APCIC - Vol 15 No 06 - 1990

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO NEWS is dated June 1990, Volume 15, Number 6. It is published by the AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER based in Cleveland, Ohio. The cover features a stylized '1990 UFO NEWS' logo with a graphic of a flying saucer and the date details.

Tracking the Intruders: The Field of UFO Investigation Gains Momentum

This feature article by Stacey Welling highlights the work of UFO investigator Bud Hopkins. Hopkins, who has been investigating UFOs since a personal sighting in 1964, believes the field is gaining momentum due to an increase in reported sightings. He has investigated hundreds of cases and presented photographic evidence of airborne objects, many of which were circular and showed resemblances to windows and doors. Hopkins dismisses simplistic portrayals of aliens in science fiction, suggesting they are interested in humans for genetic experiments and emotional/spiritual rectification of their own species. He notes that abductees come from all walks of life and often experience 'missing time.' Hypnotic regression is used to uncover details of these terrifying and traumatic experiences, which frequently involve medical exams aboard crafts. Abductees describe beings with human and reptilian features, typically around 4-5 feet tall with large heads and eyes. Crafts are often described as large, silver bullets with doors and ramps. Hopkins has documented cases of children disappearing and reappearing with unexplained incisions, often linked to 'doctor' visits during abductions. He has received thousands of letters and calls and formed the Intruder Foundation to support abductees.

UFO Conference Draws 300

This article by Pat Dallas reports on the second annual Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Over 300 attendees heard research updates and personal accounts. Mayor Ricard Schoeninger welcomed the crowd, noting the genuine belief of the attendees. Dan Wright of MUFON stated the organization has over 2,400 members globally and is dedicated to understanding UFOs. Ed Walters presented slides from sightings in Gulf Breeze, Florida, and discussed his book 'The Gulf Breeze Sightings.' Carey Baker reported on UFO activity in Fyffe, Alabama. Other speakers included Linda Moulton Howe and Dr. John H. Altschuler on animal mutilations, Lauren Rose on alien abduction, and Antonio Huneeus on UFO activity in the USSR. Lucius Farish, the event organizer, noted the conference's success and plans for future events.

Memory Hid UFO Horror, Speaker Says

This article by Bill Bowden details Lauren Rose's experience of alien abduction. Rose, from Alexandria, Virginia, described waking up naked in snow and experiencing 'crippling anxiety and depression' for over 20 years, which she later understood through hypnosis to be due to alien abductions. She recounted being taken aboard crafts and subjected to examinations, describing the aliens as gray or white, 3-4 feet tall, with large slanted eyes and a glowing gold center. Rose emphasized the serious impact of these experiences on mental health and belief systems, likening the abductions to rape due to the power imbalance.

UFOs

This section continues the story of Lauren Rose, detailing her feelings of being watched and compelled to enter the woods as a teenager. She describes being forced through painful examinations, feeling like a 'guinea pig.' She also recounts an encounter with a 'being' who identified itself as the 'archangel of Michael' and spoke of a 'great awakening.'

Easter Hunt for UFO Ends Up Goose Eggs

This brief report from Brussels states that lookout teams in Belgium spent Easter weekend searching for UFOs, following several reported sightings. Despite efforts by the Society for the Study of Space Phenomena, police, and the Belgian air force, no UFOs were definitively found, though a silent, luminous, low-flying triangle was reported.

Strange Lights Leave Scientists Up in the Air

By Farrell Crook, this article discusses seven documented sightings of strange flashing lights in Canada in the past year that have baffled astronomers. In at least three cases, observers found puzzling circles in the ground near where the lights were seen. Winnipeg astronomer Chris Rutkowski is quoted, stating they cannot figure out who or what made them. The article mentions sightings in Kenora, Ontario, where police received calls about blue, orange, and red lights, and radios malfunctioned. It notes that out of 141 UFO reports forwarded to Ottawa's National Research Council, only seven could not be explained as 'honest mistakes.'

