APCIC - Vol 12 No 06 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 12 No. 6
Date: June 1987
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS, dated June 1987, presents a collection of articles and reports on UFO sightings and related phenomena from various sources and locations. The magazine features its editorial staff, foreign correspondents, and subscription information, indicating its role as a clearinghouse for UFO-related news.

Contents

"Moon Dust Gets In Their Eyes" by Rick Murray

This article discusses the general skepticism surrounding UFO sightings, comparing them to ghosts. It recounts an incident where FAA officials attributed a radar anomaly to a "false second blip" caused by a system failure, but denied a reporter's request for an interview. The piece mentions Bob Barry, a broadcaster who believes the government is hiding information and has compiled "secret memos" related to UFOs, though their authenticity is questioned. Another anecdote involves a man who claimed to be abducted by aliens. The article also touches upon a widely reported sighting of a "flying walnut" over Alaska, initially detected by both FAA and military radar, which was later dismissed by the military as "ground clutter."

"Mysterious streak of light spotted in Southwest sky"

This brief report from the Daily News on April 14, 1987, details how residents in Arizona, California, and south of the Mexican border reported seeing a streak of bright light, described as "something on fire, like a ball of fire." Officials were unable to explain the phenomenon, with some suggesting it might be atmospheric, though it was described as flashing red and blue, unlike stars.

"CENSORING THE PARANORMAL" by Jerome Clark

This article critically examines the efforts of debunking organizations, particularly CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal), and its members like Carl Sagan and Stephen J. Gould. Clark argues that CSICOP's mission to combat "irrationality" and "dangerous sects" has led to a "witch-hunting" mentality and harassment of those who investigate anomalies. He cites an incident where CSICOP official Philip J. Klass threatened legal action against the University of Nebraska for sponsoring a forum on anomalies research. The article notes that many scientists do not share the absolute certainty of debunkers, and mentions the Parapsychological Association's affiliation with the AAAS. It concludes by suggesting a need to defuse hysteria and focus on dispassionate investigation.

"UFOs moving away from the New England region"

This article from the Bridgeport Post Telegram (April 6, 1987) features Donald Todd, an investigator for the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization Inc., who states that UFO sightings have decreased in Rhode Island over the past few years. Todd acknowledges that some skeptics find his pursuit strange but believes people generally take UFOs seriously. He notes that close encounters and abductions are rarer, and he receives calls about once every three months, usually false alarms. Todd recounts an experience of seeing an "unearthly craft" buzzing southern Rhode Island and following him home. He has had two other sightings in his 30 years of investigating.

"Callers claim they saw UFO"

This report from the Hamilton Journal News (April 8, 1987) describes how hundreds of callers flooded the country's first UFO hotline. Organiser Richard Lawrence notes that callers are often serious professionals. Common descriptions include large, cigar-shaped craft and round, silver metallic objects with port holes. Some callers report seeing craft that sound strikingly similar to reports from other locations on the same day. A pensioner in Kent reported seeing a bright orange and yellow object hovering, while three teenage boys in Doncaster reported seeing a fleet of around 20 objects changing color. Lawrence states that people rarely report seeing occupants or landings, but rather hovering craft.

"UFO Study Group charts meeting"

This announcement from the Ohio-D12 Canton Repository (April 8, 1987) invites anyone who has sighted an unidentified flying object or a Bigfoot-type creature to attend a meeting of the Tri-County UFO Study Group. The meeting includes a presentation on tornado detection and safety, and updates on recent UFO activity, including a sighting in the Minerva area. Don Keating will report on Bigfoot sightings in eastern Ohio. The meeting is open to the public.

"Whatever Happened to UFOs?" by Michael Wolfert

This article from Woman's World Weekly (April 21, 1987) explores the decline in UFO sightings since the 1970s. It contrasts the public's past fascination with UFOs, evidenced by a 1978 Gallup poll showing 20 million Americans had seen one, with the current lull. The article quotes UFO buff Dan Wright and editor Jerome Clark, who note the decrease in activity. It presents the skeptical view that UFOs were never real, but rather misperceived phenomena, while believers suggest that craft may be bypassing Earth or that people are afraid to report sightings due to ridicule. The piece mentions government investigations like Project Blue Book, which concluded in 1969, and the efforts of organizations like MUFON and CUFOS, founded by J. Allen Hynek, to study UFOs. It also touches on the National Enquirer's offer of a reward for verifiable evidence of extraterrestrial UFOs, which went unclaimed. The article notes a shift in focus from sightings to personal encounters and abductions, with Professor David Jacobs estimating about three hundred such cases.

