APCIC - Vol 13 No 08 - 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 13, No. 8
Date: August 1988
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring news on government document requests, regional 'flaps' of sightings, and personal accounts of encounters.

Reagan Asked to Release UFO Documents

President Reagan was asked to release secret government documents about UFOs in a letter dated May 19 from Tom Weber, president of UFO Site Center Corp. Weber's organization plans to build a UFO research center in the Elmwood area of Ohio, which has been a site of numerous UFO reports. Weber expressed that while it's a long shot, he felt obligated to make the request. He believes the government is covering up information about UFOs and that presidents have been aware of their reality since Dwight Eisenhower. Weber's letter asks Reagan to make a public statement confirming UFOs are real and to declassify all related documents for public access. He argues that government secrecy on this matter, which may have once been justified for national security, is no longer appropriate, and the public has a right to know.

UFO researcher Robert Hastings of Stockton, California, supports this view, stating that the government began withholding information decades ago due to fears of mass panic and vulnerability. Hastings has obtained 980 CIA documents through the Freedom of Information Act, indicating the seriousness with which agencies like the CIA and National Security Agency treat UFOs. Donald Schmitt, co-director of the Center for UFO Studies in Chicago, believes the military may have withheld evidence of a UFO crash in New Mexico in 1947. Weber also mentioned that the UFO Site Center Corp. is close to acquiring land for its proposed complex in Elmwood.

UFO 'Flap' in Cheshire

The CREWE CHRONICLE CHESHIRE reported on a 'UFO flap' occurring in the Cheshire-Shropshire area, with the Cheshire UFO Studies Centre receiving dozens of reports over three weeks. The Centre, in conjunction with the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), is planning a conference in Crewe to discuss the current spate of sightings. Eric Morris, Chairman of the Cheshire UFO Studies Centre, expressed delight at the volume of reports and invited public participation.

Local Sightings and Mysteries

Several local sightings are detailed:

• Irchester, UK: A mother-of-two reported seeing a UFO hovering above St Katherine's Church for almost an hour on the night of May 31.
• Walters Ash, UK: A mystery object was sighted flying over Walters Ash, following other recent UFO sightings in Thame and Aylesbury Vale.
• Lawrence County, USA: Coy Luna reported seeing a bright, globe-shaped object in a field. When his dog approached, the object lifted off the ground, making a sound like a 'Weedeater'. This is noted as the first reported sighting in the area in some time, recalling a period after World War II when public interest in UFOs was stimulated by space exploration.
• Grandmother's UFO Mystery: Mrs. Edna Tudge of Blackrod, UK, reported watching a bright object in the sky for three weeks. The object, described as eagle-shaped, would descend, waiver, and then disappear. Photographs were taken, but their quality is uncertain.

Space Aliens Turned Our Son Into an Olive

The SUNDAY SPORT reported a bizarre incident from Chile where a six-year-old boy, Pepe Fanchez, allegedly turned into a green olive after a UFO appeared. His parents claim a flying saucer hovered over their home before a beam of energy caused the transformation. The olive was reportedly found in a Martini glass and drowned. Pepe's parents, Dansio and Marcia, were taken into custody, charged with murder, though their claims are reportedly corroborated by sightings from farmers up to a hundred miles away.

UFOs and Crop Circles

Ken Rogers of the British UFO Society stated that the mysterious, geometrically precise circles appearing in crop fields are not the result of natural phenomena but are 'UFO nests' or landing sites for extraterrestrial spacecraft. He asserts that scientists have been unable to disprove this.

UFO Watchers Set for Encounter of First Kind

The LANCASHIRE EVENING POST reported on a conference on UFOs to be held in Blackpool, organized by the Blackpool and Fylde UFO Society. Guest speakers, including Timothy Good, author of 'Above Top Secret', were set to discuss allegations of an international conspiracy and the 'Majestic Twelve' operation. Graham and Mark Birdsall were to discuss covert developments regarding unconventional aircraft, including a photograph of a craft allegedly developed by the Nazis in 1943. Brian Leech was to present findings on events in the Lancashire area.

