APCIC - Vol 14 No 06 - 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 14, No. 6
Date: June 1989
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS delves into various reported sightings and investigations of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena, drawing from newspaper clippings and expert accounts. The magazine presents a range of perspectives, from those who believe in extraterrestrial visitors to those who seek rational explanations for sightings.

Articles and Reports

"Those mysterious lights in the sky often have down-to-earth explanations" (Waterbury Republican, April 2, 1989)

This article, by Bill Gruber, revisits UFO sightings in the Waterbury area, noting that while many sightings are reported, they often have mundane explanations. It recounts a 1954 sighting by Alan Chaponis of a UFO flashing across the sky over Waterbury's City Hall. The article also details a March 1967 incident where hundreds of witnesses, including police, reported glowing lights, which was later revealed to be a hoax involving a plastic bag and candles creating a hot-air balloon effect. The piece highlights that interest in UFOs peaked in the 1950s and '60s, before the U.S. Air Force's investigation, and again after the release of Steven Spielberg's film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." It acknowledges that some observers remain convinced they saw something paranormal. A recent sighting in Southbury is attributed to light planes flying in formation.

Alabama House Nixes Bid to Take Action Against Columnist (Associated Press, May 13, 1989)

This report details how the Alabama House of Representatives refused to take punitive action against Matt Brooks, a columnist for Jacksonville State University's newspaper, The Chanticleer. Brooks had written a column that offended residents of Fyffe, Alabama, a town known for UFO sightings and designated a "UFO Capital." The column reportedly contained the statement that "the only unidentified thing around Fyffe is a brain." The resolution to call for Brooks' suspension or removal was defeated.

"BID TO SOLVE UFOS RIDDLE - Plea to farmers" (Western Independent, April 30, 1989)

Paul Fuller, an expert from the British UFO Research Association, is seeking help from West Country farmers for his research into UFOs, specifically looking for unexplained circles in crops. He aims to dispel "nonsense Martian stories" and notes that most circles can be identified as natural phenomena. Fuller believes farmers are reluctant to report sightings for fear of unwanted attention to their land. He also mentions a case of a "bubble of light" that was identified as a rare meteorological discharge.

"'Rugby ball' UFO seen over river" (Thurrock Gazette, April 21, 1989)

Researchers from the East Anglian UFO and Paranormal Association have been investigating a surge of UFO activity in the Thurrock area over the past ten weeks. Investigator Peter Oliver reports a significant increase in sightings, including a "rugby ball with a tail" and a brilliant green light. The association has set up a hotline for public reports. The "rugby ball" object was seen hovering over the river for half an hour, and similar sightings were reported in nearby towns. The green light changed color and emitted light similar to a sparkler. Oliver stated that these objects were not normal aircraft.

"UFO shaped just like a fish" (South End Evening Echo, May 8, 1989)

UFO investigators are interviewing people who saw a large, skate-shaped object, approximately 100 feet long and 30 feet deep when banked, over Southend. The object was seen inland and by people on the beach. The public is asked to report any sightings to the UFO hotline.

"Experiences of the 'untoward'" (Yorkshire Post, April 25, 1989)

This article discusses a meeting organized by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) and the Independent UFO Network in Bradford. It highlights various perspectives on UFOs, including David Barclay's belief that UFOs and ghosts are related phenomena. The piece also presents rational explanations for some sightings, such as a policeman's photograph of a light proving to be quartz, and three saucer-shaped objects being paper cut-outs. A particularly extraordinary story involves Peter Spencer's account of encountering a "little green man" on Ilkley Moor in 1987, including an examination on an alien craft. The article notes that Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire continue to have a disproportionate number of UFO sightings.

"Did you sight this UFO?" (South End Evening Echo, May 4, 1989)

Fred Hammerton reports on a mystery object with yellow, white, green, and blue lights, shaped like a rugby ball, seen by 26 people in Canvey, Shoebury, and Southend over the Bank Holiday weekend. The object was observed for extended periods, with some witnesses describing it as two saucers joined by a blue light. Reports were made to the East Anglian UFO and Paranormal Research Association.

"Lights phenomena keeps Jenny busy" (Stockport Messenger, April 28, 1989)

Jenny Randles, an author on UFOs and the paranormal, discusses unexplained atmospheric phenomena (UAPs) or "strange lights." She suggests that these lights are connected to the geology of certain areas, with faults in the earth's crust potentially triggering them. Scientists in Norway have tracked orange and blue lights with lasers. Randles notes that witnesses often feel pressure, electrostatic tingling, and experience electrical equipment malfunctions. She believes lights and UFOs are the same phenomenon.

