APCIC - Vol 13 No 04 - 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 13, No. 4
Date: April 1988
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring reports on proposed landing sites, alleged alien encounters, and widespread sighting waves. The publication highlights the media's attention to these topics and includes perspectives from researchers, residents, and officials.

Proposed UFO Site in Elmwood, Wisconsin

The lead story, originating from the Minneapolis Star Tribune (February 14, 1988), details the formation of the UFO Site Center Corp. in Elmwood, Wisconsin. Businessman Tom Weber is spearheading this initiative, which aims to establish a multi-million dollar facility to serve as a safe landing site for alien spacecraft. The center, which has filed for non-profit status, has garnered significant media attention, with local officials expressing openness to the project. Weber believes that by creating a welcoming environment, possibly with a light display, extraterrestrial civilizations that have been observing Earth can be invited to make contact. The town of Elmwood, with a population of 991, has a history of UFO sightings and even celebrates 'UFO Days.' While some residents, like Carole Forster, express concerns about the impact on the town's character, others, like eighth-grade teacher Dolores Radtke, are supportive.

Another article from the Eau Claire Leader-Telegram (February 6, 1988) further elaborates on the UFO Site Center's plans. Tom Weber explains that the group believes an intelligent extraterrestrial life form exists and is trying to make contact. They see the proposed site as an invitation. The center would require an estimated two square miles and would eventually be staffed by professional scientists to facilitate dialogue with aliens. The article also mentions Dave Martinek, another corporation officer, who became interested in UFOs in high school. The organization plans international fundraising efforts and can be reached at P.O. Box 822, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729.

Alien Encounter Off Florida Coast

A sensational report from the SUN (January 19, 1988) describes fishermen netting a 5-foot-long greenish alien with bulging eyes and a grouper-like mouth off the coast of southern Florida, near the Bahamas. Captain Jim P. Reindt and his seven-man crew reported strange aerial activity the night before. The creature, described as having a slick green body and gill-like ears, was taken aboard. The fishermen, worried about the creature, subdued it with a tranquilizer gun and contacted shore. A U.S. Coast Guard vessel intercepted their boat and took the alien away, with the Coast Guard spokesman denying the existence of such a creature. The fishermen believe the incident might be connected to the Devil's Triangle and suggest aliens may be using the area as a waste dumping ground.

UFO 'Flap' in Wytheville, Virginia

The Richmond Times Dispatch (January 3, 1988) covers a significant wave of UFO sightings, termed a 'UFO flap,' in Wytheville, Virginia, during the fall of 1987. Over 2,000 sightings were reported, with descriptions ranging from 'a flying school bus' to 'an upside-down ice cream cone.' The sightings occurred in various locations around the county, including Piney, Speedwell, and Cripple Creek. Residents, including hunters, secretaries, and even a police chief, reported seeing these objects. Dr. Carl E. Stark, the mayor of Wytheville, expressed pride in the community's approach to the phenomenon. The article also touches on the skepticism, with some, like James E. "Coaldust" Moore, dismissing the sightings. Radio newsman Danny Gordon is presented as a believer.

A follow-up article from the same publication (January 21, 1988) continues the discussion on the Wytheville UFO flap. It mentions that the calls reporting UFOs have decreased with the onset of winter. Deputy Sheriff C.M. Collins and Deputy Sheriff C.M. Collins recount some of the more unusual calls, including one where a woman claimed a UFO had landed and had 'it wrote on the side of it.' The article also features ufologist Victor Jackson, who believes the craft are 'definitely extraterrestrial in nature,' and Barbara Finney, who discussed signs of alien abduction such as surgical scars and missing time. The cold atmosphere of alien spacecraft is also noted as a cause of sinus problems.