Mystery of Noisy Lights in West Norfolk

The VIN NEWS+ ADVERTISER reported on mysterious objects and glowing lights seen over West Norfolk, accompanied by strange rumblings heard by thousands. British and American air bases denied involvement. Laurie Marshall described a large, pulsating, orange object hovering before shooting off at great speed. His wife, June, was convinced it was a UFO. John Davies and his daughter Victoria reported a yellow-gold light moving horizontally across the sky.

UFOs: Sad to See Such Bigotry

This letter to the SOUTH WALES ECHO criticized an article by Dan O'Neill for its 'highly inaccurate' and 'bigoted' approach to UFOs. The author, Dr. Richard Lawrence of The Aetherius Society, defended the society and criticized O'Neill's reliance on 'uninformed debunkers' like Christopher Evans and Patrick Moore. He highlighted that many people believe in life on other planets and accept parapsychology, urging the newspaper to acknowledge the numerous UFO sightings reported.

China Reports UFO Incident

The EASTBOURNE GAZETTE reported that China's official news agency Xinhua seriously reported an incident where a football-sized UFO allegedly shrunk a 10-year-old boy to the size of a thimble and beamed him up.

Eerie Tales of the Ring

The WORTHING HERALD featured an article on Chanctonbury Ring in West Sussex, a place associated with ghosts, fairies, and UFO sightings. The article mentions that newspaper reports from 1968 told of UFO sightings over the area. It also touches on legends of the Devil and phantom riders, and the discovery of Anglo-Saxon silver coins, suggesting the location holds many secrets.

Encounters of the MUFON Kind

The PENSACOLA NEWS JOURNAL's 'UFO ALERT' section included depictions of four commonly reported alien types by MUFON: a dwarf-like being with a large bald skull; a creature resembling Mr. Spock; an apelike creature with glowing eyes, a large nose, and fang-like teeth; and a small hairy being with long arms and claws.

Investigators Seek Evidence of UFOs

The PENSACOLA NEWS JOURNAL reported on a MUFON recruitment session led by Gary Watson and Charles Flannigan. They sought individuals to act as field investigators for the growing number of UFO sightings in the Gulf Breeze area. Watson emphasized the importance of scientific detachment and protecting witness confidentiality. The article also outlined the code of ethics for MUFON investigators, stressing honesty and obtaining informed consent for tests.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO NEWS consistently highlights the ongoing public interest in UFOs and the perceived lack of transparency from governments regarding the phenomenon. There is a strong undercurrent of belief in the reality of UFOs and extraterrestrial visitation, with a call for more openness and investigation. The magazine features a mix of news reports, personal accounts, and expert opinions, reflecting a commitment to exploring the UFO mystery from various angles. The editorial stance appears to be one that supports the investigation of UFO phenomena and encourages the release of information, challenging skepticism and 'bigotry' towards the subject.

This issue of the MUFON UFO Journal, dated June 1988, focuses on UFO ALERT and features articles on investigator training, specific sighting reports, and the broader implications of UFO phenomena. The magazine highlights the rigorous process for becoming a MUFON investigator, emphasizing the need for specific skills and a commitment to the subject.

MUFON Investigator Training and Requirements

The article "UFO ALERT" details the qualifications and training necessary to become a MUFON Field Investigator. Ideal candidates are described as individuals with scientific backgrounds, investigative experience, or those who possess strong interpersonal skills and enjoy working with people. The manual notes that even individuals with limited formal training can be effective if they have broad knowledge and experience. To join, candidates must submit a resume, obtain a recommendation from a MUFON director, and pay annual dues. Approved investigators receive an identification card and access to the MUFON UFO Journal. They are also provided with the "MUFON Field Investigator's Manual." The training includes bi-monthly meetings for experience sharing and research technique development. Certification requires passing a 100-question exam and completing at least 12 hours of training. Investigators are coached on interviewing witnesses, documenting sightings, and assembling an investigator's kit. Questionnaires are provided to gather detailed information about encounters, including physical effects, landings, and the presence of physical traces or artifacts. The manual also advises investigators on how to approach witnesses, suggesting they dress according to the witness's social standing to build rapport.