"Scientists say life exists on other planets"

This article from the Evening Herald, Dublin (April 8, 1987) reports on a debate moderated by Al Hibbs, a retired space scientist, regarding the probability of extraterrestrial life. Committee member Carl Sagan stated that in a universe with billions of galaxies and stars, it's unlikely Earth is the only inhabited planet. Frank Drake, dean of natural sciences at the University of California, suggested that extraterrestrial tourists might view Earth as a "zoo." The consensus among speakers was that while no confirmed reports of UFOs from other planets exist, intelligent life is likely abundant.

"Mysteries in the air" (Past Times)

This piece from Weekend, London (April 28, 1987) revisits the history of UFO sightings, noting that flying saucers and space monsters began exciting the West in the 1940s, with over 600 sightings reported annually by the end of the decade. It references the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 and a 1977 incident where 15 pupils in Wales reported seeing a silvery-yellow, cigar-shaped form. It also mentions a 1970s report of a policeman being beamed aboard a flying saucer.

"Couple in UFO mystery"

This article from the Gloucester Echo, Cheltenham (April 22, 1987) details a sighting by Mrs. Maureen Vernon and her husband of two unidentified flying objects above Cheltenham. Mrs. Vernon described one object as a "silver-grey rugby ball turning over from top to bottom," which stopped, changed direction, and hurtled off. The airport control tower reported no flights over the area at the time.

"A strange encounter by UFO spotters"

This report from the Hartlepool Mail (England) on April 22, 1987, features SKYWATCHER Denis Proud, who reported seeing a yellowish light that moved erratically, split into two, with one part falling and the other speeding off. He expressed newfound conviction about UFOs. His son Michael also witnessed the phenomenon. Teesside Airport and Newcastle Airport officials provided information about airport operations and potential military exercises, but could not confirm the sighting.

"A Hotline is flooded by UFO spotters"

This Daily Express London article (April 20, 1987) highlights the success of the country's first UFO hotline, organized by Richard Lawrence. Hundreds of callers, described as serious professionals, have reported sightings. Common descriptions include large, cigar-shaped craft and round, silver metallic objects with port holes. The article notes that callers' reports often show striking similarities to those from other locations on the same day. It also mentions that people rarely report seeing occupants or landings, focusing instead on hovering craft. The hotline number is provided.

"Hotline link for UFO spotters"

This Western Morning News Plymouth article (April 21, 1987) discusses the Aetherius Society's initiative to provide a UFO telephone hotline, aiming to give people reporting sightings a chance to be taken seriously. Dr. Richard Lawrence, secretary of the society, states that the hotline has already received reports from Devon and Cornwall, including a couple who saw two UFOs at Seaton, one a bright orange light and the other a red light moving at high speed. Another report describes a cigar-shaped UFO at St. Breock. The Aetherians believe that the ability of these objects to "blink out" and travel at incredible speeds makes standard Ministry of Defence explanations ridiculous. The society also makes annual pilgrimages to Holdstone Down, near Combe Martin, which they consider a holy mountain.

"Ship's crew menaced by giant flying saucer UFO from the depths of the sea!"

This Weekly World News article (May 19, 1987) reports on a saucer-shaped UFO that emerged from the ocean and circled a Japanese freighter, the Taki Kyoto, for 15 terrifying minutes. The UFO caused structural damage to the ship and malfunctioned its instruments. The captain, Taki Usuda, described the craft as being at least five times the length of the vessel and glowing like blue neon. The incident occurred 175 miles east of Kanazawa in the Sea of Japan. The article notes that authorities scanned the area with ships and aircraft but found no trace of the alleged starship. Coastal authority spokesman Hoshi Ishido officially called it an "unidentified object."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics. There is a noticeable trend of reporting on past events and historical sightings, alongside contemporary accounts from various locations. The magazine highlights the efforts of organizations like CSICOP to debunk paranormal claims, while also giving voice to UFO enthusiasts and researchers who believe in the reality of these phenomena. The shift from sightings to personal encounters and abductions is also noted as a significant development in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting a broad spectrum of information and viewpoints within the UFO community, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also providing a platform for reporting and discussion.

