Magazine Overview
Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 11, No. 6
Date: June 1986
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA
This issue of UFO NEWS, published by the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping & Information Center (A.P.C.I.C.), presents a collection of recent and historical reports concerning unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The cover features a prominent illustration of three flying saucers.
Key Articles and Reports
"Shedding light on unidentified flying objects" by John McKelway (The Rambler)
The author recounts a personal sighting of a bright, noiseless light in the sky in Kensington, Maryland, during the late 1970s. He notes a recent "dearth" of UFO sightings over the past three years and wonders if the Air Force is concerned. An anonymous letter writer, identifying himself as "Jack Daniels, President, UFO Research, Inc.," suggested the author was drunk when he saw the UFO and also commented on the lack of recent sightings.
Los Angeles Times Report (May 23, 1986)
This report details a sighting of a mysterious object, described as a large orange 'X' with white lights, by over a dozen people north of San Francisco. A California Highway Patrol officer and radio station KTOB news director Arlette Cohen were among the witnesses. The object reportedly hovered and then traveled at a high rate of speed. Similar reports of "ping-pong-ball-sized, multi-colored UFOs" crowding radar screens in Sao Paulo, Brazil, are also mentioned, with government scrambling jet fighters and pilots reporting sightings.
"UFO SHOCKER IN THE DEVIL'S TRIANGLE!" (Weekly World News, June 24, 1986)
Bahamian researchers are investigating a report where a UFO allegedly saved a family from drowning after their boat sank in the Devil's Triangle on May 5, 1986. Dr. Leopold Stinson presented the case, stating the UFO rose from the sea and dropped a life raft bearing the insignia of the U.S. Air Force. Stinson believes this could be evidence of alien intelligence and plans to investigate if the raft's numbers can be matched to planes that disappeared in the Triangle. The family, who are medical doctors from Brazil, reported sending an SOS and seeing a golden-colored, star-shaped UFO. The craft reportedly crackled and hummed as it moved.
"Fireball zooms across Harbor sky, breaks up" by Eric Stevick (Aberdeen Daily World, March 20, 1986)
Witnesses in Aberdeen, Washington, reported seeing a fireball, described as "about the size of a basketball 20 yards away," streak across the sky and break up. Paul Ross and his wife, Dorothy, observed the phenomenon. Robert Gribble of the National UFO Reporting Center explained that fireballs are meteors burning up in the atmosphere. The sighting occurred on the last official night of winter.
"GOVT. PROBE AFTER VIPS SAY PING-PONG UFOS ARE FOR REAL" by Keith Davidson (Globe, June 17, 1986)
This article discusses a "startling invasion of UFOs" witnessed by distinguished Brazilians over central Brazil. The UFOs, described as "ping-pong ball things with intense red, white and green lights," reportedly out-paced jet fighters and were confirmed on radar. A Brazilian government official, requesting anonymity, stated that the evidence is convincing and that 1986 might be the year of first contact. The UFOs were observed at speeds up to 1,000 mph. The incident involved five seasoned jet fighter pilots, air traffic controllers, Colonel Ozires Silva (President of Petrobras), and Alcir Pereira da Silva (pilot for Embraer). Some witnesses saw the UFOs directly, while others tracked them on radar. One pilot reported seeing "seven on one side and six on the other." The civilian pilot, Otto Nogueira, felt the UFOs were demonstrating their superiority. The government is reportedly concerned about information leaks potentially causing public panic.
"Close-mouthed after a close encounter" by John Todd (San Francisco Examiner, May 23, 1986)
This article revisits the sighting of an orange X-shaped object with blinking lights over Petaluma, California. Arlette Cohen, news director of KTOB, and a Highway Patrol officer were among those who saw the object. The object reportedly hovered and was swift and bright. The Sonoma County sheriff's office and the county airport reported no calls about the sighting.
"UFOs hover over county" by Donna Daniels (Western Press Clipping Bureau, May 1, 1986)
Reports from Kremmling, Colorado, describe numerous UFO sightings, including stationary, colored lights over Kremmling and a large group of law enforcement officers witnessing objects over Williams Peak and the Gore. A jet plane was observed veering around one of the objects. Witnesses, described as trained observers, were reluctant to discuss the event but did not deny that something strange occurred.