Alien Types and Encounters

The article "Alien types run gamut, from Spock to Bigfoot" by Lynn Howard, drawing from the MUFON Field Investigators Manual, describes four commonly reported alien entities. Type 1 is described as dwarf-like and humanoid with a large skull, slanted eyes, and pointed ears. Type 2 is man-sized and human-like, resembling Mr. Spock without pointed ears. Type 3 is characterized as Bigfoot, Yeti, or Sasquatch – large, apelike with glowing red eyes and fangs. Type 4, reported in South America, are anthropoids covered in dark hair, with long arms and claws. The manual also covers investigating entity encounters, radar sightings, and "extraordinary cases" like crashed UFOs. Abduction cases are noted as particularly intensive, with about 12 percent of reported cases involving witness abduction. The manual stresses the importance of documenting abduction reports carefully, regardless of their bizarre nature. Investigators are urged to rule out conventional explanations for sightings, such as stars, planets, or aircraft.

Witness Background and Investigation Techniques

Investigators are advised to scrutinize a witness's background, including their personality, affiliations, and interests in UFOs. After the interview, investigators may visit the sighting location to examine traces and document reference points. Further background checks may involve questioning friends and associates and observing any strong philosophical beliefs. The manual also covers investigating entity encounters, radar sightings, and crashed UFOs.

UFO Investigations and Equipment

An article titled "Keep UFO kit stocked with compass, camera" by Lynn Howard outlines the essential equipment for MUFON field investigators. The kit is divided into three categories: necessary, desirable, and optional. Necessary items include an identification card, MUFON questionnaires and manual, compass, clipboard, notebook, maps, paper, pencils, pen, star finders, camera with film, sample containers, tape measure, flashlight, Farmers Almanac, magnifying glass, string, stakes, knife, and tweezers. Desirable items include a tape recorder, color chart, elevation indicators, binoculars, steel tape, chalk lines, camera flash, paraffin or plaster of Paris, tent stakes, trowel, shovel, boots, gloves, insect repellent, first-aid kit, calling cards, and a detailed almanac. Optional equipment includes a Geiger counter, pocket spectroscope, simulation spectrometer, magnetometer, UFO radiometer, camera with diffraction grating, police monitor, and a camera tripod.

Specific Sightings and Reports

Several specific UFO sightings are reported across different publications:

• Stafford, UK (May 16, 1988): A letter to the editor from John Teasdale describes seeing two lights moving westwards over Cannock Chase, which then turned and headed east. He identified them as two identical aircraft, possibly RAF VC-10 tankers conducting in-flight refuelling, due to the sound of jet engines and their slow, steady movement.
• Cambridge, UK (March 2, 1988): Five independent sightings of a UFO matching the report of a 14-year-old schoolgirl, Pauline Emerson, have been logged by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA). Emerson described a shiny, black UFO. BUFORA appealed for further reports from the Cambridge, Suffolk, and Northamptonshire areas.
• Peralta, New Mexico, USA (June 16, 1963): An article by Bart Ripp revisits the case of Paul Villa, who claimed to have photographed a spaceship and spoken with its occupants. The photos, which showed what appeared to be a hubcap or flying saucer, were analyzed by the Air Force, which estimated the craft to be only 7 to 20 inches long. The case is noted as being widely distributed via postcards.
• West Point, Tenn., USA (May 1988): Farmer Coy Luna reported seeing a bright, globe-shaped object near his home. A sheriff's deputy confirmed Luna was sober. The object was described as large, bright, and covered in something like tinfoil, with an engine sound and a small door. A subsequent investigation by John Feurbacher, a physicist, and Joe Douglass, a radiation monitoring officer, found elevated radiation levels at the sighting location.
• Britain (various dates): An article mentions experts in Worcester looking forward to examining reports from a meeting of observers at Jodrell Bank radio telescope, organized by the Manchester UFO Research Association.
• Winchester, UK (April 2, 1988): Frank Barnes reported seeing two UFOs, described as the size of two houses, flying slowly over the city. He claims two policemen also witnessed the phenomenon.
• Lichfield, UK (March 11, 1988): A second witness reported seeing a long, silvery, cigar-shaped object, described as a miniature submarine, hovering over the city. Another sighting on March 3 involved a UFO with blue, red, orange, and green lights.
• Therfield, UK (Monday morning): Eddie and Molly Owers reported seeing a glowing yellow shape in the sky, described as static and not an aeroplane.