This issue of The Examiner, dated May 12, 1987, features a prominent cover story titled "Kidnapped by aliens!" detailing the alleged abduction experience of best-selling author Whitley Strieber. The magazine also delves into government handling of UFO information, scientific perspectives on extraterrestrial encounters, and various reported sightings and cases.

"Kidnapped by aliens!" - The Whitley Strieber Account

The lead article focuses on Whitley Strieber, author of "The Hunger" and "Wolfen," who claims he was abducted by aliens on December 26, 1985, at his upstate New York cabin. Strieber recounts being awakened by a strange noise and seeing an alien with a large head, no ears or nose, and huge black eyes. He was then moved out of the room, blacked out, and later found himself paralyzed in a small, gray room resembling an operating theater, where aliens examined him and inserted a hairlike probe into his brain. After regaining consciousness in his bed, Strieber sought help from Dr. Donald Klein of the New York State Psychiatric Institute, who confirmed Strieber was sane and had not imagined the event. Strieber is now urging the scientific community and the US government to investigate UFO abductions, believing it could unlock universal secrets. UFO expert David Jacobs is quoted stating that hundreds of Americans may have been kidnapped by UFO aliens, with many cases sharing similar details and lacking any signs of psychosis or mental trauma.

UK Ministry of Defence Accused of Destroying UFO Records

A report from the Evening News London (April 23, 1987) reveals that hundreds of UFO sighting reports from the UK Ministry of Defence, due for release under the 25-year rule, have allegedly been destroyed. The Aetherius Society, an international body believing in UFOs, is convinced the Ministry has been covering up UFO activity and deliberately scrapped the records. Dr. John Holder, spokesman for the society, stated that the 25-year rule would have forced the Ministry to reveal records they had been pressing to see for years. The society planned a public meeting in Kensington to discuss this and present new facts and figures from the United States, where freedom of information legislation has forced civil servants to reveal files. Dr. Holder claims to have a taped interview with a Ministry official proving significant sightings in the 1950s and 60s, contradicting previous Ministry statements that UFOs did not exist. The Ministry spokesman stated their duty was to defend Britain and NATO allies, and that flying saucers do not pose a threat to Britain's security.

UFO Phenomenon and Scientific Scrutiny

The article "Close encounters of bureaucratic kind" highlights that the UFO phenomenon has been global for approximately 50,000 years, suggesting the possibility of alien visitation. Dr. Holder also discusses America's legal policy on contact with aliens, noting that contact is strictly illegal and can result in a year in prison or a $5,000 fine. The Aetherius Society has been running a UFO hotline, receiving over 200 sightings in a short period, with several in the past week alone. A recent London sighting in Whitechapel involved an electrical engineer who saw "three to five white objects" flying in a V-formation at phenomenal speed without sound. The article also mentions NORAD admitting to collecting 10 million uncorrelated sightings over 20 years.

"E.T. Charged in Kidnap" - Roy Bonisteel's "The E.T. Hypothesis"

The Toronto Sun (March 29, 1987) features "E.T. Charged in Kidnap," discussing Roy Bonisteel's CBC program "Man Alive" which explores the "E.T. Hypothesis." The segment suggests aliens have been abducting people for genetic experiments for decades. Bonisteel, producer David Cherniack, and others are influenced by the work of Budd Hopkins, author of "Missing Time" and "Intruders." Hopkins has interviewed over 120 people who report strange phantom memories of abductions, with consistent descriptions of aliens, their methods, and technology across different individuals. The article details an interview with an abductee named Dorothy, who describes being taken to a barn and artificially inseminated, with the fetus later removed. The story is compared to the well-known Barney and Betty Hill case, where hypnosis revealed details of alien encounters and a star chart memory.

Budd Hopkins and Abductee Support

Budd Hopkins, a New York artist and UFO researcher, is featured for his work with abductees. He has interviewed over 135 subjects and documented thousands of hours of interviews. His book "Intruders" details cases of alien kidnappings involving genetic experiments, including skin grafts, probes, appropriation of sperm and ova, and the presentation of hybrid beings. Hopkins runs an abductee support group and notes that Whitley Strieber, after experiencing abduction memories, became hypersensitive, snappish, and felt watched. Strieber underwent physical and psychological tests, with Dr. Donald F. Klein confirming his sanity and belief in his experiences. Strieber's family has also come to terms with the phenomenon, with his son Andrew having dreams of "little doctors" and his wife Anne witnessing unearthly lights.

