APCIC - Vol 12 No 11 - 1987

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 12 No. 11
Date: November 1987
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Country: USA

Contents

This issue of UFO NEWS, published by the Aerial Phenomenon Clipping Information Center, delves into a variety of UFO-related topics, with a particular focus on recent sightings and alleged encounters.

County Hotbed of UFO Sightings (By Jeff Mayers, The State Journal)

This article highlights Madison, Wisconsin, and specifically Dane County, as a current "UFO capital" due to an unusually high concentration of sightings. Don Schmitt, co-director of the J. Allen Hynek Center for UFO Studies, notes that about two dozen of the 30 Wisconsin sightings this year have occurred in Dane County. While most sightings are eventually explained, Schmitt acknowledges that some unidentified flying objects might be operated by alien beings. Mark Slovak, a research astronomer at UW-Madison, expresses skepticism about alien visitation, questioning their motives and suggesting that most UFO reports have plausible explanations, such as atmospheric conditions or misidentified celestial bodies. He attributes the increase in reports to a "herd effect" following publicized incidents.

A New Wave of UFO Mania (By Christopher Hanson)

This piece discusses the resurgence of interest in UFOs and alien abduction claims, citing popular books like Budd Hopkins's "Intruders," Gary Kinder's "Light Years," and Whitley Strieber's "Communion." Elisabeth Scharlatt, editor of "Intruders," emphasizes the serious nature of the claims. The article touches upon alleged government cover-ups, with UFO researchers suggesting a "cosmic Watergate" where the US government conceals visits by space aliens. Budd Hopkins is mentioned for interviewing over 140 people who claim to have been abducted by aliens and subjected to medical experiments. Phillip Klass's offer of $10,000 to any confirmed abduction victim who reported to the FBI is also noted.

UFO Sightings Set County Folk Abuzz With Speculation (By Clint Williams, Atlanta Bureau)

This report from Sylvania, Georgia, details a series of UFO sightings in Screven County. The local Rotary Club meeting was dominated by discussions of UFOs. The Alcorn family reported seeing a large, metallic, boxcar-like object with red and white lights hovering over their property. The craft moved silently and disappeared with a bright flash. The sighting was corroborated by other family members and neighbors. Three indentations in the grass were found the next morning. The incident attracted local media attention, with dozens of curious people visiting the area. Shirley and Mac Mahaffey, owners of radio station WSYL, also reported seeing the craft. Mrs. Mahaffey described the object's lights as "the reddest red you can imagine" and noted its incredibly fast movement across the sky. The phenomenon was also witnessed by Margie Scott and others driving by.

UFOs Sighted in Torbay (Herald Express, Torquay Devon)

This brief report from the UK notes two separate UFO sightings in South Devon. One man saw a long flying object with lights over Ogwell, and another reported a brightly lit object performing "extraordinary manoeuvres" over Torquay harbour.

1 Visit Makes Man UFO Believer (By Kathy Jumper, Press Register Reporter)

This article focuses on Charles Hickson, a Pascagoula, Mississippi, resident who claims to have met elephant-skinned aliens aboard a spaceship 13 years prior. Hickson has written a book, "The UFO Contact in Pascagoula," and hosts a call-in TV show. He recounts the experience of being taken aboard a craft with three robot-like creatures, describing a hissing sound and a pulsating light. He and his fishing buddy, Calvin Parker, were examined by the aliens. Hickson states that he has had many subsequent experiences and plans to write another book. He mentions attending an international symposium in Washington, D.C., on UFOs. Dr. Neil P. Rowell, a professor of physics, dismisses UFOs as akin to astrology and wrestling matches, stating that most sightings can be explained and that there is no evidence of extraterrestrial life visiting Earth. However, he concedes that if hundreds of people saw something, it might warrant belief. He also mentions a government program scanning for signals and notes that sightings are often reported when planets like Venus are prominent.