No Mystery to Strange Object in Sky

This article by Debbie Blake reports on an object sighted over Dick Deitrick's property in Pike Township, Ohio. Astrophysicist and cosmologist James Rodman assessed a videotape of the object, describing it as a bright white orb that appeared to be larger than planets like Jupiter or Venus. Rodman concluded it was likely a 'weather balloon' or possibly a larger, translucent research balloon, estimating its altitude at 10,000-30,000 feet and its distance at 12 miles. He noted that atmospheric turbulence could cause a bobbing effect.

Who Ya Gonna Call? MUFON

This article by Karen Rafinski explains the role of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) as a resource for those experiencing alien abductions. It mentions the organization's phone number and its function as a support group for abductees. The article also references the Ozark UFO Conference and Mayor Richard Schoeninger's proclamation welcoming extraterrestrials.

Ex-NASA Expert Says Stealth Uses Parts from UFO

This report by Larry Rhodes details claims made by Bob Oechsler, a former NASA mission specialist, at the Ozark UFO Conference. Oechsler asserted that the B-2 Stealth bomber incorporates technology from recovered UFOs, specifically stating its primary propulsion system was taken from a recovered flying saucer. He claimed that government scientists have worked on these downed craft, some of which have been repaired and flown. Oechsler described seeing small chairs inside one craft, indicating it was not of human design. Ed Mazur and Lucius Farish are mentioned as coordinators of the conference, which saw better-than-expected attendance.

UFO Sightings Not 'Bud Lights'

This brief headline suggests a distinction between genuine UFO sightings and misidentifications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alien abductions, and the investigation of these phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on the seriousness of UFO investigation and abduction experiences, with personal accounts and expert opinions presented. The magazine appears to lean towards the belief that UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters are real, with a focus on evidence and the psychological impact on individuals. The articles suggest a growing interest and acceptance of UFO research, while also acknowledging the skepticism and the need for scientific inquiry. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-mindedness and a desire to explore the unexplained, providing a platform for witnesses and researchers in the field.

This issue of the "Little River News" (dated April 1, 1990) focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related phenomena, featuring multiple articles and reports from various locations across the United States. The cover story highlights the phenomenon in Fulton County, Illinois, and includes interviews with local UFO enthusiasts.

Jim Williamson's Investigations in Little River County The issue opens with a report on Jim Williamson, publisher of the "Little River News," who has been investigating UFO sightings in Little River County, Arkansas. A local astronomer dismissed dozens of sightings, but Williamson believes the eyewitness accounts are credible. He recounts seeing and photographing two different UFOs and a larger one nicknamed "Big Bertha." Williamson attempted to find explanations from local airfields, astronomers, and meteorologists, but was unsatisfied. He is leaning towards the idea that they were alien spaceships. Williamson also stumbled upon the phenomenon of cow mutilations, noting that a rancher near Hope reported five cows dead with their sexual organs and other body parts cut off without visible blood. Williamson believes these mutilations were done by aliens, citing UFO experts who say such incidents occur in areas with reported sightings. He sent tissue samples to pathologist John Altshuler, who determined the cuts were made by an extreme heat source, similar to a laser. Williamson is now asking sheriffs to report animal mutilations for study.

Paul Russell and the Mutual UFO Network Another article introduces Paul Russell, a section director for the Illinois chapter of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) and a member of the Aerial Phenomena Club of Central Illinois. Russell has been involved with the latter for 12 years, describing it as one of the oldest independent UFO clubs. He notes that members come from all walks of life, from farmers to physicists. MUFON is an international organization with about 2,500 members nationwide and over 100 in Illinois. Russell discusses his personal history with UFOs, dating back to age 10, and a significant daylight sighting in 1962 that made him a believer. He also recounts a family sighting in 1984 of a cigar-shaped object with multiple port holes. Russell actively seeks reports of unidentified objects and interviews witnesses, submitting reports to MUFON headquarters. He acknowledges that reports are few and far between, requiring extensive detective work to find witnesses.

