absurd kind' - By Bo Emerson, The Atlanta Constitution, Sep. 18 1985

This feature profiles Lydia Stalnaker, a self-proclaimed 'UFO contactee' who claims to have been abducted by aliens from Orion in August 1974. She describes being seized by a dome-headed creature with blue skin and red eyes, who implanted a tracking device in her hip and gave her powers to 'teleport,' heal, and control weather. Stalnaker held lectures in Atlanta, charging attendees for her account and healing sessions. She promotes herself with merchandise like 'Ready for Contact' T-shirts and 'Cross of Eternal Life' amulets. Her story has attracted the attention of independent producer Penny Price, who hopes to make a movie about her experience, aiming to combat negative stereotypes about aliens. Dr. James A. Harder, a professor of civil engineering and member of APRO, has interviewed Stalnaker and believes her story is 'true beyond a reasonable doubt.' However, Coral Lorenzen of APRO notes that while Stalnaker's experience appears genuine, she is also capitalizing on it. Some audience members expressed skepticism about Stalnaker's predictions, particularly regarding aliens gathering 'good' people into a floating city.

Page 7: 'Is Big Foot Near Annville?' - PA Lebanon Daily News, Sep. 15 1985

This short report details a sighting of a Bigfoot-like creature in North Annville Township, Pennsylvania. Edward Kreamer reported seeing a creature with long arms, an ape-like head, standing about 6-4, with a long stride, silhouetted against a white fence. Wayne King, director of the Michigan-Canadian Big Foot Information Center, confirmed the sighting and believes it to be authentic.

Page 8-9: 'Photograph of a UFO is the real thing' - WA-022 Yakima Herald Republic, Nov 11 1985

This article presents what is claimed to be the first documented, photographic proof of an extraterrestrial visitor: a satellite photo released by the US government. The dark object in the photo, described as squarish and black, was reportedly traveling at 4,500 mph. John T. Smith, who acquired the photo in 1978, states it is the first time such evidence has been released by the government. Experts, including Dr. Harley Rutledge and B. Ray Knox, professors at Southeast Missouri State University, and Stephen J. Robertson of Robertson's Creative Photography, have examined the image and its accompanying documentation, attesting to its authenticity and suggesting it was taken around Vladivostok, USSR. Smith asserts the craft is not American or Soviet.

Page 9: 'Space aliens are growing huge vegetables in crater' - Examiner, Sep. 17 1985

This piece reports on claims from Yuriria, Mexico, that aliens are cultivating enormous vegetables in volcanic craters. Government officials, including geographer Dr. Eduardo Lalo, have investigated reports of 'creatures from another planet' tending giant beets (over six feet tall), cabbages (nearly 55 pounds), and yard-wide onions (30 pounds). Prospector Jose Arrupe has witnessed UFOs coming and going from the crater vicinity. Government botanist Jaime Sandoval-Mendoza is analyzing soil samples, noting that the conditions do not explain the plant growth, suggesting an 'alien factor' that could potentially help feed the world's poor.

Page 10: 'UFOs disguise themselves as airplanes, huts' - By Peter Bemidji

This article revisits the famous abduction case of Betty and Barney Hill, which occurred 24 years prior. Betty Hill reveals that aliens can disguise their spacecraft as familiar objects like airplanes, helicopters, or even shacks. She claims to have had numerous sightings and continues to seek contact with extraterrestrials. The article mentions a specific incident where Betty and companions encountered a white shack that appeared to be elevated on wooden pilings, which then turned on its base and walked away, disappearing the next day. The article also includes a brief 'Comet' sighting report from Mrs. Sheila Taylor in Bispham Green, UK, who described an object in the sky resembling a comet with a long tail, appearing white and then orangey as it moved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS revolve around the increasing prevalence and acceptance of UFO sightings and alien encounters. There's a strong undercurrent of belief in extraterrestrial visitation, with some articles suggesting imminent contact or even invasion, while others focus on the scientific investigation of phenomena and the potential for interspecies communication. The magazine also touches upon the historical aspect of UFO research, referencing well-known cases like the Betty and Barney Hill abduction. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting various accounts and theories without explicit skepticism, and highlighting the growing number of reported incidents worldwide. The inclusion of a clipping service suggests a focus on gathering and disseminating information from various sources, often from local newspapers, to a wider audience interested in the subject. There's also an emphasis on the potential for government cover-ups and the need for public awareness.