'Extraterrestrial Hypothesis' and Skepticism

John Sherwood's article "'Extraterrestrial hypothesis' still unproved" discusses the work of J. Allen Hynek, who initially was a skeptic but later softened his stance. Sherwood expresses discomfort with the "extraterrestrial hypothesis," noting that many claims lack physical proof and often rely on interpreting "abducted" persons' memories. He mentions figures like Whitley Strieber and Barney and Betty Hill, whose stories have passed lie-detector tests, but attributes this to the mind's ability to convince itself. Sherwood left MUFON, believing it was more interested in promoting the extraterrestrial myth than pursuing scientific solutions.

Government Cover-Up Allegations

Walter Andrus, international director of MUFON, claims the U.S. government has withheld UFO information, possibly to monopolize technology. He states that U.S. military branches and intelligence agencies have thousands of documents recognizing UFO visits. Andrus also alleges that the government has recovered crashed UFOs and bodies, which were taken to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base but later removed. An Air Force doctor reportedly performed an autopsy on one body, describing it as having a large head and elongated limbs. However, Lt. Col. Bud Rothgeb of the Air Force media relations office denied any involvement in UFO matters and stated the Air Force no longer handles UFO investigations. Edward Reese, an archivist at the National Archives, confirmed that "Project Blue Book" is on file but contains no substantiation for Andrus' claims, and no record of space vehicles or bodies being taken to Wright-Patterson.

LBS Communications 'UFO Cover-Up... Live'

LBS Communications is preparing a two-hour live syndicated special titled "UFO Cover-Up... Live," scheduled for October 14. The show aims to present material obtained under the Freedom of Information Act suggesting a government cover-up of alien existence. Paul Siegel, president of LBS Entertainment, stated that the show is expected to generate enough new information to prompt a congressional investigation. The program will budget between $1 million and $2 million and will feature arguments from both sides, though Siegel and his staff believe a cover-up has occurred. They expect to feature a government official who will speak out on the alleged cover-up. The show will originate in Washington, D.C.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the tension between the belief in UFO phenomena and skepticism. MUFON, as an organization, is presented as a primary source for UFO investigation and information, with a focus on training and methodology. However, the article by John Sherwood introduces a critical perspective, questioning the scientific validity of the "extraterrestrial hypothesis" and suggesting that some UFO organizations may prioritize myth over evidence. Allegations of government cover-ups are a recurring theme, with Walter Andrus being a prominent voice. The inclusion of specific sighting reports, from the mundane (RAF tankers) to the extraordinary (alien encounters), showcases the diverse range of phenomena investigated. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the possibility of UFOs while also encouraging critical analysis and scientific rigor, though the emphasis on investigation and reporting suggests a leaning towards validating the phenomena.

This issue of the magazine, dated April 22, 1988, with a cover headline "A close encounter" and a lead story "UFOS OVER CHASE: RAF CALLED IN" (dated March 17, 1988), focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena across various locations and historical periods.

Articles and Reports

UFOs Over Chase: RAF Called In

The main article confirms that RAF Strike Command is "extremely interested" in a large number of unexplained UFO sightings over the Chase area. In the preceding month, 38 sightings were reported, with 26 over Rugeley and others in surrounding towns. This is a stark contrast to the normal monthly average of four. John Hurley of the Unidentified Flying Objects Studies and Investigations, who is preparing a report for Strike Command, states, "Something very strange is going on." He describes witness accounts as "extraordinary" and not attributable to conventional aircraft or celestial bodies. One account details a frightened 12-year-old girl who, with friends, saw a huge oval-shaped craft hovering at 600 feet, illuminated by green, blue, and white lights, which moved off silently at high speed. Police officers have also reported similar sightings. Most sightings occur after 10:30 pm. A Lichfield man reported seeing a 'cigar-shaped' object hovering over a church, and two men spotted a similar object near Rugeley Road.

A Close Encounter

This personal account describes an experience from years ago when the author, driving home, saw a "glowing yellow saucer shape in the sky." The experience was terrifying and has had a lasting effect, though the author had been too frightened to speak about it until now. The author expresses skepticism about UFO reports but is now convinced, wondering if other readers have had similar experiences.