Scientific Skepticism and Open-Mindedness

Despite the growing number of reports and public interest, the scientific establishment remains largely skeptical. Paul Kurtz, chairman of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal, dismisses such books as "malarkey." However, research psychologist Dr. John Gliedman advocates for keeping an open mind, stating there is no evidence of mental illness in abductees and that they often describe their experiences like a rape, requiring help. The article notes that scientists are increasingly willing to consider the possibility of civilizations transcending light speed for star travel, even if they don't fully believe in UFO visitation.

"Making Communion With Another World" - New Books on Humanoids

People Weekly (May 11, 1987) discusses "Making Communion With Another World," highlighting three new books suggesting humanoids are present. The article reiterates Whitley Strieber's account from his book "Communion," describing his terrifying encounter with aliens and subsequent examination. Strieber aims to dispel the stigma and fear associated with these experiences, offering relief that others have shared similar encounters. The article also mentions "Intruders" by Budd Hopkins and "Light Years" by Gary Kinder, which presents the controversial story of Eduard Meier. The growing interest in UFOlogy is noted, with an increase in reports of encounters with "creepy travelers."

"Outta this world: No one laughing about UFOs" - Belleville Sightings

The Milwaukee Journal (May 26, 1987) reports on UFO sightings in Belleville, Wisconsin, where residents like police officer Glen Kazmar, state employee Lavonne Freidig, and surveyor Harvey Funseth have reported seeing large, segmented objects. Unlike other areas where UFO reports are often met with snickers, Belleville is taking the sightings seriously due to the credibility of the witnesses. The Center for UFO Studies in Chicago has investigated these accounts and plans to present its findings. Local residents express a belief that something unusual occurred, with some speculating about government experimentation. The article also touches on the commercialization of the sightings, with "Belleville UFO" buttons and T-shirts being popular.

Bibliography and Related Topics

A bibliography titled "Close encounters of 15,000 kinds" is listed, detailing over 15,000 items related to unidentified flying objects and alien contact. The two-volume work covers a wide range of materials, including magazine articles, books, periodicals, government documents, and more. Related topics include nocturnal lights, ancient astronauts, hollow-earth literature, and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue consistently explores the phenomenon of UFO abductions, presenting personal accounts, research findings, and public reactions. There's a clear emphasis on the credibility of witnesses and the need for serious investigation, contrasting with historical government secrecy and scientific skepticism. The articles highlight the psychological impact of these experiences and the growing public awareness and interest in UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the scientific community and governments to address the phenomenon rather than dismiss it, while acknowledging the deeply unsettling nature of the claims.

This issue of the South Wales Evening Post Swansea, dated April 30, 1987, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO buzzed us says family," detailing a close encounter reported by the Bates family. Alongside this, a secondary headline "Documents contain proof 'flying saucers do exist'" by Wayne F. Yourstone introduces claims by UFO researcher Robert Hastings. The issue also includes articles from The Woodbridge News and The Dallas Morning Star News, exploring the renewed public interest in UFOs and historical sightings.

UFO Buzzed Us Says Family (South Wales Evening Post Swansea, April 30, 1987)

This article by Antony Harris reports on a sighting by the Bates family in Upper Killay, Swansea. Four-year-old Hannah Bates first noticed an unidentified flying object hovering silently about 50 feet above their home. Her mother, Mrs. Jenny Bates, corroborated the sighting, describing the object as small, about the size of a dining room table, with four green lights on the bottom. Hannah described it as 'ghosties.' Mrs. Bates stated there was a rushing of air but no noise. The family had just returned home when the encounter occurred, with Mrs. Bates noticing the reflection of green lights on her car. Swansea police and airport authorities reported no UFO sightings overnight.

Documents Contain Proof 'Flying Saucers Do Exist' (The Woodbridge News, April 24, 1987)

Wayne F. Yourstone reports on UFO researcher Robert Hastings' presentation to Middlesex County College students. Hastings claims that government documents, released under the Freedom of Information Act in the late 1970s, prove that other life forms exist and that 'flying saucers do exist.' He asserts that despite repeated denials by the Pentagon, there is evidence of extraterrestrial activity. Hastings presented a slide show of documented UFO sightings from the late 1940s to 1979. He noted the first wave of sightings in the US occurred in April 1947. Official explanations at the time included solar reflections, swamp gas, and temperature inversions. Hastings stated that the CIA, U.S. Air Force, National Security Council, and FBI have conducted secret investigations, and there are frequent reports of sightings at military bases and nuclear facilities.