This issue of "4E-3 FAMILY MOTOR COACHING MONTHLY" from November 1985, titled "Window on Nature," features a collection of articles primarily focused on unexplained aerial phenomena, including the mysterious Brown Mountain lights and various UFO sightings.

Lights That Go Bump In The Night

This lead article by Lowell & Kaye Christie investigates the phenomenon of the Brown Mountain lights in North Carolina. The lights, described as strange, pulsating, and appearing on clear, moonless nights, are attributed to a variety of causes, from natural phenomena like St. Elmo's Fire to UFOs. The authors recount their personal experience trying to observe the lights, noting that they appeared as dull red flashes, brightening and then blinking out, all essentially the same color. Scientific investigations by the U.S. Geological Survey in the early 20th century, notably by E.Y. Webb and George Rogers Mansfield, concluded that the lights were likely caused by locomotive headlights, car headlights, fixed lights, and brush fires. However, these explanations were challenged by local accounts, especially those dating back to a time before such technology existed, and during a massive flood when power lines were down yet the lights still appeared.

The article also briefly mentions the Marfa Lights in west Texas as a counterpart to the Brown Mountain mystery, noting similar descriptions and speculative causes like Indian ghosts, supernatural forces, or extraterrestrial visitors.

UFO Sightings are just 'plane' fun

This news brief from the NY-D32 NANARONECK TIMES (Nov. 23, 1985) reports on a mass sighting in Westchester and Putnam counties, New York, involving an illuminated blimp and seven small planes flying in formation, which callers initially mistook for a UFO. Police attributed the sightings to "ultra-lights" flown by a group seeking excitement. A Bedford police officer confirmed it was a small group of planes flying in formation, a "same old thing." An airport coordinator stated the objects did not originate from their airport. A Greenburgh police officer mentioned a media group confirmed it was a blimp likely heading to a football game. One officer expressed disappointment, having hoped it was a genuine UFO.

Hillside District Observer

This piece from the CRAWLEY DISTRICT OBSERVER, SUSSEX (Dec. 4, 1985) features a talk by Mr. Peter Wain of "BUFORA" (British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association) to the Hillside Women's Club. Wain emphasized the importance of keeping an open mind about UFOs, acknowledging that while many sightings have mundane explanations (weather balloons, aircraft), about ten percent remain unexplained. He shared his own experiences and mentioned the popular term "Flying Saucer" coined in 1947. The discussion included a report of two policemen witnessing a large circular object hovering over a car park.

UFO sighting a bonus for Godspeeders

Written by Larry Bonko for THE NORFOLK LEDGER STAR (Nov. 5, 1985), this article details a UFO sighting by the crew of the Godspeed, a ship that reenacted the 1607 sailing to Jamestown. The radioman, Neil Tanner, described seeing a flash of white lights in the night sky that darted, stopped, and moved erratically for about 10 minutes, with a slowly spinning red light revolving around it. The sighting occurred off the coast of Florida. Tanner, who logs everything in his voyage book, classified it as a UFO, dismissing possibilities of it being a helicopter or jet fighter. The article also touches on the ship's challenging voyage, encounters with manatees and other ships, and the crew's camaraderie.

UFO buzzes home of Death Wish star

This article from the EXAMINIER (Dec. 24, 1985) reports that actress Jill Ireland revealed that a UFO buzzed the mansion she shares with her husband, actor Charles Bronson. Ireland described a bright blue patch of sky that caught her attention, which then appeared to be a round object with a "dome or tower on top." She stated it moved up and up very fast and vanished. Both Jill and Charles believe it was a UFO. The article also briefly touches on Jill Ireland's belief in reincarnation and her conviction that she and Charles were together in a former life.