UFO MYSTERY DEEPENS (Herald Express, Torquay Devon)

This follow-up report on the Torbay UFO sightings indicates that the phenomenon has spread to other areas like Chudleigh and Dawlish Warren. Brian Lee, a rest home manager, described seeing two strange stars that became multiple lights, forming an H-shape before splitting. He emphasized the object's silence and unusual movement. A housewife in Ellacombe described the lights as "certainly wasn't normal." A sales co-ordinator from Chudleigh also witnessed the UFO. Walt Andus, national director of MUFON, stated that most reports are mundane, but the team concluded the craft in the Screven County case did not land, as there were no damaged vegetation or dehydrated soil. Andus is skeptical of sightings reported after July 14, suggesting Shirley Mahaffey, a radio station owner, may be seeking publicity. Julis Benton, a Savannah astronomer, notes that such events often have a "snowball effect."

We join our heroes spaced out in Ohio (By Alfred Lubrano, Staff Writer)

This article is the first in a series about "Startling But True Phenomena" featuring Cuyahoga Jones and Nikon Dave, who travel to investigate UFO stories. Their first destination is Ohio, known as a "UFO corridor." They interview Leonard Stringfield, a former Air Force intelligence officer, who claims to have spoken with 28 firsthand witnesses who saw alien crafts and bodies, suggesting that Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has been involved with investigating aliens since 1966, with up to 30 bodies allegedly stored there by 1966. Stringfield references the Roswell incident and the alleged transfer of aliens and their craft to Building 18 at Wright-Pat. He also mentions interviewing a doctor who performed an autopsy on aliens. The article notes the existence of a purported memo from "Majestic 12" (MJ 12) to President-elect Dwight D. Eisenhower, referencing the Roswell incident and alien transfers. The reporters visit Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and are met by a public relations officer who dismisses the idea of the government possessing flying saucers, stating that such a secret could not be hidden. The article concludes by noting the difficulty in obtaining proof for UFO claims, as information is often attributed to government secrecy.

What was it they saw, anyway? (By Sara Lamb, Journal Times)

This piece connects a Waunakee policeman's UFO sighting description with that of a 13-year-old boy, Nicholas Trudeau, who saw a "moon-shaped object" with red and blue lights on June 27. Trudeau described the object as a perfect sphere, the size of a "giant beach ball," glowing in the middle, with an antenna-like projection. He watched it for about two minutes before it darted into a cloud and traveled at high speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS include the prevalence of UFO sightings across different regions (Wisconsin, Georgia, UK), the persistent claims of alien abduction and encounters, and the ongoing debate surrounding potential government cover-ups of UFO phenomena. The magazine appears to present a platform for UFO researchers and witnesses, while also including skeptical viewpoints. The editorial stance, as represented by the publisher A.P.C.I.C. and its correspondents, seems to be one of active investigation and reporting on aerial phenomena, encouraging readers to share their experiences.

This collection of articles from various publications in August and September 1987 explores a range of UFO-related topics, from personal sightings and alleged alien encounters to government investigations and the work of UFO research organizations.

Key Articles and Reports

'WHAT WAS IT THEY SAW CONT' (Page 1)

This section continues a report on Nicholas Trudeau's UFO sighting. Trudeau described an object that changed colors from red to blue to black and was associated with a strange cloud. He stated that the object was visible for about 20 seconds before disappearing, and the cloud then disintegrated. Trudeau, who has studied UFOs, believes what he saw was not a balloon or airplane exhaust. He is sending his notes to the Center for UFO Investigation.

TRAVEL NEWS AND NOTES (Page 1)

Carol Martinez reports on a planned UFO tour to Peru and Brazil from April 15 to May 5, 1988. The tour, priced at $2,600 per person, will take participants to locations known for UFO sightings and allow them to meet with UFO organizations and individuals with UFO experiences. Contact information for Bill Matthias is provided.

HERALD EXPRESS - SEP 30 1987 (Page 1)

This article features Clifford Doney, an 11-year-old schoolboy from Torquay, who reportedly drew a picture of a UFO he saw over South Devon. He described a circular, brightly colored object with no sound, illuminated by bright lights.

HERALD EXPRESS - OCT 1987 (Page 1)

This brief report mentions 'Odd spots' and describes a sighting by Mrs. Millie Swann of Paignton. She and her husband saw a cone-shaped object, red with grooving, hovering for about six minutes before disappearing.