"UFO BUZZES PLANE IN MID-AIR PLUNGE PANIC" (Today London, March 23, 1989)

This article by Nick Craven describes a VIP flight experiencing a mid-air plunge after a UFO sighting over the Mediterranean. Captain Bob Taylor reported a silvery glow with flashing lights, and after the object disappeared, the plane dropped suddenly. While the drop was attributed to wake disturbance, the captain stated it wasn't an aircraft and could have been a missile or a UFO. The incident occurred on the inaugural flight of a McDonnell Douglas 83.

"Wanted! People to investigate aliens" (Colchester Evening Gazette, March 29, 1989)

Ron West, founder member of the East Anglian UFO and Paranormal Research Association, is seeking people in north-east Essex to investigate UFO sightings. The association has received reports of blue flashes, large saucer-shaped objects, and balls of orange light. West notes that a craft shaped like a doughnut with red, green, and blue lights is a popular sighting. He also mentions investigating a large saucer-shaped object seen over Colchester in November and a recent sighting of a craft surrounded by a blue light, which was classified as a UFO.

"Secrets from outer space" (Borehamwood + Radlett Advertiser, April 7, 1989)

This piece reviews Timothy Good's book "Above Top Secret," which compiles evidence for the existence of UFOs. It mentions Lord Mountbatten's belief that UFOs might be inhabitants of other planets. The article also references Air Chief Marshal Lord Dowding's conviction that UFOs are manufactured and not from Earth. It touches upon a police report of a UFO sighting in Stanmore, Middlesex, and quotes Vice Admiral M. M. Krylor of the Soviet Navy stating that the UFO problem is "extremely serious." The article suggests that investigators have concluded that UFO crews possess the ability to disappear and reappear at will, confounding our understanding of physics.

"More UFO sightings reported" (Thurrock Gazette, April 1989)

Ron West of the East Anglian UFO and Paranormal Research Group reports a record number of UFO sightings in Grays, with six detailed reports in March. He describes a popular craft shaped like a doughnut with colored lights. West believes these objects may come up the Thames estuary. He is pleased with the increased reporting and encourages anyone with information to contact the UFO hotline.

"Believing in the..." (Rhyl & Prestatyn Journal, April 19, 1989)

This article features Gary Rowe, a UFO investigator from Rhyl, who has been researching unexplained phenomena for 25 years. Rowe believes that most UFO sightings have logical, "nuts and bolts" explanations, but a fraction remain unexplained. He dismisses the idea of "little green men" and values the cooperation of serious scientific people. Rowe is convinced that evidence of wrecked alien craft exists and that the mathematical odds are overwhelmingly against humanity being alone in the universe. He also touches upon the theory of an organized cover-up.

"UFO spotted flying high over village" (Moulton, date not specified)

This report features an account from Sue, who describes a pulsating red band of light resembling a clock face going mad, seen in the night sky over Moulton. She jokes about welcoming Martians. The object was seen for about half an hour. The article implies that the object was not a meteorite, as official reports suggested for a similar sighting in Southend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS include the persistent reporting of unexplained aerial phenomena, the ongoing efforts of UFO investigators to gather and analyze data, and the contrast between rational explanations and the belief in extraterrestrial visitation. The magazine appears to present a platform for various accounts and perspectives on UFOs, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. There is an underlying suggestion of a possible cover-up or withheld information by authorities, as indicated by Timothy Good's quote. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and witness accounts without definitively endorsing any single theory, while acknowledging the enduring mystery surrounding UFOs.

This issue of "Unbelievable" magazine, identified by its cover headline and issue number 7, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, featuring a mix of personal accounts, investigations, and expert opinions. The publication date appears to be around April-May 1989, with articles from various newspapers across the United States.

Key Articles and Features

"unbelievable" Cover Story: The main cover headline is simply "unbelievable," suggesting a focus on extraordinary claims or events related to UFOs. A handwritten note indicates the content continues on another page.

Northampton Chronicle & Echo - April 20, 1989: An article titled "A MYSTERIOUS object has been spotted high over a Northamptonshire village three times in the last two weeks." Villagers Sue and Dave Harrison reported seeing a disc-like object, blue in the middle with a white band, moving slowly. They are sharing their sightings with colleagues at Hestair Maclaren.