Hynek screens best of UFO sightings

This piece from the IL-CHICAGO SUN TIMES (Dec. 18, 1985) discusses the work of UFO hunter J. Allen Hynek, a former Northwestern University astronomer. Hynek is analyzing "the best" UFO sightings using his IBM personal computer for a book, having given up plans to head a new research center due to recent surgery. He has compiled 500 sightings from over 100,000 on record. The article mentions two authenticated reports of "boomerang" UFOs on the East Coast in 1984 and notes that Hynek's system will screen out publicity-shy saucers.

UFO sighting reports aren't so far-fetched

By George Hesselberg of The State Journal (WI-MADISON WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL, Dec 1, 1985), this article presents a detailed account from a woman who witnessed a triangular, black craft about 12 feet long, with a silver streak and no visible engines, moving silently. The craft hovered and made a sharp, graceful turn. The woman, described as quiet and serious, was frightened and called the police. An officer recalled a similar sighting from 12 years prior. The article also includes a similar account from a man who saw three white lights hovering near a farmhouse, which he described as roughly triangular and noiseless. Sergeant Ray Warner, a self-proclaimed skeptic, also spoke to the woman and stated she definitely saw something.

SEARCHING FOR STAR MEN

This multi-part series by Bill Smith from the BOULDER DAILY CAMERA (Nov. 3, 1985) focuses on UFOlogist Richard Sigismond. The first part describes Michael, an artist who, under hypnosis guided by Sigismond, produced drawings of alien beings and a UFO. Michael recalled a blue light that lifted his car and a missing hour of time, with a rectangular mark found on his wife Mary's abdomen. Sigismond, described as a leading UFOlogist, has investigated cattle mutilations and had close encounters himself.

ON THE LOOKS OF EXTRATERRESTRIALS

Sigismond discusses various reported alien types, including one-meter tall entities with large heads, Eurasian-like beings, creatures with spindly bodies, 3-footers with thick bodies and pumpkin-shaped heads, and the "Swedes" who are hard to notice. He also describes 4½-foot humanoids with grey skin, elongated heads, and claw-like hands, often associated with close encounters and abductions.

ON FEWER UFO REPORTS

Sigismond addresses the prediction that UFO sightings would be a fad, stating the phenomenon persists globally. He notes that while many reports are debunked, a significant number remain unexplained, and that thousands of reports are not needed if 50 establish the phenomenon's reality. He criticizes the media for ignoring credible evidence and emphasizes the need for scientific rigor.

ON THE UTILITY OF UFO RESEARCH

Sigismond highlights the lack of sufficient researchers, time, and money to quantitatively analyze UFO data. He explains that early attempts to correlate UFOs with cyclical patterns failed, and current data shows activity characterized by unpredictable waves. He spends significant time on UFO research without financial compensation.

ON ALIENS AS REFLECTIONS OF OUR FANTASIES

Sigismond argues that while humans may invent new mythologies during societal stress, the consistency of UFO reports across different cultures and languages suggests they are not merely psychological projections. He cites reports of UFOs visiting sensitive military bases as evidence that cannot be dismissed as mere myth.

ON GOVERNMENT SECRECY

Sigismond discusses the Freedom of Information Act lawsuits filed against the NSA, revealing rumors of 160 top-secret NSA documents on UFOs. He suggests that the government's secrecy about a phenomenon that penetrates national airspace indicates a cover-up.

ON UFOS AS AIR FORCE TEST VEHICLES

Sigismond dismisses the rumor that UFOs are Air Force test vehicles, stating that no government could produce devices with such advanced capabilities, implying anti-gravity technology beyond current understanding.

ON WHAT UFO RESEARCH NEEDS

Sigismond emphasizes the need for government cooperation, access to top-secret files, and time to review data. He believes this is essential for advancing UFO research.

ON PREPARING THE PUBLIC

Sigismond, as a social scientist, believes that gradual dissemination of information and public programming are crucial for assimilating the data about highly advanced civilizations to avoid cultural shock, especially if these civilizations are vastly more advanced than humanity.