Sequel To "UFO's Visit Nebraska" (63A-28 Nebraska Oil Jobber Monthly, April 1986)
This article follows up on a previous report about an unidentified flying object that crashed 35 miles northwest of Benkelman, Nebraska, on June 6, 1884. Cowboy Alf Williamson reportedly received severe burns attempting to view the object. The editor of the Daily State Journal vouched for the writer's intelligence. The sequel describes a rainstorm that occurred shortly after the crash, during which the "queer object" reportedly melted and dissolved, leaving only small jelly-like pools. The air was filled with a faint sweetish smell. The event remains a mystery, and Alf Williamson was reportedly traveling to Denver for treatment.
"Scoop! Space aliens are taking over the Pentagon" by Joseph Sobran (Chicago Sun-Times, May 29, 1986)
Joseph Sobran discusses a theory proposed by UFO expert Roland Burke, who believes that over half of the Pentagon's work force are space aliens posing as humans. Burke developed this theory after noticing staff members with a sixth finger and observing one individual with a "strange red glow" in his eyes. Sobran suggests this could account for increased U.S. belligerence but also posits that aliens might be trying to help. He humorously relates this to his neighbor's unusual behavior and loud music.
"X-shaped UFO spotted above Sonoma County" (Associated Press, May 23, 1986)
This Associated Press report reiterates the sighting of a mysterious X-shaped craft with blinking lights over Sonoma County, California. Witnesses, including Arlette Cohen, reported the object hovering before speeding away. San Francisco Bay area air traffic controllers stated that radar detected no such object at that time.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena, witness testimonies, and the ongoing investigation into UFO sightings. There is a consistent focus on credible witnesses, including pilots, law enforcement officers, and news professionals. The magazine appears to present a range of incidents, from personal sightings to large-scale radar confirmations, and explores both contemporary and historical cases. The editorial stance, as suggested by the content and the publication's name, is one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, aiming to collect and disseminate information on aerial events that defy conventional explanation. The inclusion of a historical case from 1884 and a controversial theory about aliens in the Pentagon indicates a broad scope of interest within the UFO field.
This document is a collection of newspaper clippings from May 1986, primarily focusing on UFO sightings and related phenomena. The clippings are from various publications including the OH-ARRON BEACON JOURNAL, OXFORD MAIL, IRISH TIMES, BURTON DAILY MAIL, GLASGOW HERALD, EXAMINER, BOULDER DAILY CAMERA, BELLINGHAM WA. HERALD, HOUSTON CHRONICLE, SUNDAY SUN LOWELL, and WESTERN PRESS CUPPING BUREAU.
Secrecy on UFOs Charged: Researcher Cites Records (OH-ARRON BEACON JOURNAL, May 8, 1986)
By Marilyn Miller Roane, Beacon Journal staff writer
Robert Hastings, an independent UFO researcher from Albuquerque, N.M., claims that government officials have kept information secret or tried to explain away UFO sightings. He stated that the government's explanations often involve 'solar reflections on low-hanging clouds, small meteors breaking up and flattened hardstones caused by icing conditions' to minimize public panic. Hastings presented documents, obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, which he stated were previously classified by the CIA, FBI, and U.S. Air Force. These documents reportedly show repeated sightings of UFOs near strategic air bases and nuclear testing zones, suggesting a significant interest in nuclear weapon capabilities. He also mentioned that 23 astronauts claimed to have seen UFOs while in space. A 1950 memo to FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, cited by Hastings, mentioned the recovery of three 'so-called flying saucers' in New Mexico, described as circular with raised centers, approximately 50 feet in diameter, each occupied by three 3-foot-tall beings dressed in metallic cloth.
Hastings shared his first UFO experience in March 1967 at Malmstrom Air Force Base, where five UFOs were tracked on military radar for half an hour before fleeing at an estimated speed of 5,000 mph. This incident, he said, remains classified and prompted his investigation into a government cover-up.