The Flying Saucer Investigating Committee Closes Christine Maly reports on the closure of the Flying Saucer Investigating Committee (FSIC) in Medina, Ohio, after 29 years. President Americo Candusso, 68, is moving to Arizona, and the club will fold due to a lack of successors. Candusso, a retired teacher and field investigator for MUFON, has chaired the group since 1961. He notes a decline in attendance, with only about 30 people attending meetings, mostly old-timers. Despite this, he doesn't believe interest in flying saucers is fading. The article mentions a major sighting on April 17, 1966, involving Portage County sheriff's deputies Dale Spaur and W.L. Neff chasing a dome-shaped object. Candusso describes his first close encounter in 1959 with a fluorescent pipe-like object and a sighting of five objects in 1961. He also recounts a documented case from 1973 where a helicopter pilot and military men were paced by a UFO over Mansfield. Candusso acknowledges that many sightings can be dismissed as optical illusions or weather phenomena but focuses on the small percentage that cannot be easily explained. He notes a decline in sightings in Northeast Ohio, with the '50s and '60s being the peak.

UFO Researcher Robert Hastings A brief report from The Buffalo News on March 23, 1990, states that researcher Robert Hastings will present evidence supporting his claim that the government is suppressing proof of UFO existence during a lecture at Buffalo State College. Hastings, who has studied UFOs since 1967, bases his assertions on declassified documents he claims show flying saucers exist.

UFO Convention in Pensacola An article from The Florida Times-Union on April 12, 1990, discusses a UFO convention to be held in Pensacola, Florida, due to an unusual number of unidentified flying object sightings in the area. About 600 people are expected to attend the three-day meeting, which will include discussions on "The Impact of E.T. (extraterrestrial) Contact Upon Society." The article humorously speculates on the reasons for the sightings and mentions a headline about two Nazi astronauts returning to Earth.

'Man in Black' Encounter An article from the Lawrence Eagle Tribune on April 5, 1990, details an encounter by Peter Rojcewicz, a professor of humanities and folklore, with a mysterious "Man in Black." Rojcewicz describes the man as gaunt, pale, wearing a black suit, and appearing suddenly in the University of Pennsylvania library. The Man in Black questioned Rojcewicz about his interest in flying saucers and reacted with alarm when Rojcewicz expressed indifference. Rojcewicz felt overwhelmed by fear and a sense of an "altered state." He has been studying anomalous phenomena like the Men in Black since his 1980 encounter.

UFO Experts in Eureka Springs An article from the Arkansas Democrat on March 20, 1990, announces the second annual Ozark UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Lucius Farish, the convention coordinator, states that topics will include sightings, animal mutilations, and UFO abductions. The conference aims to explore all facets of the subject. Bob Taaffe, a former Air Force captain, will discuss UFO events in the Ashdown/Foreman area, including a sighting in January 1988 where young women were terrified by something large and close. Lauren Rose, a writer who claims to have been abducted by a UFO, is also scheduled to appear. The article notes that Fulton County has been a "hub of flying saucers" for 25 years.

'Big Flare' Fall from Sky An article from the Cedar Rapids Gazette on March 18, 1990, reports on a "big flare" seen across the Midwest, including Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri. Hundreds of people called law enforcement and weather services. The lights were described as white streaks, flashing lights, or a fireball. Authorities speculated it was a meteor, but NORAD stated it was not caused by man-made debris. The North American Defense Command could not confirm if it was meteorites.

Flash in Sky Triggers Phone Calls An article from the Robinson Constitution Thursday on March 22, 1990, details a bright flash of light seen across parts of four Midwest states, causing numerous calls to law enforcement. M. L. Skaggs reported seeing a "greenish-white, round ball of fire" that looked like lightning but lasted longer. The event was accompanied by a "fireworks-like 'boom.'" Speculation included a possible radioactive satellite, but NORAD stated the object was not manmade. Marshall Faintich, an astronomer in Missouri, described seeing a bright meteor followed by a brighter flash that went from horizon to horizon, unlike anything he had seen before. The National Weather Service office in St. Louis received calls about the streak, with some people reporting a tremor or impact.

It Wasn't Bird, Plane or Even Superman; Maybe Meteorite A report from The Alton Telegraph on March 19, 1990, discusses the brilliant flash of light seen the previous Saturday evening. While likely a meteorite, it was not caused by falling satellites or space junk, according to NORAD. UFO groups also did not make claims. The flash was seen in Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Arkansas.