EARTH: UNDER SURVEILLANCE

This section presents Sigismond's hypothesis that UFOs are artifact craft created by advanced technologies and that the planet is under surveillance by multiple extraterrestrial societies, possibly from other dimensions or parallel realities. He supports his theories with diagrams, sketches, and transcripts, and engages in public speaking and documentaries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the persistent mystery of unexplained aerial phenomena, particularly the Brown Mountain lights and UFO sightings. There is a strong emphasis on eyewitness testimony, scientific investigation (and its limitations), and the potential for government secrecy or cover-ups. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the unexplained aspects of these phenomena while also critically examining evidence and debunking hoaxes. The articles collectively suggest that while many UFO reports have mundane explanations, a significant portion remains anomalous and warrants further investigation.

This issue of the Wisconsin State Journal, dated Tuesday, November 26, 1985, features a prominent headline about two UFO sightings in the local area, alongside in-depth articles exploring the broader UFO phenomenon. The publication delves into the work of investigator Richard Sigismond, government investigations, and specific case studies.

UFO Sightings in Wisconsin

The lead story, "Oh, oh, UFO: Two are sighted here," details reports from two individuals who claim to have seen triangular-shaped UFOs hovering over homes. John, an emotionally stable state employee, described seeing three white lights hovering about 20 to 30 feet above a farmhouse. He initially mistook it for an airplane or helicopter but then realized it was something unknown. The craft was roughly triangular, noiseless, and disappeared when he got out of his car. A similar report was received by the Madison Police Department from a woman who saw a flying saucer with a roughly triangular shape and three white lights below it hovering over a home on Milwaukee Street.

Investigator Richard Sigismond's Work

The magazine extensively covers the work of Richard Sigismond, who earns his living as a mining engineer and uses his sophisticated equipment for UFO investigations. Sigismond has written numerous articles and specializes in using hypnotism to explore UFO encounters, particularly abductions. He notes that classic UFO abduction patterns include seizure of humans, examination by humanoids, and telepathic communication, often leaving abductees traumatized despite assurances of safe return. Sigismond adamantly denies the possibility of faked cases, citing the difficulty of consciously maintaining such a complex deception under deep hypnosis.

Sigismond's hypnotism techniques are challenged by Dr. Alvin Lawson and Dr. William McCall, who suggest that imaginary and real experiences in deep trances are identical, indicating psychological rather than physical events. However, Sigismond counters by questioning how separate, corroborative testimonies from two hypnotized subjects could be explained. He emphasizes the importance of non-directive questioning by investigators to avoid contaminating witness accounts.

Sigismond highlights the credibility of witnesses, noting that about 11 percent of the adult American population claims to have witnessed a UFO. He prefers witnesses who are trained and knowledgeable observers. The article presents a 1976 case near Jicarillo, N.M., involving Sergeant James Bustamanti, a Highway Patrol Lieutenant, who reported a cigar-shaped craft that played cat and mouse with his cruiser. Another case describes a husband and wife who witnessed a close encounter with a brightly lit object moving slowly, described as the size of two houses.

Sigismond, after 30 years in the field, maintains intense curiosity but functions with detachment, comparing his work to a surgeon performing an appendectomy. He denies having emotional reactions or fear, even after experiencing two close encounters himself, though he concedes he might be in awe if he met extraterrestrials face-to-face.

He notes a recent rise in UFO reports, with major sightings involving thousands of witnesses. He mentions that the Soviets have set up a probe on UFOs, France has authorized a study, and Dr. J. Allen Hynek was invited to Paris for data exchange. Sigismond hopes that 'Contact' might alter human perspectives and behavior, potentially preventing nuclear catastrophe.

Case Studies of Uncomfortable Encounters

The issue details three specific cases:

• CASE STUDY: CE-1. Nov. 1975 - Near Sterling, Colo.: Reporter Bill Jackson and his wife witnessed a large craft with numerous lights, described as a 747, flying very low and silently. This incident occurred during a period of frequent cattle mutilation reports.
• CASE STUDY: CE-1. July 6, 1967 - 45 Miles Northeast of Missoula, Mont.: Richard Sigismond and a friend observed a fat cigar-shaped object, 125 feet wide and 30 feet thick, with a soft metal sheen, hovering near spruce pines.
• CASE STUDY: CE-2. May 1982 - Near Simla, Colo.: A rancher reported a horse mutilation where the genitals and anus were removed with extreme precision. The horse was in a remarkable state of preservation despite some decay, and local greyhound dogs avoided the site.

