APCIC - Vol 12 No 09 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 12 No. 9
Date: September 1987
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER

This issue of UFO NEWS delves into various aspects of the UFO phenomenon, featuring reports on sightings, alleged alien abductions, and government involvement. The cover art depicts stylized flying saucers, setting the tone for the content within.

Key Articles and Reports

Poland's Army Paper Reports UFO Sightings

The Houston Chronicle reports on an article from Poland's official army newspaper, "Zolnierz Wolnosci" (Soldier of Freedom). The newspaper detailed sightings of mysterious objects by military pilots, described as flying silently at high speeds. One pilot reported seeing an object pass by "about 60 yards below me with a plume of bright fire trailing it," noting the absence of sound, which was surprising for a craft that was not a jet. Another pilot described a UFO with a "strange shape," an "oblong cylinder," that seemed to toy with his jet fighter before speeding away. A third incident involved two pilots being ordered to intercept an object that was "something that did not resemble any-thing flying in the air."

British Jet Crew Spots UFO Over Soviet Union

The Los Angeles Herald Examiner and the International Herald Tribune report on an incident where a British Airways Boeing 747 jetliner diverted its course over the Soviet Union to avoid an unidentified flying object. The crew described seeing an object with "twinkling lights" that flew directly toward them and then vanished quickly. First Officer Anthony Colin stated, "It was definitely not an aircraft." While some suggested a satellite re-entering the atmosphere, the crew's experience was deemed unexplainable by conventional means.

UFOs Cited in Pentagon Documents

Reuters reports that the UFO Information Service, led by Dale Goudie, released Pentagon documents detailing UFO sightings by soldiers at U.S. military bases. One document from September 1980 describes security guards at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico witnessing a "disc-shaped object" that exhibited unusual maneuvers. The guards, one a former helicopter mechanic, concluded it was not a helicopter. Goudie suggested a government cover-up to prevent public panic, while skeptics like Philip Klass maintain such documents do not definitively prove alien existence.

Close Encounters: Books Allege UFO Abductions

An article by Scott Sublett in The Washington Times discusses the surge in books about UFO abductions, including "Communion" by Whitley Strieber and "Intruders" by Budd Hopkins. The article details a hypnosis session with a woman named Leigh, who suspects she has a history of alien abductions. Hopkins, an UFO investigator, helps her recall memories of encounters with alien beings. The accounts often involve "missing time" and a sense of being manipulated. The article notes the similarity of these accounts across different individuals, even those unfamiliar with UFO literature. It also touches upon the physical descriptions of aliens and the alleged purpose of these encounters, such as genetic experiments to breed hybrids.

'Evidence' Shows Uncle Sam is Also Interested in UFOs

This section from The Independent (London) and other sources discusses the government's historical involvement with UFOs. It references the "Roswell Incident" of 1947, where an alleged flying saucer crash was initially reported by the Air Force, then changed to a "weather balloon." A "Top Secret" briefing paper from 1952, allegedly from the Majestic-12 group, details the Roswell crash and the recovery of alien bodies, emphasizing the need for strict security precautions to prevent public panic. The article also mentions NASA's official stance, stating they have no position on UFOs and no office dedicated to their study, though they are involved in SETI.

What Was Soaring Over Citra?

The Ocala Star-Banner reports on a UFO sighting in Citra, Florida, investigated by the Mufon UFO Network. Witnesses, including a sheriff's deputy, described a silent, brightly lighted object, about the size of a sedan with no wings, hovering at treetop level. It had headlights and colored lights. Deputy Jay Manifold observed the object moving faster than a car and noted it made no noise. The sheriff's department contacted military and utility officials, who had no equipment or aircraft in the area at the time. While some suggested it might be a legitimate aircraft, witnesses insisted it was not a plane or helicopter.

UFO Sighting Causes Stir

This article from the St. Petersburg Times continues the report from Citra, Florida. Witnesses described the object as looking like a "large Volkswagen" with lights and protruding wheels. It emitted a beam from underneath and shot something out of its back that looked like sparks. The object was described as moving slowly and then disappearing at high speed. The sheriff's department's investigation found no military or utility activity in the area, and officials could not identify the object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS are the prevalence of UFO sightings across different countries and contexts (military, civilian aviation), the growing focus on alien abduction narratives, and the persistent question of government knowledge and potential cover-ups regarding UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these reports and investigations, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions while acknowledging the skepticism from some quarters. The magazine seems to lean towards validating the experiences of witnesses and UFOlogists, highlighting the congruence of accounts and the alleged lack of conventional explanations for many sightings.