UFO Unmasked in Kings County An article from The Fresno Bee on March 29, 1990, addresses reported sightings of unidentified flying objects in Kings County, California. The mystery was explained as hot-air balloons launched by Hanford resident and inventor Steve Dobbs, illuminated by tiny birthday candles. Dobbs apologized for any confusion, promising future launches would be far from urban areas. The article notes that about 90 percent of UFO sightings can eventually be explained away, leaving 10 percent worth wondering about.

Physicist Stanton Friedman Insists UFOs Exist An article by Julia Sopalski from an unnamed Anchorage Times publication on March 29, 1990, features physicist Stanton Friedman's theories on UFOs. Friedman challenges the government to release documents related to UFO sightings, stating the evidence for alien-powered craft is overwhelming. He points to similar descriptions of objects in a 1955 government study ("Blue Book Project No. 14") classified as unknown. Friedman emphasizes the maneuverability of these objects, questioning how Earth manufacturers could produce such craft. He suggests aliens might be concerned about humanity turning planets into battlegrounds. During his talk, 18 people in the audience raised their hands when asked if they had experienced a UFO sighting.

Panhandle Community in Whirl Over UFOs An article from Florida Today on March 28, 1990, reports on a surge of UFO sightings in the Panhandle community of Gulf Breeze, Florida. The article highlights the sighting by Escambia County Medical Examiner C. Fenner McConnell and his wife, Shirley, of a metallic gray, saucer-shaped object. This sighting is among over 200 reported in Northwest Florida since November 1987. The article notes that Northwest Florida has become a recent "hot spot" for sightings. It mentions contractor Ed Walters and his book "The Gulf Breeze Sightings," which includes pictures of the McConnells' sighting. Walters claims he was pulled toward a hovering craft by a beam of blue light.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, investigations into their nature and origins, and the potential involvement of extraterrestrial intelligence. There is a consistent focus on eyewitness accounts, the challenges of documenting and researching these phenomena, and the skepticism or ridicule faced by those who report them. Several articles touch upon the idea of government secrecy or suppression of information regarding UFOs. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the subject, presenting various perspectives from researchers, witnesses, and enthusiasts, while also acknowledging the possibility of mundane explanations for some sightings. The articles aim to inform the public about ongoing UFO research and events, encouraging continued investigation.

This issue, dated May 1990, focuses on UFO phenomena, featuring reports from Gulf Breeze, Florida, international sightings, and the investigative efforts of various organizations.

Gulf Breeze Sightings and Investigations The lead story highlights author Ed Walters, who is excited about his newly published work on UFO sightings over Gulf Breeze. Walters claims to have experienced an incident in Shoreline Park on May 1, 1988, where he lost consciousness for an hour after photographing a UFO. He also points to a 20-foot wide patch of tall grass swirled in a clockwise pattern as potential evidence of a landing. Walters states he has taken 39 photographs of three types of UFOs on 20 occasions, some using a NIMSLO stereo camera for a three-dimensional image.

The article notes that the McConnells believe they saw something on a July morning and that Shirley McConnell appeared on "A Current Affair" to discuss it. A growing number of Gulf Breeze residents, including a city councilwoman, a newspaper publisher, and law enforcement officers, have come forward with their own sightings. City Councilwoman Brenda Pollak described seeing a red light moving abruptly and changing directions rapidly on January 8, 1990, which she photographed.

Walter Andrus, director of Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), a group with 2,500 worldwide members, believes the photographs are real. Gulf Breeze Police Chief Jerry Brown, however, believes the community is split between believers and non-believers. He suggests that sightings can be explained by activity at area Navy and Air Force bases, or by a 'domino effect of hysteria' initiated by Walters' photos. Despite his skepticism, Brown keeps a file of UFO information in his office.

Investigator Rex Salisbury has confirmed 25 UFO sightings in the past year and is investigating six recent sightings over north Pensacola and Pensacola Bay. He notes that people are nervous to talk about sightings but believe what they are saying. Salisbury calls Northwest Florida a 'hot spot,' suggesting a connection to sensitive military bases. Duane Cook, publisher of the Gulf Breeze Sentinel, which first printed Walters' photos, states that the newspaper has sold 500 packages of copies documenting 77 UFO sightings since 1987.