Budd Hopkins and Alien Abductions

The Detroit Free Press (January 13, 1988) features an interview with UFOlogist Budd Hopkins, author of "Intruders: The Incredible Visitations at Copley Woods." Hopkins, described as a sober, prize-winning artist and researcher, discusses his work with individuals who claim to have been abducted by aliens. He states that many of his subjects were first abducted as children and tested by aliens. Hopkins' own interest in UFOs began in 1964 after witnessing a lens-shaped object. His research led him to investigate cases of alien abduction, which he describes as involving genetic experiments and what he calls 'extraterrestrial rape.' His book "Intruders" focuses on the case of Kathie Davis. Hopkins notes that his subjects include professionals like police officers, lawyers, and psychiatrists. He also mentions a Gallup Poll indicating that most people believe UFOs are physically real.

Other UFO News and Reports

The Houston Post (January 21, 1988) provides a roundup of UFO news, including a report from Weekly World News (WWN) suggesting that Atlantis was a civilization on Mars, not underwater. Swiss scientists are quoted as claiming Martians traded with ancient Egyptians and introduced them to space shuttles. The article also mentions a Soviet scientist's determination that a 4-foot-long mummy was actually a space alien. Another report from 'The Sun' details fishermen catching a greenish alien off the Florida coast, which was then taken by the U.S. Coast Guard. The article also references a Chinese scientist's claim that dolphins are descendants of space travelers who came to Earth 100,000 years ago and are now seeking a new planet due to pollution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO NEWS consistently explores the theme of extraterrestrial visitation and the potential for human-alien contact. The articles present a range of perspectives, from the proactive efforts to establish contact through UFO landing sites to the more passive reporting of sightings and alleged abductions. There is a recurring undercurrent of government secrecy or skepticism, particularly in the Florida alien encounter case where the Coast Guard denied the creature's existence. The publication appears to lean towards validating these phenomena, featuring believers like Danny Gordon and researchers like Budd Hopkins, while also acknowledging skeptics. The overall stance is one of open inquiry into the unexplained, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of alien life and its interaction with humanity.

This issue of "The UFO Sightings" (dated February 25, 1988, from the Pensacola News) delves into various UFO phenomena, featuring reports from different regions and perspectives, including eyewitness accounts, expert analysis, and skeptical viewpoints.

Brewster Couple Baffles Experts with Tape of UFO

The lead story focuses on Robert and Lori Pozzuoli of Brewster, New York, who captured a two-minute videotape in July 1984 of mysterious lights they believe to be an unidentified flying object (UFO). The tape has garnered significant attention, being scrutinized by experts, featured in a book, and broadcast on television. The Pozzuolis, formerly skeptics, are now dedicated to finding an answer, stating, "There is something out there that defies normal existence." Area police departments received numerous reports of similar objects in 1983 and 1984, with traffic stopping on the Taconic State Parkway as people gawked at the night sky. UFO researchers like Phillip Imbrogno consider the tape to be among the best evidence for UFOs, noting that even skeptics are baffled. However, Terence Hines, a psychology professor, dismisses such accounts as misinterpretations by the visual centers of the mind, comparing them to medieval beliefs about witches.

UFO Watchers Gather Tonight in Carmel

This article by Geoff Walden reports on UFO watchers gathering in Carmel, New York, to observe the skies. Limited parking on Route 301 necessitates carpooling for these vigils, often organized by UFO enthusiast Peter Gersten. Previous watches have been disrupted by police due to traffic hazards. Gersten believes an unidentified flying object is active in the region. A recent NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory letter suggesting that lights seen in 1983 and 1984 might have been attached to a single, rigid object, like an 'airship,' has rekindled interest. Police had previously concluded these were light aircraft from Stormville Airport. Gersten's UFO hotline receives regular calls, and watchers are advised to bring cameras and binoculars.

Bright Lights Prompt Dutch Search for UFO

A brief report from Amsterdam, Netherlands, details a late-night search by Dutch police, involving patrol cars and a helicopter, for a purported craft from outer space. The hunt was prompted by reports from Schiphol airport air traffic controllers observing bright lights not detected by radar. Dozens of calls from the public described various objects. After several hours, the police found only strong lamps on a harbor crane, which might have been visible from the airport's control tower.