The 'Zone of Silence'

An article titled "Mysterious zone of silence" by Edward Hirsch explores a 111-square-mile desert area in Mexico where car batteries and radios fail, and mysterious lights and bizarre animal behavior are reported. Space pioneer Werner von Braun admitted it was likely chosen by aliens as a perfect UFO landing site. The area is on the same parallel as the Bermuda Triangle. The article mentions an intelligent meteorite that landed in the zone in February 1969, described as containing "crystalline material older than the solar system." It also notes the strange behavior of a U.S. missile that inexplicably altered its trajectory and landed in the zone. Scientists speculate that the zone may contain a magnet that attracts objects from space, and Werner von Braun suggested it might have been chosen by extraterrestrials similarly to how the U.S. selected the Sea of Tranquility for its moon landing base.

Investigator Robert Hastings and Government Cover-up Claims

An article by Dominic Tom, "Investigator Asserts UFOs Worth Concern," reports on Robert Hastings' lecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Hastings, who claims to have seen five UFOs on a radar screen near nuclear weapon silos in 1967, asserts that UFOs exist, are not misperceived phenomena, and that the U.S. government has engaged in a massive cover-up. He cites declassified documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, including a 1952 memo from the Office of Scientific Intelligence to the CIA, which stated that unexplained objects at high altitudes and speeds near defense installations required immediate attention and were not attributable to natural phenomena or known aerial vehicles. Another memo detailed discussions between Army and FBI intelligence officers regarding 'unidentified aircraft' or 'unidentified aerial phenomena,' referred to as 'flying discs,' 'flying saucers,' and 'balls of fire,' which were considered top secret.

Hastings also presented information from a March 1950 memo to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, which stated that three 'so-called flying saucers' had been recovered in New Mexico. These craft were described as circular, approximately 50 feet in diameter, and occupied by three 3-foot-tall alien bodies dressed in metallic cloth. The memo suggested that the government used a high-powered radar set-up in New Mexico to interfere with the controlling mechanisms of these saucers. Hastings also cited a reply from Hoover agreeing to FBI agent interviews with UFO witnesses, provided the bureau could inspect 'recovered discs' and other materials that the Army had previously denied access to.

Hastings maintains that secret investigations of UFOs have been conducted by the military, CIA, and National Security Council, but the results were never made public due to fears of public panic. He also mentioned reports of an 'aerial dogfight' between Iranian personnel and UFOs over Tehran in 1976, and testimony from retired Air Force officers who said target codes on nuclear missiles stored in silos would scramble after UFOs flew over the sites.

UFO Controversy in Santa Ana

A separate article, "Did it come from outer space?" by Tom Krattenmaker, discusses a dispute over Indian artifacts in South Orange County that revived a mystery involving alleged visitations from outer space. Local Gabrielino Indian Chief Jim Velasques produced Polaroid snapshots taken in 1959 by a reserve deputy showing a saucer-shaped light over an Indian religious site in the Mojave Desert. Velasques claims these photographs prove his people's ancient link to outer space and are evidence of his people's continuing contact with alien astronauts. However, sheriff's personnel and archaeologists dismissed the interpretation, attributing the shape to photographic quirks or flaws. The article mentions that a UFO hobbyist conference was held at Giant Rock, where the pictures were taken, and that the phenomenon lasted only about 10 seconds, with only two boys reportedly seeing it directly.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained, with a focus on UFO sightings, investigations, and the potential for government secrecy. The articles present witness testimonies, expert opinions (both supportive and skeptical), and historical cases. There is a clear emphasis on the credibility of witnesses and the need for rigorous investigation. The overall tone suggests a serious consideration of the UFO phenomenon as more than just misperceived natural events, while also acknowledging the challenges in proving such claims and the skepticism they often face. The inclusion of both local sightings and broader international cases indicates a comprehensive approach to the topic.