Shaking News for UFO-lovers (MAIL ON SUNDAY, London, May 18, 1986)
AMERICAN scientists Dr. Michael Persinger and Dr. John Derr suggest that most UFO sightings are related to earthquakes. Their study claims that sightings, often at night and involving red, orange, or white lights, are frequently reported in the months before an earthquake and are usually within 20 kilometers of the epicenter. Similar sightings were reported before last year's Mexico quake. However, the scientists cannot explain how these phenomena happen.
Just a flying visit to the pub! (OXFORD MAIL, May 16, 1986)
LANDLORD Ray Grimes of Woodstock reported seeing a UFO on the night he saw it above his pub. He described a brilliant white light that moved slowly downward, split into two, then came together again before turning orange and vanishing. Derek Mansell, treasurer of a UFO research group, stated that reports of UFOs splitting in two and coming together again are not uncommon and that he would investigate the incident. A remote possibility mentioned was a satellite burning up.
Brazilian Air Force chases UFOs (IRISH TIMES, Dublin, May 23, 1986)
SIX BRAZILIAN Air Force fighter jets chased more than a dozen UFOs over three Brazilian cities. The objects, described as ping-pong balls, moved at speeds between 160 and 990 mph and were detected on radar. Air Force Minister Brigadier-General Octabio Moreira Lima stated that the incident required technical explanation. The chase involved F-5E jet fighters and later Mirage 111 fighters, which pursued the objects for half an hour. The planes were forced to land due to fuel depletion.
More UFO sightings reported by Brazil (GLASGOW HERALD, May 24, 1986)
FURTHER UFO sightings were reported in Brazil, including a glowing, round object filmed near Maringa and a dark, cigar-shaped object seen over Fortaleza. The air force ministry summoned pilots to report on the sightings.
A 'close encounter' puzzle for couple (BURTON DAILY MAIL, May 21, 1986)
Pensioners Leo and Jose Barker of Burton reported seeing a cigar-shaped cluster of stars with a red light on 14 consecutive nights. They described the lights as fast-moving and unusual. The National UFO Investigation Society planned to investigate.
UFOs snatch over 16 ships in five years (EXAMINER, June 10, 1986)
Experts claim that an epidemic of vanishing ships, with 16 reported in the past five years, is the work of UFOs. Lloyd's Intelligence Service reported that the tragic losses have claimed the lives of 400 seamen. Alan Villiers, president of the Society for Nautical Research, stated that modern communications and safety systems were no match for the advanced technology used by extraterrestrials. Investigators suggest that ships may have stumbled upon aliens conducting research. Gaetano Parlucci of the Mediterranean UFO Tracking Group believes aliens may be holding crews hostage. Kurt Stehling, a senior advisory scientist, noted that the high seas are attractive for aliens to observe undisturbed. Wayne Hornback of Global UFO Research suggests these activities indicate preparations for a new golden age on Earth.
UFO sighted over Eagle and Summit counties was Venus (WESTERN PRESS CUPPING BUREAU, Berthoud, Calif., May 2, 1986)
Annah Scully and other residents in Eagle and Summit counties, Colorado, reported seeing brightly colored, pulsating objects in the sky. Dr. Richard Altrock, an astrophysicist, suggested these were likely the planet Venus, explaining that atmospheric conditions and turbulence can cause Venus to appear to change colors and split into multiple images. Similar sightings were reported by the Summit County sheriff and other officials.
UFOs spotted over Gore Range (SUMMIT SENTINEL, April 23, 1986)
Sheriff's deputies, State Patrol officers, and residents reported seeing unidentified flying objects hovering over the Gore Range in Colorado. Witnesses described brightly colored objects that stayed motionless. The objects were seen by rancher Mike Young and resident Don Rider. Sheriff Delbert Ewoldt stated he had never observed anything like it and that his officers also observed the same thing.