Investigators Hoping to Verify UFO Photos

This article by Michael Burke discusses UFO investigators attempting to corroborate photographs showing alleged spaceships over Gulf Breeze, Florida. The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) is investigating dozens of photos submitted by a local resident, identified only as 'Jim,' who fears public ridicule. Jim claims to have witnessed 16 sightings between November 11 and February 26. One photo shows three disc-shaped objects, while another depicts a spaceship hovering above a road, illuminated from below. Jim has reported bizarre experiences, including being struck by a blue beam and hearing a voice. MUFON investigators have conducted stakeouts and provided Jim with a special sealed camera for further documentation. Bruce Maccabee, an optical physicist, stated that the evidence is either a massive hoax or the real thing.

'This is not airplanes'

Paul Kirby reports that a letter from Lew Allen, director of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, has renewed suspicions about UFOs in the northern Westchester and Putnam counties area. The letter suggests that the lights seen in 1983 and 1984 were attached to a single, rigid object, possibly an airship, contradicting the earlier police conclusion that they were aircraft. UFO researchers Peter Gersten and Philip Imbrogno plan to intensify their investigations. Imbrogno, author of "Night Siege: The Hudson Valley UFO Sightings," believes the letter is crucial to solving the mystery. While Allen's letter stated the examination was visual and quantitative analysis was not deemed necessary, Imbrogno disagrees, believing further studies should be conducted.

UFO landing site in Wisconsin intelligent

This column by Jim Heffernan discusses a proposal in Elmwood, Wisconsin, to build a multimillion-dollar UFO landing site. The idea comes from a local businessman and aims to attract international funding. Elmwood was chosen due to its history of UFO discussions and sightings, and its annual "UFO Days" celebration. Heffernan, while acknowledging his skepticism, sees potential for publicity and tourism. The article mentions the concept of 'this intelligence' having a body structure and central nervous system similar to humans.

Light in Central Texas sky could have been space debris

Tara Parker reports on a bright light seen by over 100 people in Central Texas. Authorities received numerous calls, and while some speculated it was space debris, experts could not definitively identify it. A UT astronomy teaching assistant described it as a very bright light moving sideways, not like a meteor. NASA spokesman Terry White noted that thousands of objects are in Earth's orbit, and pieces may enter the atmosphere daily. While some theories about Soviet spacecraft debris were discounted, other space debris remains a possibility.

Experiences of chief made wife a believer

Doris Wheeler of Elmwood endorses the town as a landing site for extraterrestrial beings, inspired by her late husband, former Elmwood Police Chief George Wheeler. He reported two UFO sightings in the mid-1970s: one of a bright light that approached him while on patrol, and another of a large, bright saucer-shaped object with visible occupants and a blue beam. These experiences, which left him stunned and later hospitalized with nightmares, convinced his wife of the reality of UFOs.

Officials try to explain fireball over Wisconsin

This brief report mentions a fireball sighted over southern Wisconsin, with possibilities including a meteor shower or Soviet satellite debris. Ted Stimach of the National Weather Service stated that while it was a bright streak, it was not caused by the specific Soviet satellite debris that fell elsewhere.

Flying saucer mystery at the Shore

Patrick Jenkins reports on a sighting near Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, where police officers confirmed seeing slow-moving green lights. However, FAA radar showed no aircraft in the area. The police statement suggested a slow-moving aircraft, but the lack of radar confirmation and the officers' observation of hovering lights created a mystery. A spokesman for the National UFO Reporting Center stated no reports of the incident had been received there.

UFO sightings may get heavy

This article discusses the proposed UFO landing site in Elmwood, Wisconsin, and its potential to increase UFO sightings. It references the work of J. Allen Hynek and the Center for UFO Studies, noting that many UFO sightings cannot be explained by natural phenomena. The article suggests that an invitation to land might encourage more common sightings.