UFOs and Scientific Inquiry Page 2 features an article about John Carpenter, a psychiatric social worker who heads the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) of Springfield. Carpenter emphasizes a serious, rational, and scientific approach to studying UFOs, discouraging those who speak from opinion and belief without data. The Springfield MUFON group consists of about 30 skeptical members who demand proof of alien spacecraft. Engineering technician Tom Strand, a field investigator, states that members must have the 'thing sitting in the back yard, and shaking hands' to believe.

Investigators interview people who claim to have seen UFOs or evidence of them, accumulating physical evidence. The local chapter has documented approximately 50 sightings in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas in the past year, with most occurring south of Springfield.

Carpenter highlights a case involving two St. Louis women who reported seeing a very bright object in the sky that descended to their car. They later remembered being elevated out of the car by a bright light to a spacecraft, describing a circulating room, lighting, and thin, white beings with large heads and dark eyes. The incident caused radio static and a loss of time, with the car's gas consumption reflecting only an hour's drive instead of three.

International UFO Reports Page 3 includes a report from Moscow, where Ukrainian astronomer Alexei Arkhipov claims to have detected mysterious radio emissions in the northern sky near the star Altair. He deduces that an alien civilization there has solved environmental problems by living on one planet and placing industry on another. These emissions are about 100 million times more powerful than Earth's solar energy, suggesting a highly advanced industrial society. The report speculates if these 'Altairians' are the same aliens seen in UFOs in the Soviet Union.

Another article details a UFO hunt in Belgium that failed to find an unidentified flying object. Airmen, scientists, and journalists joined the effort after a rash of sightings in eastern Belgium, where witnesses reported a UFO with three powerful lights forming a triangle. Despite descriptions being identical, the object did not appear on army radar screens, and an air force plane could not track it. Dozens of people on the ground witnessed the object, which was described as silent and luminous.

Letters to the Editor and Other Reports Letters to the Editor include a response from Edward N. Charbonneau, who criticizes the magazine's irreverent tone about UFO communications, claiming that UFOs are bombarding Earth with microwaves, altering weather, the ozone layer, and causing mutations. He asserts that world leaders know what is happening but are not ready to tell the public.

Chuck Robertson expresses enjoyment of a previous editorial on UFOs. A letter from Prof. S. Nodd suggests that 7414.9 kHz is the natural resonant frequency of the universe and the most likely channel for intergalactic emissions.

A report from the Houston Chronicle News Services mentions the 'Weird Insurance Tales' section, highlighting the UFO Abduction Insurance Company in Altamonte Springs, Florida. This company offers a $10 million policy for those kidnapped by aliens, costing $9.95, with a frequent-flier exclusion and a 'nutritional food source' clause.

Page 4 features an article titled "The course on UFOs doesn't rest" from the Grand Forks Herald, quoting Carl Sagan's skepticism about UFO reports lacking independent, reliable accounts of close encounters with alien spacecraft. It questions UND offering a course on the 'reality of UFOs and their extraterrestrial origins,' suggesting it might give credence to less scientific beliefs.

Another report from the Houston Chronicle details 'UFO fever' in Belgium, with numerous sightings of flying saucers over the past four months. A weekend watch organized by the Society for the Study of Space Phenomena, involving radar and observers, yielded no results on Friday night, but a silent, luminous, low-flying triangle was reported on Saturday night. Ten scientists and observers searched for an hour but found nothing.

A letter to the editor from the Fulton Democrat describes an unusual object seen by three people near Ipava, Illinois. They observed low-level lights that appeared unusual and out of character for an aircraft. The object was enormous, triangular, moved slowly, was silent, and had non-flashing lights. It was described as comparable to a football field in size. The incident also caused radio static. Poe H. Clark, MUFON State Section Director, notes that various UFO shapes have been reported in the area, and this triangle case is significant due to its visible outline and strangeness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The issue consistently presents a dichotomy between those who actively investigate and believe in UFOs, often citing eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence, and a more skeptical scientific and law enforcement perspective. There is a clear interest in the phenomenon, with organizations like MUFON actively gathering data and individuals sharing their experiences. The reports range from specific sightings in local communities to broader claims of alien civilizations and potential global impacts. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these diverse viewpoints and investigations, acknowledging both the public's fascination and the scientific community's caution.