APCIC - Vol 15 No 09 - 1990

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO NEWS
Issue: Volume 15, No. 9
Date: September 1990
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER
Location: Cleveland, Ohio, USA

This issue of UFO NEWS delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, military concerns, archaeological discoveries, and scientific investigations. It features reports from different sources, including news services and personal accounts, reflecting a broad interest in unexplained aerial phenomena.

Soviets Fear Threat of Space Invaders

The lead article, "Soviets Fear Threat of Space Invaders" by David Wood, reports on the Soviet Union's military air defenses struggling with a new perceived threat: flying saucers. Dozens of sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) with blinking lights and high-speed maneuvers have been reported, with some eyewitness accounts allegedly corroborated by ground surveillance radars. Igor Maltsev, chief of the main staff of the Air Defense Forces, indicated his supposition that UFOs exist and are piloted by extraterrestrials, possibly not friendly ones. The article cites specific incidents, such as a milk tanker truck driver in May who was followed by a shining ball, and reports of UFOs probing in Estonia, hovering over Dalnegorsk, and harassing police near Krasnoyarsk with colored lights. The article contrasts this with the U.S. Air Force's cessation of UFO investigations over 20 years prior, highlighting the heightened sensitivity in Soviet air defense following a 1987 incident where a West German pilot flew a Cessna into Soviet airspace unmolested.

Golden Calf of 1550 B.C. Canaanites Unearthed

By Joel Brinkley, this article details the discovery by Harvard University archaeologists in Ashkelon, Israel, of a "golden calf" artifact. This object of worship dates from the second millennium B.C. and is made of bronze and other metals. It was found in the rubble of a temple destroyed around 1550 B.C. The find is significant as it provides evidence to explain religious development in the region and is similar in form to golden calves mentioned in the Bible. Dr. Lawrence E. Stager, head of the excavation team, described it as a "totally unexpected find." The calf is approximately 4 1/2 inches long, 4 1/4 inches tall, and weighs under one pound.

Four Evil-Eyed Creatures Came in Bullet-Shaped Starship, Farmer Claims

This report features the account of Enrique Cedillo, a 53-year-old farmer from Fresnillo, Mexico, who claims his wife was kidnapped by aliens and his hunting dog was eaten. Cedillo alleges that a bullet-shaped spacecraft landed on his farm on May 21, and four "evil-eyed creatures" emerged. He claims he was paralyzed and unable to intervene as the aliens took his wife, Carmen, 61, and killed and consumed his dog. The aliens reportedly left behind a strange metal glove. Authorities in Fresnillo confirmed Cedillo reported the incident but would not comment on whether it was under investigation. Military officials also examined the glove but remained silent.

Cow Pregnant with a Space Alien's Child

This sensational report from the SUN newspaper details the case of a cow named Jazim, believed by "amazed scientists" to be pregnant with an unearthly fetus after allegedly being abducted by a flying saucer. Farmer Lotz Mahmet claims he saw an orange glow and a beam of light descend on his cow. The cow reportedly floated into a saucer-shaped object and disappeared, later reappearing. Professor Radzwil Arikan, a veterinary researcher, stated that ultrasound pictures show the fetus has two hearts, larger than normal eyes, and appears to have webbed feet. The cow is being kept in a university laboratory for observation.

UFO Expert Claims: 5 Miracle Cures - By Space Aliens

This article by Brad Steiger, author of "The UFO Abductors," presents several cases where individuals claim to have been healed by aliens. Steiger, who has gathered accounts for 25 years, highlights five cases: a woman farmer (Mrs. M) whose infected hand healed instantly after an encounter with a luminous egg-shaped object; an 80-year-old Brazilian farmer who grew new teeth after abduction by small men in a silver craft; Bertram, who experienced his enlarged liver shrink after being caught in a beam of light from a UFO; Mae M from Mississippi, who overcame crippling joint pain after an alien examination; and Richard T, who recovered from a nerve disease after a UFO encounter.