Arkansas Gazette - April 16, 1989: This section features an article titled "200 gather for meeting about UFOs" and a "Speaker was 'contactee'" by Stephen Steed. Dr. Daniel Fry, a self-proclaimed "contactee" who claims an alien encounter in 1950, spoke at a three-day UFO conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The conference attracted believers and the curious, with speakers discussing sightings, cattle mutilations, and alleged government cover-ups. Vicki Cooper, publisher of UFO Magazine, emphasized the need for government investigation. Fry, now 81, shared his story and sells his book, "To Men of Earth." Conference organizer Lou Farish hoped it would become an annual event.

Houston Chronicle - April 30, 1989: An article by Alan Bavley, "License suspended of doctor who warned of UFO invasion," details the case of Dr. Scott Corder, a family practitioner in Ottawa, Kansas. Corder believes extraterrestrials are angels and that the apostle Peter communicates with a woman in Russell, Kansas. The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts suspended his license, ordering him to see a psychiatrist, citing a "distinct possibility of mental impairment." Despite this, the hospital staff and administrator at Ransom Memorial Hospital defended Corder's medical practice. Corder's beliefs were influenced by Donna Butts, who claims regular communication with Peter. Peter allegedly provided prophecies of future tribulations, including earthquakes and nuclear war. Corder's story gained attention after being featured in the Weekly World News. He has hired a lawyer and is negotiating with the board.

Associated Press - New York: An article titled "UFOs could prove significant to religion, minister believes" discusses Rev. Barry H. Downing, a Presbyterian pastor. Downing asserts that UFOs are real and have significant religious implications, potentially strengthening faith and biblical accounts by providing scientific plausibility. He acknowledges skepticism but believes evidence supports his views.

White Plains Reporter - Dispatch - April 22, 1989: This section includes an article titled "UFOS RELIGION BELIEVES CON'T" and "Lights lead county residents to claim UFO." Rev. Downing theorizes that UFO-borne "higher beings" or "angels" are involved in biblical events. He believes this could bridge the gap between fundamentalist and liberal theological views. His ideas are detailed in his book, "The Bible and Flying Saucer." He suggests that biblical revelations were delivered by beings from another world. Meanwhile, an article about Westchester, New York, describes a prank where six individuals flew ultra-light planes with lights, causing numerous reports of UFO sightings. Airport officials, like Bob Brunner, believe it was a joke intended to generate publicity.

Denver Rocky Mountain News - April 23, 1989: "Aliens among us, local writer says" by Charlie Brennan features documentary filmmaker Linda Moulton Howe. Howe's new book, "Alien Harvest: Further Evidence Linking Animal Mutilations and Human Abductions to Alien Life Forms," posits that a non-human alien life form is intruding on Earth. Howe, a recipient of multiple journalism awards, has investigated the links between livestock mutilations and UFOs, a topic previously examined by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. She references the alleged "Majestic-12 Preliminary Briefing" and criticizes the government's stance on UFOs. Skeptics like Philip Klass dismiss the Majestic-12 report as a fraud, and physicist George Lawrence expresses doubt due to a lack of hard artifacts. Howe also details an investigation into cattle mutilations in Arkansas, where tissue analysis suggested rapid excisions at high heat.

Southend Evening Echo, Essex - May 25, 1989: "More of the mysterious UFOs seen" reports on sightings in the Southend area, including silver glowing lights over beaches and a red ball of light reported by teenagers. UFO investigators are seeking witnesses.

Thurrock Recorder - May 20, 1989: "UFO PROBE" mentions police investigating a report of a "strange orange glow" in the sky near Stanford-le-Hope and Grays.

Manchester Evening News - May 19, 1989: "Phones cut as objects hover over station" details an incident where an ambulance crew in Heywood claimed to have seen three UFOs hovering over their station. The objects allegedly caused phone lines to go dead. Police are investigating, with one theory suggesting the lights might have been a star reacting to atmospheric conditions.

Northampton Chronicle + Echo - May 16, 1989: "Looking for UFOs" introduces the Northamptonshire Unidentified Flying Object Research Centre (NUFORC), established in November 1987. NUFORC acts as a reporting center for UFO sightings, analyzing and investigating them. They are seeking witnesses who observed a strange object on April 20 in Northamptonshire.

Clearwater Sun - April 28, 1989: "Should doctors be allowed to believe in UFOs?" by Bob Driver discusses the case of Dr. Scott Corder. Driver expresses a personal preference for doctors to keep their beliefs, whether religious or about UFOs, separate from their medical practice, citing potential professional complications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the existence of UFOs and extraterrestrial life, alleged government cover-ups, and the intersection of these phenomena with religion and personal belief systems. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and perspectives without necessarily endorsing them, while also acknowledging skepticism. The inclusion of a doctor's license suspension for his beliefs, a UFO conference, and a filmmaker's research suggests a focus on the more serious and investigative aspects of the UFO phenomenon, alongside anecdotal sightings and even a reported prank.