UFO report causes stir

Michael L. Atcherson reports on the media attention surrounding UFO sightings in Gulf Breeze, Florida. The weekly Gulf Breeze Sentinel published photographs of alleged UFOs, attracting interest from various media outlets. The photos, taken with a Polaroid camera by a man identified as 'Mr. Ed,' show a spherical object. MUFON investigator Donald Ware believes aliens are staging these events. 'Mr. Ed' recounted experiences of being frozen by a blue beam and lifted off the ground. Another witness, Charles Somerby, recognized the object from the Sentinel's photo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO sightings, the presentation of photographic and video evidence, and the ongoing debate between believers and skeptics. The articles highlight the persistence of UFO reports across different regions and the efforts of researchers to gather and analyze data. While some reports lean towards the extraordinary, others offer more conventional explanations like aircraft or space debris. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on the phenomenon and the various perspectives surrounding it, without definitively taking a side, though the emphasis on evidence and investigation suggests a serious consideration of the topic.

This issue of the San Antonio Express News, dated February 20, 1988, and the Austin American-Statesman, dated February 19, 1988, along with other regional publications, extensively covers UFO sightings and related phenomena. The primary focus is on a significant UFO event reported across Central and South Texas on Thursday night, February 18, 1988, involving multiple witnesses including pilots and an air traffic controller.

UFO Spotted Thursday in Central, South Texas (San Antonio Express News, Feb 20, 1988)

This article details a UFO sighting that occurred around 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 18, 1988. Citizens from San Antonio to Austin reported seeing a bright, speeding object for nearly 10 seconds. A witness driving with four others from San Saba to Fredericksburg described it as a large, round pool of light that was so bright it almost blinded him, estimating it to be about 100 miles away. The Gillespie County Sheriff's office and Hays County Sheriff's Department received multiple calls about the sighting. Air traffic controllers at Robert Mueller Municipal Airport were contacted, and an FAA supervisor, Allan King, reported that two pilots and an air traffic controller described the object as an extremely bright light traveling at high speed. King speculated it might have been a meteor or a satellite re-entering the atmosphere, but noted it seemed too bright for a satellite and admitted, "Nobody really knows what it is." He also stated that in his 17 years of experience, he was not aware of anything reported of this extent.

UFO reported over Hays, Travis counties (Austin American-Statesman, Feb 19, 1988)

This article corroborates the Texas sightings, focusing on Hays and Travis counties. It reports that at least a dozen people, including an air traffic controller and two pilots, spotted the object around 10 p.m. on Thursday night. Curtis Weeks, a spokesman for the Travis County Sheriff's Department, confirmed that officers investigated calls, including those from residents on Trails End Road. Brian Grady, Hays County sheriff's dispatcher, stated that while something was seen, its nature was unknown. Allan King, FAA supervisor at Mueller airport, reiterated that pilots and a controller described an extremely bright light moving at high speed. King described the movement as rapid, lasting only seconds. He also mentioned that two airplanes southwest of Austin, about 25 miles out, sighted it shortly after. King's speculation about a meteor or re-entering satellite was tempered by the object's brightness, and he expressed uncertainty about its identity, noting the unusual extent of the report.

2 UFO Sightings Over China Reported (Associated Press, March 20, 1988)

This section reports on two UFO sightings on flights to Xinjiang province, China. On Friday night at 9:35 p.m., a passenger on a flight from Beijing to Urumqi saw an unidentified flying object in front of the plane. Local airports confirmed no other aircraft were in the area. The object was described as basketball-sized, emitting a beam like a searchlight. It changed direction, moved north, and then split into two: a smaller ball above a bean-shaped object, spinning rapidly and emitting a ring of green light. About half an hour later, passengers on a flight from Canton to Urumqi spotted a UFO over the same area.

List of area UFO sightings growing (Bismarck Tribune, March 1988)

This article from the Bismarck Tribune highlights a growing list of UFO sightings in central North Dakota. Dan Huffman, manager of Dakota Waters Resort near Beulah, reported seeing six bright lights just after midnight on February 26, which coincided with unidentified radar blips at Minot Air Force Base and a sighting by farmer Victor Walker near Zap. UFO investigator Don Johnson noted this was the most sightings he could recall in nine years, suggesting it might be a new wave or increased reporting due to media coverage. Huffman described the lights as stationary, evenly spaced, and glowing like spotlights. He recounted a feeling of caution, comparing it to his military experience in Vietnam. The article lists specific sightings in the Bismarck area from November 1987 to February 1988, including descriptions of lights, oval objects, and objects with rotating lights.