This issue of the Chicago Tribune, dated July 9, 1987, features a prominent cover story titled "UFOs light up skies, but only questions are left hovering," by Rogers Worthington. The article details a series of UFO sightings reported near Belleville, Wisconsin, in early 1987, including unusual lights and cigar-shaped objects. The issue also includes several other articles and columns related to UFOs, alien abductions, and the broader phenomenon of ufology, drawing from various newspapers such as The New Orleans Times Picayune/States Item, San Antonio Light, The New York Times, Bucks Herald Aylesbury, Cincinnati Enquirer, and Seattle Times.

Belleville, Wisconsin Sightings

The main article by Rogers Worthington focuses on UFO reports from Belleville, Wisconsin. On January 16, 1987, police officer Glen Kazmar and his partner Jeff Furseth reported seeing a cluster of intense, flashing red, blue, and white lights arranged horizontally, which remained motionless before moving southwest and disappearing. This sighting was corroborated by a Dane County sheriff's deputy. Subsequent reports on March 6 described cigar-shaped objects, some with objects beneath them, and some disappearing into a cloud of vapor. Lavonne Freidig and Harvey Funseth also reported seeing a shiny khaki-tinted object and a similar object with blinking, strobe-like lights, respectively. The article notes that these reports have not resulted in ridicule, with some residents even embracing the "Belleville UFO" identity. An investigation by the Chicago-based Center for UFO Studies, led by Donald Schmitt, concluded that the Belleville reports were legitimate UFO sightings after ruling out conventional explanations.

'Nightmare from 'Nightline''

Frank Schneider's column, "Nightmare from 'Nightline'," recounts his experience watching a "Nightline" program hosted by Ted Koppel that discussed unidentified flying objects. Schneider expresses initial boredom and skepticism but becomes engaged when a woman describes her petrification by a strange, whirling, beeping sound that landed in her backyard. She claims to have been captured by creatures who tortured her with magical electronic devices in their spaceship, leaving her with terrible headaches. A scientist on the program suggests the government is hiding UFO information in a secret vault. Schneider concludes by questioning the woman's account and the nature of space ship sounds.

Chris Marrou Column

Chris Marrou's column, "They saw a thing coming out of a sky," discusses the common human desire to see UFOs and the tendency to misinterpret natural phenomena. Bryan Snow, director of the San Antonio College Planetarium, explains that many reported UFOs are actually planets like Venus or meteors. He notes that Venus, when appearing as the evening star, can cause numerous calls to the planetarium. Snow also touches upon autokinesis, a phenomenon where the brain perceives motion when there is no external reference point. Sam Barden, an astronomer, shares an account of a Soviet booster rocket re-entering the atmosphere. Both Snow and Barden believe we are not alone in the universe but state there is no concrete evidence to support UFO visitation. Marrou concludes by encouraging people to enjoy the view and consider natural explanations for unusual sights.

'Group Therapy For the Victims Of Space Aliens'

William E. Geist's article from The New York Times reports on group therapy sessions for individuals who claim to have been abducted by aliens. Budd Hopkins, author of "Missing Time" and "Intruders," runs these meetings, which he describes as a "severe, nightmarish thing." Participants share experiences of being taken aboard spaceships, undergoing physical examinations by "gray people," and sometimes having skin samples removed. The article highlights that claiming abduction is becoming a status symbol in some circles, with people envying those who have had such experiences. Rosemary Osnato and Helen Wheels share their personal abduction accounts. The article also touches on the increasing public interest in UFOs, with conventions, books, and media coverage contributing to a surge in sightings and abduction claims.

'Was glowing object a UFO?'

This short piece from the Bucks Herald Aylesbury reports on a sighting by Sidney Coomber, who saw a large, red, glowing object in the sky near Aylesbury, England. He described it as resembling a mushroom and noted its rapid disappearance, estimating its speed at thousands of miles an hour.

'UFO' and 'Interest in aliens out of this world'

The Cincinnati Enquirer features two articles on UFOs. The first, "UFO," by ENQUIRER NEWS SERVICES, commemorates the 40th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting, which coined the term "flying saucer." It notes the resurgence of interest in UFOs, with aliens appearing in commercials and popular culture. The article discusses claims of government cover-ups, particularly regarding the alleged Majestic-12 documents and the Roswell Incident. Leonard H. Stringfield, a UFO researcher, believes the government has hidden evidence of extraterrestrial encounters. The second article, "Interest in aliens out of this world," quotes Ben Bova, who describes the urge to believe in aliens as almost religious, filling the void left by traditional gods. Dr. Bruce Maccabee, a Navy physicist and UFO researcher, states that "Some sort of things have been flying around for decades, and they aren't ours." The article also highlights the demand for UFO books, such as Whitley Strieber's "Communion," and discusses the shift from sightings in the 1950s to personal encounter narratives in recent books.