This issue of the North Cheshire Herald, dated May 5, 1989, alongside related articles from other publications like the North Wales Weekly News, Manchester Evening News, Daily Star London, Houston Chronicle, and The Nashville Tennessean, presents a collection of reports and discussions surrounding UFO sightings, strange lights, and related phenomena. The central theme revolves around unexplained aerial events, expert opinions, and public reactions.

Strange Stories About Strange Lights (North Cheshire Herald)

The lead article from the North Cheshire Herald, dated May 5, 1989, highlights the work of Jenny Randles, a local author and research director for the British UFO Research Association. Randles discusses the phenomenon of 'strange lights,' suggesting they are unexplained atmospheric phenomena possibly triggered by geological faults. She controversially claims that these lights and UFOs are one and the same. Randles also references Lord Hill Norton, a former Admiral of the Fleet, who believes there is a cover-up of official investigations into these phenomena. The article mentions sightings over the moors and includes a photograph of an unidentified light over Werneth Low from 1915. Randles notes that victims of close encounters often experience pressure, electrostatic tingling, and nightmares, with electrical equipment being affected.

No-cover up UFO expert (North Wales Weekly News)

This article from May 11, 1989, features UFO expert Philip Mantle, who has examined official government documents. Mantle asserts that there has been no UFO cover-up by ministers, believing the government is as confused about UFOs as the public. He has reviewed documents, including those related to questions from Winston Churchill, and found no satisfactory answers. Mantle also recalls asking MP Merlyn Rees to raise the UFO question in Parliament, but defence secretary Michael Heseltine did not provide convincing answers. Mantle notes that politicians often 'talk round in circles.' He also mentions a past promise by the Ministry of Defence to release UFO-related documents that has not been fulfilled, describing it as an 'about-face.' Mantle runs a nationwide UFO hotline and can be contacted via phone.

Spotting you at high level (North Wales Weekly News)

Reported by Nia Griffith, this piece from May 4, 1989, details a sighting by Douglas Haig Hughes, a former Royal Air Force gunner, and his wife Catherine. They observed a massive, cylinder-shaped object approaching from the Glan Conwy area at about 600ft altitude. The object proceeded towards Llandudno, moving at approximately 45-55 miles per hour before slowing down and emitting a bright red light. Hughes described the experience as not feeling anything, and the object then travelled towards Llandudno without noise. He stated it was definitely not from this earth and convinced him of extraterrestrial life. A spokesman for RAF Valley confirmed no planes were flying over the area for three days.

Over here ET! (Daily Star London)

This article from May 12, 1989, reports on Nashville, Tennessee, planning to build a special civic landing pad for alien visitors. Councillors believe UFOs are visiting Earth but lack a suitable landing spot. Councillor George Darden is spearheading the initiative for a £500,000 landing site, larger than four football pitches. He stated his seriousness and the need to accommodate visitors, referencing past reports of strange creatures coming to town.

Police chase a UFO (Manchester Evening News)

An article from May 9, 1989, by Matt Finnegan, details a claim by an ambulance crew in Heywood that they had a close encounter with a UFO. Stuart Goulding and Walter Gorse reported seeing three objects hovering over the Heywood ambulance station for over an hour. One object, flanked by two white lights, emitted red, white, and blue flashes. When the ambulance headlights were turned on, the UFOs reportedly went 'haywire,' and phone lines at the station went dead. A policeman who pursued the lights for over a mile reported they suddenly darted away. Air traffic controllers did not record any UFOs, and police are investigating the theory of a star reacting to atmospheric conditions. Jenny Randle of the British UFO Research Association is quoted suggesting that pronounced auroral displays, caused by electrical particles, could create similar visual effects and interfere with electrical systems.

Sightings (Manchester Evening News)

This section notes that the Rossendale area has been nicknamed 'UFO Valley' due to a high number of sightings. Unexplained objects have also been reported over nearby moorland. The article mentions that both ambulancemen involved in the Heywood sighting were off duty and unavailable for comment, but a colleague stated they were 'scared stiff.'