Documents Cont'd (Page 2)

Hastings further elaborated on government documents, mentioning that from the mid-1970s to 1975, missile silos were a focus of reported sightings. He discussed a 1977 incident at Montana's Malmstrom Air Force Base where radar detected an unidentified object and personnel reported seeing a 100-foot diameter sphere. Hastings also referenced an FBI document from March 22, 1950, detailing the discovery of three unidentified crash sites in New Mexico in 1949, each containing three dead creatures approximately three feet tall, though information on the recovery operation is lacking.

Interest in UFOs Rises (Dallas Morning Star News, May 8, 1987)

By Dave Ferman, this article explores the renewed public interest in UFOs, noting that the term "flying saucer" was coined in 1947 after pilot Kenneth Arnold's sighting. The article highlights the popularity of books like Whitley Strieber's "Communion" and Bud Hopkins' "Intruders," which deal with alien abductions, and Gary Kinder's "Light Years." Experts suggest that people are more receptive to the idea of extraterrestrial life. Jerry Decker of MUFON Metroplex notes an increase in their mailing list, attributing it to people being more intelligent and realizing there's intelligent life in the universe. Rick Schneider believes media like "E.T." and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" have made people less fearful. Shirley MacLaine's book "Out On A Limb," detailing her experiences with alien spirits, is also cited as contributing to this acceptance. George Eberhart of the Hynek Center for UFO Studies notes that while hard evidence is scarce, testimonials are abundant. Robert Gribble of the National UFO Reporting Center points to a Japanese pilot's sighting near Alaska as piquing interest, leading to more reports of older sightings. Walter Andrus Jr. of MUFON states that people now know where to go to report encounters and are coming forward with past experiences.

Unlikely Flying Objects (Aberdeen Evening Express, May 2, 1987)

This page features an image of a model flying saucer made to the exact specifications of Sir George King, founder of The Aetherius Society, after he claimed physical contact with it.

Survey (By Allan Gill)

This section details the experience of a Japanese pilot on flight JL 1628 over Alaska on November 17, who reported being tracked by 'walnut-shaped' UFOs for 50 minutes. The pilot described the objects as 'space-ships' that stopped in front of the plane, and the crew felt heat from their lights. The sighting was corroborated by independent radar systems and is documented in a 320-page report by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The article also mentions the London-based Aetherius Society's campaign for more official UFO information over 30 years, with Dr. John Holder, a staff member, discussing recent information and a UFO Hotline that received 50 sightings in its first three days. A public opinion poll conducted by the society revealed that 72% of people believe in life on other planets, 74% want more official information released, and 50% believe some UFOs are extraterrestrial spacecraft.

Some of the UFO Sightings Recently Reported to the Aetherius Society London Hotline

• Spain's Costa Blanca, 1978: London journalist Anne Shepherd reported seeing a large object, the size of three double-decker buses, moving at incredible speed for 30 minutes.
• Sutton Coldfield, 1986: Three Birmingham nurses reported a cigar-shaped object moving noiselessly with lights underneath. RAF Lynham and Birmingham Airport confirmed detecting the UFO.
• Salisbury, 1978: Environmental consultant and private pilot Robert Owen reported seeing four UFOs, described as golf-ball sized at arm's length and moving very fast, which suddenly disappeared. Air traffic control confirmed a Dan Air pilot also reported seeing the objects.
• Surrey, 1981: A young man reported seeing a 'dark, silvery object hovering above the road, which landed in a field. He described it as saucer-shaped with observation windows and claimed to have seen a humanoid figure in silhouette.

Aliens

Dr. Holder discusses the Ministry of Defence's UFO department, which admits to having 100 cases annually but has destroyed files on sightings prior to 1962. He notes that common sightings are of cigar or saucer-shaped craft. Regarding alien descriptions, Dr. Holder states there is a vast range, but when they come to Earth, they tend to use a humanoid structure, typically around seven feet tall, clean-shaven, with blue or brown eyes, and dressed in a one-piece suit. Sir George King, founder of The Aetherius Society, claims to have communicated with aliens telepathically, with messages lasting up to 90 minutes, covering topics from nuclear war to ecology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent reporting of UFO sightings, the alleged government cover-up of information, and the growing public acceptance of the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one that supports the investigation into UFO phenomena and encourages the release of more official information, highlighting witness testimonies and researcher claims as credible evidence.