'A tale out of this world' - BATH & WILTS CHRONICLE SEP 16 1987 (Page 2)

This is a review of Gary Kinder's book 'Light Years: The Best Documented UFO Case Ever'. The review discusses the case of Eduard Meier, who claimed multiple encounters with extraterrestrials from the DAL Universe. The reviewer notes the detailed examination of Meier's photographs and tape recordings by experts, who have not been able to prove them fake. The review also touches upon the 'followers' of Meier who drink heavily, suggesting a possible alternative explanation for Meier's retreats into the forest. The reviewer expresses a somewhat cynical view of aliens, describing them as 'prigs' who are serene, clean, orderly, wise, efficient, and peaceable, lacking human passions. The article concludes by suggesting that the belief in a better universe is a post-Christian phenomenon.

'Some claim UFO crashed near Corona 41 years ago' - TX-D58 LUBBOCK AVALANCHE JOURNAL JUNE 28 1987 (Page 3)

This article investigates the alleged 1947 UFO crash near Corona, New Mexico. It recounts the story of rancher 'Mac' Brazel finding metallic debris and the subsequent involvement of the Roswell Army Air Force Base and government investigators. The article mentions the book 'The Roswell Incident' by Charles Berlitz and the claims of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) that the government covered up the event. Ralph Heick, a Roswell native and UFO researcher, is quoted as believing the story and accusing the government of a massive coverup, citing Project Bluebook as a farce. Heick also suggests that aliens are concerned about Earth's environment and nuclear weapons and may reveal themselves if the truth is not made public.

'Group says government covered up UFO crash' - Continued (Page 4)

This continuation of the Roswell incident article includes claims from Ralph Heick and Frank Joyce, a former radio newsman who broke the initial stories. Heick asserts that the government has documentation to debunk UFOs and that at least six species of intelligent beings have visited Earth. Joyce declined to discuss details of the incident, stating it cannot be understood without all the documents. Heick believes that independent investigations will eventually force the government to admit alien visitations.

'UFO comments lacked basis' - WI-D33 WAUKESHA FREEMAN AUG 8 1987 (Page 4)

This is a letter to the editor from Richard W. Heiden of Milwaukee, criticizing Mark Slovak of CSICOP for commenting on a Waunakee UFO sighting without speaking to the witnesses. Heiden describes CSICOP as rabidly anti-paranormal and details a past scandal involving the organization's attempt to disprove studies by French neoastrologers.

'More say 'We saw UFO'' - HERALD EXPRESS TORQUAY, DEVON SEP 25 1987 (Page 4)

This brief report notes additional UFO sightings in South Devon, with one in Torquay and another in Newton Abbot. A woman in Newton Abbot described an object with six lights in a circle that was stationary before moving off. Another sighting was reported in Torquay.

'Area Group Probes ‘Flashes In The Sky’' - PA-D31 GREENSBURG TRIBUNE REVIEW AUG-13 1987 (Page 5)

This article focuses on Stan Gordon of the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained, who investigates UFO sightings. It details a mysterious spectral display observed over Westmoreland County a year prior, initially speculated to be a fireball or rocket experiment, but later attributed to a Japanese rocket launch using a new fuel that created a vaporizing cloud. Gordon emphasizes the credibility of witnesses and the need for serious study of strange phenomena, noting an upsurge in UFO and Bigfoot sightings. The article also mentions specific sightings in Fayette County and Clarion County, including an object that changed shape and ascended rapidly.

'Eerie lights spark UFO hunt' - COLORADO PRESS MAY 18 1987 (Page 7)

Lt. Don Williams of the Glenwood Springs Police Department reports that dozens of residents, including police officers, saw bright, multicolored lights in the sky. Officials at NORAD and NOAA had no explanation, and an Air Force study on UFOs ended in 1969. The lights were described as varying in color and appearing about 11 p.m., vanishing within 30 minutes. Some speculated they could be solar reflections from satellites or headlights.

'Resident recalls sighting of an UFO' - MT. PLEASANT, TX TRIBUNE JUN 9 1987 (Page 7)

Roy L. Norman recounts his UFO sighting in the mid-1970s near Mount Pleasant, Texas. He described a flat-based object with a raised dome and a light underneath, which hovered and then ascended rapidly, leaving a smoke trail. He also reported a strange beeping sound on his radio during the sighting.