UFO alert over orange craft (Southend Evening Echo)

Published on May 22, 1989, this piece reports on two noiseless, orange-coloured, ball or pear-shaped craft seen over Southend and Rayleigh. A couple walking on Southend seafront observed the object about 200 metres away, which disappeared behind trees. Simultaneously, a mother and son near Rayleigh Weir saw a similar orange ball-shaped object hovering, which then descended and disappeared. A woman from Chelmsford later reported seeing a red-brown object travelling towards Southend between Brentwood and Chelmsford. The public is asked to contact the UFO hotline if they witnessed these objects.

Did the prophet Elijah ride a UFO to heaven (Houston Chronicle)

By George W. Cornell, this article from May 13, 1989, discusses the theories of Rev. Barry H. Downing, a Presbyterian pastor. Downing maintains that UFOs are real and have significant religious implications, suggesting they could strengthen faith and renew confidence in biblical accounts. He theorizes that 'higher beings' or 'angels' associated with UFOs are indicated in biblical events, from guiding the Israelites to Christ's ascension. Downing believes this interpretation could bridge the gap between fundamentalist literalism and liberal theology. His book, 'The Bible and Flying Saucers,' explores these ideas. He cites Einstein's relativity theory and suggests an 'eternity as a coexisting universe.' Downing also references a 1969 government commission finding that Air Force observations offered 'insufficient evidence' to substantiate UFOs, implying a government cover-up. He displays a letter from former Senator Barry Goldwater stating that UFO material was withheld as 'above Top Secret.' Downing believes that acknowledging UFO phenomena would lead to a 'religious revolution' and a reinterpretation of biblical faith.

UFOS (Houston Chronicle)

This continuation from the previous article lists biblical events Downing sees as potentially UFO-related, including the firelike phenomenon on Mount Sinai, Elijah's ascension in a fiery chariot, the star of Bethlehem, Jesus' transfiguration, his being 'lifted up,' and Paul's blinding visitation. Downing, who is also a theological consultant to MUFON and the Fund for UFO Research, notes that while he rarely brings his UFO ideas into sermons, some members are aware of his interest and have reported UFO experiences.

Rugby ball was UFO - official (Southend Standard, Essex)

This article from April 21, 1989, reports that a mystery object spotted by five families in South East Essex has been classified as a UFO by the East Anglian UFO Society. The object, described as rugby ball-shaped with a tail and flashing lights, was sighted off Canvey, in Grays, and Rettendon. Ron West of the UFO society ruled out the possibility of it being a plane or helicopter and is seeking further witnesses. One witness described it as 'rugby ball shaped, bedecked with flashing lights hovering over the estuary.'

Satanists or UFOs? (AL-D3 Birmingham News)

Published on May 7, 1989, this article by Frank Sikora discusses the mutilation of a cow in Chilton County, Alabama, which initially sparked speculation about satanic cults. However, UFOs have also entered the picture. The cow was found beheaded and cut in two, with no blood found. Millard Reynolds, the owner, described it as a mystery, suggesting a chain saw was used. He also noted the absence of blood and that the animal was not shot. Reynolds believes it might be the work of a satanic cult. Jeff Ballard, state director for MUFON, states that while satanic cults are often blamed, MUFON is investigating a possible connection between cattle slayings and UFO sightings. Ballard notes that the precision of some mutilations suggests heated instruments or lasers, and MUFON considers the possibility of 'non-human perpetrators.' He mentions that some wounds are clean incisions with an absence of blood, and eyes and other organs have been removed. Ballard is sending information to cattlemen's associations and law enforcement agencies. Sheriff Department Sgt. Charles Flowers dismisses the satanic angle as a 'fad' and suggests panic, but acknowledges that some people are dabbling in it.

For councilman, UFOs not an alien concept (The Nashville Tennessean)

This article from May 10, 1989, by Gail McKnight, focuses on Metro Councilman George Darden of Nashville, Tennessee, who filed a resolution to build a landing pad for unidentified flying objects. Darden is serious about the proposal, citing reports of people seeing strange creatures and having nowhere to land. He is seeking federal funding for the project. Councilman Paul Blankenship commented that a neighbor of his once saw a UFO but stated he did not want them to land.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the prevalence of UFO sightings and unexplained aerial phenomena across different regions, the ongoing debate between scientific explanations (atmospheric, geological) and the possibility of extraterrestrial origins, and the role of government in either investigating or potentially concealing information. There is a clear interest in UFOs from various media outlets, ranging from local newspapers to national tabloids and even a major newspaper's Associated Press coverage. The stance of the publications varies, with some presenting sightings as factual events, others exploring expert opinions and skepticism, and one even delving into religious interpretations. The articles collectively highlight public fascination and concern regarding UFOs, the search for answers, and the potential implications for society and belief systems.