'The Skeptical Inquirer' and UFO CON'T

This section from The Skeptical Inquirer features Philip J. Klass, a UFO debunker, who dismisses claims of UFOs and government cover-ups as "outright hoax." Jerome Clark, vice president of the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies, notes the current interest is happening in the absence of a major sighting wave, calling the situation "quiet, too quiet." The article includes photographs of alleged UFOs from 1967 and 1966. The "UFO CON'T" section continues with accounts from Bonnie S. Miller, who saw a brassy-colored object in the 1950s, and Ted Ogden, who witnessed a silver cigar-shaped object. Charles Wilhelm of the Ohio UFO Investigators League states that 90 percent of cases can be explained, but acknowledges that hypnosis sessions suggest some women claiming abduction were not lying.

'UFOria' and UFO CON'T

An article from The Seattle Times, "UFOria," by Bill Dietrich, marks the 40th anniversary of the Kenneth Arnold sighting. It notes the persistent public interest in UFOs and the rise of "ufology." The article mentions several Seattle-based UFO organizations, including the UFO Information Service International, the National UFO Reporting Center, and the UFO Contact Center International. It also references a group called Tacoma's New Age Foundation. The "UFO CON'T" section continues the discussion on UFOs, mentioning the upcoming New Age convention in Pierce College to commemorate Arnold's sighting and Wayne Aho's prediction that 1987 will be a breakthrough year for public acceptance of UFOs and New Age beliefs.

Writers back probes

This section continues the discussion on UFOs and alien abductions. It details Whitley Strieber's book "Communion," describing his alleged abduction experience. Budd Hopkins' book "Intruders" is mentioned, along with his theory of humanoid aliens conducting genetic experiments. Gary Kinder's book "Light Years" is also discussed. The article highlights that these authors are seeking investigation rather than just acceptance. Strieber describes his experience as a "spiritual experience" that has increased his awareness of himself. The section also includes a quote from Dr. John Gliedman, a research psychologist, who believes Strieber is telling the truth.

Believers describe alien beings differently

This article explores the diverse descriptions of alien beings reported by abductees. It notes that the belief in flying saucers has evolved into a mythology, with some seeing UFOs as a means to save humanity from war. The article quotes Wayne Aho, who believes that "Intelligences other than us are concerned and trying to awaken the Earth people to a new consciousness." It also touches on the complexity of the mind and the need for investigation, as suggested by Strieber.

Space visitors? Read the arguments

This section presents arguments for and against the existence of extraterrestrial visitors. PRO arguments include the large number of reported sightings by credible witnesses, the vastness of the universe suggesting other civilizations, and the increase in sightings coinciding with radio and television transmissions. It also points to the consistency in descriptions of UFOs and occupants, and the government's alleged withholding of documents. CON arguments include the high percentage of prosaic explanations for sightings, the immense distances between stars making interstellar travel difficult, and the suspicious acceleration of UFO sightings with increased human technology and media attention. The lack of incontestable photographic evidence or artifacts is also cited.

Writer describes his abduction by aliens

Bill Dietrich's piece describes Whitley Strieber's book "Communion" as a "supreme horror story." It details Strieber's account of being transported to a spaceship and subjected to medical procedures by alien beings. The article questions whether these are feverish imaginings or reality, quoting Dr. John Gliedman, who believes Strieber is telling the truth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the persistent public fascination with UFOs and alien encounters, the debate between believers and skeptics, and the role of media and popular culture in shaping perceptions. There is a clear emphasis on personal accounts of sightings and abductions, with a notable trend towards books detailing these experiences. The articles present a range of perspectives, from those who firmly believe in UFOs and alien visitation to those who advocate for scientific skepticism and prosaic explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on the phenomenon and the ongoing debate, rather than taking a definitive side, though the sheer volume of coverage suggests a recognition of the public's sustained interest in the topic.

This issue of the International Herald Tribune, dated July 9, 1987, features a prominent article titled "Freed by a UFO Crew? Try Group Therapy" by William E. Geist, exploring the phenomenon of alien abductions and the support groups formed for those who claim to have experienced them. The issue also includes articles from regional newspapers like the Doncaster Star Yorkshire, Tucson Citizen, Yorkshire Post Leeds, Western Daily Press Bristol, and Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph, all focusing on UFO sightings and related phenomena across the UK and USA.