'Residents report UFO near Ocala' - NAPLES NEWS JUN-19-1987 FLORIDA (Page 8)

This article reports on an unidentified flying object with a maze of lights seen hovering over treetop level in the Citra area, near Ocala, Florida. A sheriff's deputy also witnessed the object, describing it as having red, green, and white lights and moving at a high rate of speed toward Gainesville. Military installations had no aircraft in the area, and the investigation was classified as a UFO sighting.

'Kidnappings, policy occupy 'UFOlogists'' - WASHINGTON (AP) DAILY NEWSUN SUN CITY JUN 27 1987 (Page 8)

This article discusses researchers' beliefs that the government is trying to keep UFO information under wraps, referencing the 'Majestic 12' group and a declassified letter from 1954. It highlights two key issues for a weekend session: the government's response to UFOs and reports of alien abductions.

'Extraterrestrial reports raise earthly questions' - IN-034 INDIANAPOLIS NEWS AUG 7 1987 (Page 9 & 10)

This two-part article focuses on the book 'Intruders' by Budd Hopkins, which chronicles alleged UFO abductions in the Davis family. The book suggests an ongoing genetic study by aliens, including artificial insemination and confiscation of fetuses. The article quotes 'Kathie Davis,' the subject of the book, who expresses uncertainty but believes something warrants investigation. It also mentions R. Leo Sprinkle, a psychology professor, and Douglas Curran, a journalist, who have encountered people who believe they have been abducted. The article details specific alleged incidents, including insemination and a spaceship landing. It also discusses the analysis of soil samples from Kathie Davis' backyard, with conflicting results regarding hydrophobia. The use of hypnotic regression is discussed as a method for recalling experiences, with caveats about its reliability.

'Kathie: Soil test condensed' (Page 10)

This continuation of the article on Kathie Davis details the soil sample analysis performed by Vernon Grebe. While Grebe reported the soil looked like soil and dried clay, and was low in nitrogen, he noted it did not exhibit hydrophobic behavior as claimed by Hopkins. Grebe's findings were reported to his superiors but did not appear on a Mobay lab report. The article also mentions Ted Phillips, an expert on physical trace evidence, and the limitations of hypnotic regression as a technique for proving events.

'UFO believers Flushing Township couple investigate sightings of aliens' - By MARIO H. HURTADO (Page 6)

This article profiles George and Shirley Coyne, state co-directors of MUFON in Flushing Township. They describe a personal UFO encounter involving a silent, orange-red glowing craft that followed their car. The Coynes emphasize MUFON's scientific approach to investigating UFO sightings and their efforts to educate the public during National UFO Awareness Week. They believe alien spacecraft have visited them eight times since August 1983 and discuss MUFON's work in investigating abduction claims, noting that abductees may recall experiences through hypnosis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the prevalence of UFO sightings across different regions, the persistent allegations of government cover-ups regarding UFO phenomena, and the ongoing efforts of private organizations like MUFON to investigate and document these events. There is a clear interest in presenting eyewitness accounts and research findings, while also acknowledging skepticism and the challenges of proving such claims. The articles highlight the public's fascination with UFOs and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, as well as the psychological and societal implications of these beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena and investigations, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, though some reviewers express a more critical or skeptical perspective.

This issue of the Yorkshire Evening Post, dated July 6, 1987, features a prominent cover story with the headline "'Aliens have landed'", detailing claims made by author Timothy Good in his new book, "Above Top Secret: The Worldwide UFO Cover-Up". The article, reported by Derek Naylor, suggests a massive, 40-year-long US government cover-up of alien spacecraft and bodies.

Author Timothy Good's Claims

Timothy Good, who has researched the UFO phenomenon for 30 years, asserts that the wreckage recovered from the New Mexico desert in 1947 is just one of several alien craft that have crashed globally and been kept secret. He argues that official denials and the publicization of hoaxes have aided governments in maintaining this secrecy. Good's book reportedly includes thousands of sightings by credible observers, including astronomers, scientists, and military personnel, which have often been met with ridicule.

Backing from Lord Hill-Norton

Lord Hill-Norton, former Chief of Britain's Defence Staff (1971-73), has reviewed Good's evidence and stated, "While I cannot prove there is a UFO cover-up I believe that Tim Good's book does so." He notes the vast number of sightings and the extensive investigations by governments worldwide, yet highlights the lack of official information to counter the numerous books by private individuals on the subject. He finds the alleged cover-up proved but questions the plausible reason behind it.