Looking for the Lively on the Outer Space Shelf

This section reviews recent UFO-related books. It highlights "Out There: The Government's Secret Quest for Extraterrestrials" by Howard Blum, which investigates a secret government panel called the UFO Working Group. "The Watchers: The Secret Design Behind UFO Abduction" by Raymond E. Fowler is also mentioned, postulating advanced "watchers" observing mankind. Other books reviewed include "First Contact: The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence," "The Gulf Breeze Sightings," "The UFO Cover-up: What the Government Won't Say," and "Unexplained Mysteries of the 20th Century." The review notes the continued public fascination with UFOs, partly fueled by authors like Whitley Strieber.

UFO Field Con't

This continuation discusses Howard Blum's book, "Out There," and the government's UFO Working Group. It notes that while the group has investigated sightings, it hasn't found definitive proof, and the mystery ultimately relies on a "leap of faith." The section also touches upon Raymond E. Fowler's theory of "watchers" and his own alleged abduction experience after investigating Betty Andreasson Luca's case. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the book's premise.

UFO Terror Sweeps Central America

This report details widespread panic in Central American nations like Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua due to sightings of circular-shaped objects with bright red lights. Hundreds of UFO sightings are reported nightly, causing massive traffic jams. Dr. Julio Samuel suggests aliens might be returning to re-establish contact with the Mayans, possibly looking for Tikal. While some attribute sightings to drug traffickers, the Guatemalan government is taking the crisis seriously, establishing observation posts but failing to track the aircraft. Air traffic controllers have reported erratic radar patterns.

Venus Probe May Find Earth Secrets of an Alien Terrain

This article discusses NASA's Magellan spacecraft, which has entered orbit around Venus. The spacecraft's radar is expected to pierce Venus' clouds to reveal secrets of its alien terrain, potentially offering insights into Earth's early history. Scientists believe Venus, being similar in size and density to Earth and the closest planet, may have had similar conditions when they formed. The study of Venus' crust movement and deformation could help answer fundamental questions about Earth's early geological history, including the formation of its continents and mountain ranges.

Australian Scientists Report: Astronomers Pick Up Message From Space

This report by Francis Shifflett claims Australian astronomers have made contact with space aliens by radio. Dr. Herbert Bockris, director of the project, states that their new radio telescope, located in the southern hemisphere, has been monitoring over nine million radio channels. Within hours of operation, they detected repeating patterns interpreted as alien messages. The transmission reportedly changed from beeps to a "moaning" sound, described as an "alien voice" speaking in an unknown language, which Dr. Bockris assumes is a message of peace. The broadcast has been taped and is being analyzed, with scientists attempting to pinpoint the distant planet sending the signals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of UFO NEWS include the serious consideration of UFOs by governmental and military bodies (particularly in the Soviet Union), the intersection of UFO phenomena with archaeology and ancient history (as seen in the golden calf article), personal testimonies of alien encounters and alleged abductions with claims of miraculous healing, and scientific endeavors to understand space and potential extraterrestrial life. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, presenting a mix of official reports, expert opinions, and anecdotal evidence without outright dismissal, though some articles express skepticism towards certain claims.

This issue of THE PLAIN DEALER, dated Saturday, July 14, 1990, and also referencing the Orlando Sentinel from April 15, 1990, and USA TODAY from July 6, 1990, delves into the intriguing and often baffling world of UFOs, crop circles, and alleged alien encounters. The publication explores various theories, personal testimonies, and scientific perspectives surrounding these phenomena, touching upon both the mundane and the extraordinary.

Wheat's Up, Doc? The Mystery of Crop Circles

The cover story, "WHEAT'S UP, DOC?", tackles the perplexing phenomenon of giant pictures appearing overnight in farmers' fields. Scientists are baffled, considering possibilities ranging from messages from outer space and the work of hoaxers to more unusual theories like "sex-mad hedgehogs." The article highlights the scale of these formations, noting that one farmer estimated it would take 40,000 hedgehogs to create a single circle in one night. Suggestions for responsible parties include thugs on motorbikes, kids with lawnmowers, and giant UFOs. Farmer Geoff Cooper recounts how neighbors blamed mating hedgehogs, but his calculations dismissed this. He also contacted a local military base, which suggested a helicopter could only create such shapes if flying upside down and stationary. Colin Andres, an electrical engineer, links the circles to a high number of UFO sightings in the area, suggesting they are "elaborate pictograms created by some sort of intelligent life force." He mentions reports of amber lights hovering before circles appeared. Physicist Dr. Terence Meaden proposes a scientific explanation involving a "spinning ball of air" creating the formations, while Jenny Randles believes a "powerful electronic force field" is responsible, citing eyewitness accounts of skin burning and hair standing on end. A $10,000 prize is offered for solving the mystery, with farmers reportedly charging visitors for access to the sites.