Recent accounts reveal some close encounters are of the terrifying kind (Bakersfield Californian, March 2, 1988)

This article delves into the more frightening aspects of UFO encounters, focusing on the work of author Budd Hopkins and his book "Intruders: The Incredible Visitations at Copley Woods." Hopkins chronicles cases of "missing time" and alleged alien abductions, particularly the story of "Kathie Davis," an Indiana woman who claims to have been shown two half-human, half-alien children and told of seven other hybrid children resulting from her and alien sperm. Hopkins, an artist and sculptor who began investigating UFOs after a personal sighting in 1964, employs a rigorous investigative style, using specialists to examine abductees' claims. He concludes that abductees have nothing to gain from fabricating such stories, as they typically shun publicity and suffer anxiety. Hopkins believes the striking parallels between accounts suggest a pattern, and he deliberately omits certain bizarre details to protect privacy and corroborate claims. He has worked with about 180 abductees and received over 1,000 letters and phone calls. Hopkins also collects information on UFO abductions of children, noting their specificity and lack of influence from public UFO publicity. He believes skepticism about UFOs is waning, but acknowledges that many still disbelieve. He emphasizes the importance of belief and acceptance from investigators to encourage people to share their stories.

UFO alert by police patrols (Sandwell Mail, Feb 17, 1988)

This article reports on two UFO sightings by police patrols in the Black Country, UK, on the night of February 16, 1988. Two separate police patrols spotted an unidentified flying object over the Walsall area. One officer described it as a giant oblong block of light, spinning and moving silently. Inspector Roger Clarke and Sergeant Steve Godwin sighted a UFO in Darlaston, describing it as a large object moving very fast. Minutes later, Sergeant Stuart Griffiths and Pc Michael Powell saw a low-flying, flashing object over Rose Hill, Willenhall. Griffiths described it as a very bright, oblong block of light, too big to be an aircraft. The control room at Willenhall noted it had four bright white lights and a flashing red and green one. An airport spokesman suggested it could have been a helicopter or aircraft, but noted Willenhall was not on a general flight path and the descriptions were odd.

Police in two UFO sightings (Walsall Observer, Feb 19, 1988)

This article expands on the UK police sightings. Inspector Roger Clarke and Sergeant Steve Godwin reported seeing a strange object in the sky at about 9:05 p.m. on Tuesday, February 16, describing it as a large object that traveled very fast, with Sergeant Godwin calling it "certainly the biggest thing I've ever seen." Minutes later, Sergeant Stuart Griffiths and Pc Michael Powell saw a very large object, again traveling very fast, with no sound. It had four lights on its side: two white and two flashing red and green. It disappeared at high speed. Sergeant Griffiths stated he had never seen anything like it before and kept it in view for about two minutes. The object was reported to the Ministry of Defence. David Corser also reported seeing a strange object around 9 p.m. The article notes that RAF Cosford and Shawbury had no reports of UFOs but did have helicopters operating. The Ministry of Defence stated that while they are interested in UFO sightings, over 90% are explainable phenomena, but they would look into the police reports.

We saw a UFO, say police! (Willen Hall Ad News, Feb 25, 1988)

This article continues the UK police sighting reports. Five people, including four police officers, reported UFO sightings in Darlaston and Willenhall. Inspector Roger Clarke and Sergeant Steve Godwin saw a large object traveling very fast. Sergeant Stuart Griffiths and PC Michael Powell saw a very large object with no sound, featuring two white and two flashing red and green lights. The object disappeared at high speed. Sergeant Griffiths expressed an open mind about the sighting. The article also mentions a report to the Ministry of Defence and a witness, David Corser, who saw a strange object. It notes that RAF Cosford and Shawbury had no corroborating reports. The article also includes a section titled "Sightings of UFOs flood in" detailing reports from the West Midlands, including a "huge cream light" seen by the Norris family, a sighting by Adrian Scott, and a "brilliant magnesium light" seen by Stanley Cheeseman. John Hurley of the UFO Scientific Investigations commented on the unusual nature of police reporting UFOs. A Ministry of Defence spokesman stated they are interested in sightings, especially if they involve military bases, but noted that most are explainable.