Colorado and its UFOs (BOULDER DAILY CAMERA, April 24, 1986)
This article discusses the Colorado Organization for a Rational Alternative to Pseudoscience (CO-RAP) and its president, Bela Scheiber. Scheiber, a systems analyst, became interested in UFOs and reincarnation in his early teens but later became skeptical, viewing believers' responses as irrational conspiracy gambits. He believes that evidence of UFOs is anecdotal and that the burden of proof lies with believers. Richard Sigismond, a Boulder UFO researcher, charges that the Air Force chose Edward Condon to head the Condon Report study because of Condon's skepticism. Sigismond believes the country and planet have been under surveillance by a highly advanced, unknown society. The article also mentions Philip J. Klass, who debunks UFO claims, and David Saunders, a former University of Colorado psychology professor who worked on the Condon project.
Sightings of UFOs drop significantly, but debate continues (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, April 28, 1986)
By Marjie Lundstrom, Denver Post
Reporter Bill Jackson recounts a 1975 close encounter with a large, airborne craft. The article notes a significant decline in UFO sightings and public interest since the 1950s and '60s. Philip J. Klass attributes this to media sophistication and the fading mystique of space travel, emphasizing the lack of physical artifacts. Richard Sigismond vehemently disagrees, asserting that the evidence points to surveillance by an advanced alien society. The article details the controversial University of Colorado Condon Report, which concluded further investigation was unnecessary. David Saunders, who worked on the project, believes the report was intended to allow the Air Force to close Project Blue Book. The article also mentions Betty Ricigliano's sighting of a 'submarine' and Carol Del Duca's claim of alien abduction.
UFOS DROP CON'T (Page 8)
This section continues the discussion from the Houston Chronicle article. It reiterates the Condon Commission's goal of closing Project Blue Book and Condon's skeptical findings. It also includes accounts from Betty Ricigliano and Carol Del Duca regarding their UFO experiences. The article mentions that many people still fear reporting UFOs due to ridicule, as stated by Sherman Larsen of the Center for UFO Studies.
Ufology isn't fly-by-night field, say local newsletter publishers (SUNDAY SUN LOWELL, March 2, 1985)
Army Staff Sgt. Raymond Keller and civilian Steve Firmani publish the 'Aerial/Space and Phenomena Review,' a monthly newsletter on UFOs with a circulation of 250. They disseminate information from UFO monitoring organizations worldwide. The newsletter includes stories on various UFO sightings and disputes reported sightings, attributing some to misinterpretations of astronomical phenomena. The article notes the U.S. Air Force's investigation of UFOs from 1948 to 1969, which concluded there was no evidence of extraterrestrial vehicles or a threat to national security.
UFOs spotted over Gore Range (SUMMIT SENTINEL, April 23, 1986)
This clipping reports on UFO sightings over the Gore Range in Colorado, observed by sheriff's deputies, the State Patrol, and residents. Witnesses described brightly colored objects that stayed motionless. Sheriff Delbert Ewoldt stated the event was strange and that his officers also observed it. The objects were initially spotted by rancher Mike Young. The article notes that triangular UFO patterns have been occurring in recent years.
Where Are UFOs? (THE MC KEESPORT DAILY NEWS, May 28, 1986)
This editorial questions the current lack of news and discussion about UFOs, contrasting it with the prevalence of such reports in the 1950s and '60s. It poses whether there are fewer UFOs or if they are simply being seen less. The editorial references J. Allen Hynek, an astrophysicist who lent scientific credibility to UFO research, and his legacy of applying rigorous scientific method to analysis, urging against dismissing reports without examination. It notes the recent reports from Brazil and suggests that trained minds should be asking pertinent questions about the phenomenon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes across these articles include: the persistence of UFO sightings despite official skepticism, the debate between believers and skeptics, the role of government secrecy and official investigations (like the Condon Report), the impact of media and public perception on UFO reporting, and the search for scientific explanations for these phenomena. There is a clear division between those who believe in the reality of UFOs and potential extraterrestrial visitation, and those who attribute sightings to misidentification, natural phenomena, or hoaxes. The articles generally present eyewitness accounts and researcher findings, while also acknowledging the official stance of skepticism or lack of conclusive evidence. The overall stance leans towards acknowledging the phenomenon as worthy of investigation, even if definitive answers remain elusive.