UFO Sleuth to Probe Town's 'Bright Lights'

This article from the Luton News (April 14, 1988) reports that Ken Phillips, an investigator with the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), is traveling to Luton to investigate sightings of a mysterious object. He plans to interview Irene Armstrong, who reported seeing a strange object like a "diamond ring" or a "long shape, like a disjointed arrow, with orange lights" on two consecutive nights over Dunstable. Phillips has made previous reports regarding Luton sightings.

Probe into 'aliens in backyard claims'

This report from the Nuneaton Evening Tribune (March 23, 1988) details the work of Walter Andrus, International Director of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), who is investigating a Florida man's claim of chasing small alien creatures and seeing a circular UFO with portholes. Andrus emphasizes MUFON's professional approach and need for facts, cautioning against hoaxes. Local police in Gulf Breeze have not confirmed the sightings, though other residents have reported similar encounters.

Leo Bartsch on a Mission

This article from The Register-Guard (April 18, 1988) profiles Leo Bartsch, a 74-year-old publisher of the UFO News. Bartsch, who has never seen a UFO himself, believes they are supernatural manifestations sent by God to reveal the flaws in organized religion. His mission, spanning 29 years, involves interpreting biblical prophecies through the lens of UFO phenomena. He recounts an incident in 1959 where he experienced weightlessness and his arm healed, which he attributes to a UFO. Bartsch communicates his theories through newsletters and paid ads, viewing UFOs as "angels sent to expose false religions."

Lady of Light or a Spaceship?

This article discusses the significance of the Fatima apparitions in Portugal in 1917, where children reported seeing a "Lady of Light." The author suggests that "saucer consciousness" emerged after 1947, leading to the attribution of many historical oddities to UFOs. It references the biblical account of Moses ascending into a cloud and the 1915 Gallipoli incident involving "loaf of bread-shaped" clouds. The article highlights Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of "saucer-like things" as a key event, and mentions George Adamski's 1953 book about meeting a Venusian, which was later dismissed by a skeptic as a photograph of a vacuum cleaner part.

The Heavens Opened

This section interprets biblical accounts, such as Ezekiel's visions and the story of Sodom and Gomorrha, through a UFOlogist's lens. It suggests that angels mentioned in the Bible were actually "spacemen" and that UFOs are supernatural phenomena. The article also touches upon the idea that ancient civilizations, like the builders of Stonehenge and the pyramids, may have been aided by advanced extraterrestrial occupants.

Riddle of Clouds on Hill 60

This piece recounts a World War I incident in Gallipoli where witnesses reported seeing six or eight "loaf of bread-shaped" clouds hovering over Hill 60. A cloud resting on the ground was also observed. Soldiers marched into this cloud and disappeared, with the regiment later reported missing or wiped out. Turkey denied any contact or capture of the regiment, leaving it as a "real UFO mystery."

Living on Venus

This section discusses J.L. Blumrich, a NASA engineer, who, after initially intending to debunk Erich von Däniken's theories, became convinced that Ezekiel's description of a divine encounter actually described a spacecraft. The article notes that the Bible and New Testament are filled with such examples, and that new religions or cults have emerged, such as The Aetherius Society, which claims Jesus is alive and living on Venus.

Alien Abduction' in the Park

This report from the Yorkshire Evening Post details an investigation into a former special constable's story of being abducted by aliens in Roundhay Park, Leeds. The incident, involving a "purple light" and figures described as "like humans except they were furry," is being investigated by the British Unidentified Flying Objects Research Committee. Witnesses reported seeing a purple glow and a man in a grey suit on the ground. The alleged abductee, Martin Cohen, stated that something frightening happened and people should be told about it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO sightings with religious interpretations, historical events, and government secrecy. There is a clear interest in personal witness testimony, often presented as credible evidence of extraordinary phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be open to the possibility of supernatural or extraterrestrial explanations for unexplained events, particularly when conventional explanations are lacking. The articles often challenge established scientific or religious paradigms, suggesting that UFOs play a significant role in a broader, possibly divine, plan. The recurring theme is the attempt to find evidence of the supernatural or extraterrestrial in historical accounts and contemporary sightings, often with a critical view of organized religion and official dismissals of UFO phenomena.