Freeding by a UFO Crew? Try Group Therapy

William E. Geist's article delves into the experiences of individuals who claim to have been abducted by aliens. He introduces Dr. Robert Klein and 'sympathetic skeptic' Gliedman, who attest to the sanity of abductees like Whitley Strieber, author of "Communion." While not necessarily confirming alien abductions, they suggest possible explanations ranging from psychological mechanisms to sensitivity to environmental changes. Professor Michael Swords is cited as finding Strieber's evidence 'not compelling' but finds Budd Hopkins' "Intruders" more persuasive due to similar cases and physical evidence. Gliedman posits that abduction tales reflect societal fears about nuclear and environmental dilemmas, likening the experience to a religious one without redemption. He stresses the need for scientific study, estimating a minimum of $1 million would be required, and criticizes the scientific establishment's reluctance due to potential ridicule. He emphasizes treating abductees with respect, comparing their experience to a 'rape' and calling it cruel to dismiss them as liars.

UFO 'Close Encounter' in Barnsley

Graham Walker reports on a survey by the UFO study group The Aetherius Society in Barnsley, UK, claiming one in seven people have seen a 'flying saucer' and 60% believe in visitors from other planets. The society organized a conference and set up a 24-hour hotline to record sightings. Dr. Paul White, an engineering designer and doctorate of theology, suggests more people would see UFOs if they looked up, citing his own sightings, including a Red Arrows-style UFO display and a mystery spacecraft over the English Channel. Hazel Moody, founder of the Barnsley Aetherius Society HQ, claims a circular, moon-sized spaceship with portholes hovered over homes for 20 minutes.

Arizona's History of Sightings

J. Randall Jue's article for the Tucson Citizen details Arizona's history of UFO incidents over 40 years. It recounts a 1955 sighting of a 'disk machine' that emitted a beam of light, a 1962 incident involving a light near a Titan II missile silo, and a 1967 sighting by a 14-year-old boy with corresponding ground swirls. Pearl Christiansen reported seeing a huge silver circular object and a shiny gold-colored object in 1968. The article highlights the Travis Walton abduction case in 1975, where Walton claimed to have been taken aboard a UFO and held by three beings. It also mentions a 1985 sighting near Tucson International Airport, where FAA radar operators tracked numerous unidentified aircraft, described by witnesses as cigar-shaped with lights.

Yorkshire: A UFO Hotspot

The Yorkshire Post reports that Yorkshire has become a hotspot for UFO sightings, prompting the Yorkshire Unidentified Flying Object Network to launch a 24-hour hotline. Philip Mantle, the hotline co-ordinator, states that Yorkshire consistently has a high number of sightings. The network compiles observations for potential case studies. Mantle believes thousands have experienced 'Encounters of the Third Kind' and encourages people to report sightings confidentially. He notes that while many reports are explained by mundane causes, others remain mysterious, citing a 1976 CIA report about a fighter pilot chasing a UFO above Tehran.

Mystery Lights in Sky Baffle Police

An article from the Northamptonshire Evening Telegraph describes a MYSTERY object with flashing lights spotted hovering over Kettering. Witnesses described it as a dark blur with flashing lights and an engine noise. Kettering police had no record of calls about the UFO. Similar sightings are reported from Rothwell.

UFO Buff Challenges NASA

The Croydon Midweek Post features Norman Larence, a UFO enthusiast who has established OFSEF (Organisation for Facts on Space Exploration Findings) to challenge NASA's alleged cover-up of UFO information. Larence aims to challenge NASA by 1992, citing numerous sightings, including a report of a Jumbo cargo plane being buzzed by a cigar-shaped craft that interfered with its systems.

Fiery Object in San Diego Sky

Dozen of citizens in the San Diego area reported seeing a fireball falling from the skies, which authorities suggested might be a meteorite. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory determined it was not a man-made space object.

Flying Saucer Theory as Corn Circles Return

Philip Bowern reports on mysterious circles in cornfields in Wiltshire, UK, coinciding with sightings of a weird red light. These circles are speculated to be landing marks from spacemen, and the light could be their flying saucer. While some farmers suggest hoaxes or crows, the light remains unexplained, and the Army denied any exercises were conducted on the night of the sighting.

UFO with Black Lines and a Lid!

The Wisbech Standard reports on Walsoken pensioner Mrs Eva Mann's sighting of an unidentified flying object. She described a fascinating, extremely bright light that moved, changed shape, and appeared as a mushroom with a smaller lid shape on top. She is appealing for anyone else who may have witnessed the object to come forward.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different geographical locations, the persistent public interest in extraterrestrial phenomena, and the ongoing efforts by individuals and groups to investigate and document these events. There is a clear emphasis on witness testimony, the challenges of scientific investigation, and the occasional suggestion of government secrecy or cover-ups. The editorial stance, as reflected in the articles, is generally one of reporting on these phenomena, acknowledging the mystery, and giving voice to witnesses and researchers, while also presenting skeptical viewpoints and potential mundane explanations.