My Space Invaders! (Evening Gazette, Teesside, Feb 22, 1988)

Amateur photographer Andrew Farnaby claims to have captured real-life UFOs on film. While with four friends, he saw a strange bright object in the night sky above Coulby Newham. Farnaby rushed to get his camera and tripod before the object disappeared. He set up a long-time exposure, and the resulting photograph shows what he describes as a "bright tadpole with two tails." Mark Savage, one of the witnesses, described the object as "really weird," stating it stayed still for about 25 minutes before vanishing with a "whoosh." Cleveland Police reported no other UFO sightings on that night. The article includes a photograph of Farnaby and Savage with the alleged UFO photo.

Further Reports of UFO Sightings (Rotherham Recorder, Feb 18, 1988)

This article reports an increase in UFO sightings over Kimberworth, South Yorkshire. UFO expert Mick Hanson stated the number of recent sightings is unprecedented. On Sunday night, a luminous red object, shaped like a diamond, was seen over Fenton Road, hovering and then descending. Hanson, Area Co-ordinator for the S. Yorks. UFO Society, suggested it appeared to be landing. A search of the area revealed no evidence of a landing. The society hopes to enlist the South Yorkshire Microlite Society for airborne searches. Photographs of a diamond-shaped object with five points of brilliant orange light were provided but were unsuitable for reproduction.

Hilda cops UFO too (Stafford News Letter, Feb 19, 1988)

This brief report mentions that UFO fever spread to Stafford, with skywatcher Hilda Harding reporting seeing two white lines shoot by overhead, moving very fast and unlike planes. This report is linked to two West Midlands police teams who independently saw a "giant block of light whizzing through the air."

Tower gave UFO landing instructions! (Dundee Evening Telegraph, Feb 23, 1988)

This article reports an incident on February 9 where an unidentified flying object was spotted over Medellin airport, Bogota, Colombia. Several pilots and flight control operators observed the object. The airport control tower, believing it was a private plane, gave it landing instructions. The crew of a Boeing 727 radioed that the object was following them. The tower then ordered the plane to circle to avoid a collision. An aeronautical board imposed a news blackout, but a journalist reported the object looked like a fast-moving giant star. Crews of five different planes, including a military plane, reported seeing the object, which stayed for half an hour.

Teenager convinced of close encounter with UFO (Northampton Chronicle Echo, Feb 18, 1988)

Teenager Tracey Brown is convinced she saw a "silent, white craft" skimming across the Cold Ashby skyline. Her friend, Maria Richardson, also spotted the object. Brown described it as a "silent white frisbee hovering in the sky." A UFO researcher noted that the object's silence, hovering, and rapid movement are classic characteristics of UFO sightings. The Ministry of Defence stated they would only be concerned if the sighting had a military connotation, adding that 90% of sightings are explained by natural phenomena or planes.

The Savvy Reader: We can see five planets in the sky at night. Some people think these lights are flying saucers.

This section from "The Savvy Reader" explains that some people mistake planets for UFOs. It clarifies that bright lights seen in the sky can be planets like Jupiter and Venus, which shine due to sunlight reflecting off them. It also discusses the upcoming alignment of Earth and Mars, noting that Mars will appear brighter and could be mistaken for a UFO. The article provides questions and answers related to planetary orbits and visibility, and a "Talking Point" question about why people confuse planets with UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout this collection of articles is the widespread nature of UFO sightings across different geographical locations and the variety of witnesses, including ordinary citizens, pilots, police officers, and even military personnel. There is a clear interest in documenting these events, with several publications featuring lists of sightings and investigations by UFO experts. The articles present a range of perspectives, from detailed eyewitness accounts and expert analysis to more speculative theories about alien abductions and genetic experiments. Some articles also offer potential prosaic explanations, such as astronomical phenomena or aircraft. The overall stance appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena with a degree of seriousness, acknowledging the public's fascination and the ongoing efforts to understand these unexplained events, while also noting the skepticism and the need for evidence.