Official Investigations and 'Ghost Aircraft'

Mr. Good states that official investigations into what were termed "ghost aircraft" began in 1933, with mystery aircraft appearing in Scandinavia, America, and Britain. Sightings have occurred globally, involving numerous witnesses from all walks of life, including presidents, peasants, astronomers, scientists, police officers, and military personnel. Despite official debunking, evidence continues to mount, suggesting a strange phenomenon.

Specific Incidents and Evidence

The book recounts incidents such as a UFO encountered by three police officers near Cononley, Skipton, in 1978, which hovered 100 yards away. Another incident involved a police officer in Todmorden getting within 20 yards of a UFO. The article mentions that official explanations were never provided for these events. British authorities reportedly destroyed UFO reports made before 1962 and treated subsequent reports cavalierly. Rumors of secret Ministry of Defence research into UFOs have also surfaced. Good claims there is a secret UFO research center at RAF Rudloe Manor in Wiltshire, staffed by 30 personnel.

New Mexico Crash and Alien Bodies

The book details the recovery of UFO wreckage in New Mexico in July 1947, confirming the presence of actual alien bodies. This information is reportedly derived from documents made available to Good, including a briefing prepared for President-elect Eisenhower in 1952. The article notes that US authorities dispute the authenticity of these documents, while Good hopes for the eventual release of exhibits and photographs.

Suffolk UFO Sightings

Andrew Culf reports on two major Suffolk UFO sightings: one in 1956 involving radar tracking of a UFO by Bentwaters and Lakenheath airbases, and another in December 1980 near the Woodbridge base in Rendlesham Forest. The latter incident, detailed in Lt. Col. Charles Halt's report titled "unexplained lights," involved animals reacting to a strange glowing object. The article suggests that despite investigations, the truth remains elusive, and the "Halt tape" later surfaced, strengthening the cover-up theory.

UFO Network (CUFON)

Paulette Haddix reports on CUFON (Computer UFO Network), a group founded in 1982 by Dale Goudie and others. CUFON has 1,750 members worldwide and aims to prove the existence of UFOs by obtaining documentation from government agencies through the Freedom of Information Act. Goudie prefers the term UAO (unauthorized aerial object) for these phenomena. CUFON has a database of 300 UFO cases online and 60,000 offline cases. Goudie believes that while the government's official stance denies UFO reality, internal correspondence suggests otherwise. He views UFO penetrations as a national security problem, akin to an act of war.

Eduard Meier Case

Gary Kinder's article, the second in a series, focuses on Wendelle Stevens' investigation into the photographs taken by Eduard Meier. Stevens, a retired Air Force officer with a vast collection of UFO literature and photos, was astonished by Meier's pictures, which he considered the most spectacular he had ever seen. Stevens traveled to Switzerland to meet Meier and examine the evidence, which included metal samples from alleged "beamships" and handwritten notes from the Pleiadians. Meier claimed to have had numerous contacts with Pleiadians from the planet Erra. The article mentions Meier's ability to melt a metal spoon and the teleportation of Meier out of his office, with witnesses seeing him enter but not leave.

Other Sightings and Concerns

An article from the Savannah Morning News reports on "Dancing Lights" sightings in Newington, USA, involving a giant, oblong, brightly lighted object that hovered and landed. Another piece from the Milwaukee Journal questions whether Dane County, Wisconsin, can capitalize on its emergence as a UFO capital. A report from the San Antonio Express-News discusses "ufologists" airing concerns at a symposium, with claims of government cover-ups and the need to treat UFO penetrations as a national security issue. Tom Dooley, a former NSA employee, voiced concern over alleged UFO penetrations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights themes of government secrecy, alleged cover-ups of UFO phenomena, and the collection of evidence by private researchers and organizations. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards official denials and a belief that the public is not being informed about the reality of UFOs. The articles suggest that while governments may officially dismiss UFOs, internal documents and investigations point to a more complex and potentially significant reality. The overall stance appears to be one of advocating for transparency and further investigation into the UFO phenomenon.