Science Notebook: Man Has All the Time in the World to Probe Stars

Ron Haybron's "Science Notebook" column reflects on the delays with the Hubble Space Telescope and connects it to the broader quest of understanding the universe. He discusses Edwin Hubble's work in establishing that the Milky Way is just one of many galaxies. This was achieved by studying "Cepheid variables," stars whose brightness fluctuates predictably, allowing astronomers to calculate distances. Hubble's observation of a Cepheid in the Andromeda nebula proved it was a separate galaxy, millions of light-years away. This work implied the universe is expanding, leading to the Big Bang theory. The Hubble telescope's future repairs aim to improve distance measurements, aiding in determining the universe's age and fate.

They're Baaaack: The Ed Walters UFO Story

This section details the story of Ed Walters, a building contractor from Gulf Breeze, Florida, who claims to have had multiple UFO encounters and taken numerous Polaroid photographs of alien spacecraft. The narrative describes the aliens as "rude" but not overtly malevolent, communicating telepathically and using a "blue beam." Walters' story gained significant attention, leading to a book deal and a substantial advance. Despite some skepticism and attempts at debunking, including theories that the photos were of a "ghost" or a double exposure prank, Walters maintains his story. Bruce Macabee, a physicist, has been a strong proponent of Walters' claims, though his scientific objectivity has been questioned due to his financial stake in the book's proceeds. The article notes that even if debunked, public belief in such phenomena may persist.

What Happens to People Captured by UFOs

This article highlights three women who claim to have been abducted by aliens: Jackie Blue, Betty Luca, and Ida Kannenberg. Their experiences, often recalled under hypnosis, involve physical examinations, interplanetary travel, and the development of psychic abilities. Jackie Blue claims to predict future events and sense impending disaster. Betty Luca describes traveling to "other planets" and dimensions, encountering creatures with "two stalks for heads," and receiving a mysterious book. Ida Kannenberg, though not detailing her abduction, is presented as someone who remembers nothing until hypnosis. The article notes that scientists are examining these claims at the Rocky Mountain Conference on UFO Investigation.

Soviet Military Fears Threat of Flying Saucer Invasion

This report from THE PLAIN DEALER discusses the Soviet Union's military air defenses grappling with a new perceived threat: a "seemingly apparent invasion by flying saucers." Dozens of sightings of unidentified flying objects, described as disc-shaped spacecraft with blinking lights and performing high-speed maneuvers, have been reported by Soviet interceptor pilots and corroborated by ground surveillance. General Igor Maltsev of the Air Defense Forces suggests UFOs exist and are piloted by potentially unfriendly extraterrestrials. The article mentions specific incidents, including a UFO following a milk tanker truck, and reports of UFOs probing a gas pipeline in Siberia and hovering over Dalnegorsk. The Soviet explanation for this heightened interest is the potential pursuit of Russia's natural resources. The report contrasts this with the U.S. Air Force's cessation of UFO investigations over 20 years prior, noting that the Soviets, unlike the U.S., are taking these reports seriously, especially in light of past security breaches like the 1987 Cessna incident.

In Florida, the Talk is UFOs

This USA TODAY article focuses on Gulf Breeze, Florida, a town experiencing a high number of UFO sightings. It mentions Ed Walters, whose claims and photographs have drawn attention. The article notes that while many credible people report seeing UFOs, skepticism remains, with some suggesting hoaxes. A homemade model resembling a 1950s science fiction saucer was found in Walters' former home, which he denies is his. The Texas-based Mutual UFO Network officially supports Walters' photographs. The article also touches on the upcoming International Symposium of the Mutual UFO Network in Pensacola, highlighting the local entrepreneurial response to the UFO phenomenon.

She's Got a Ticket to Ride... to Other Planets.

This WOMANS WORLD WEEKLY article profiles Betty Luca, a Massachusetts housewife who, after years of unusual behavior like speaking in tongues and writing complex formulas, revealed under hypnosis her alleged experiences of alien abduction and interplanetary travel. She describes encounters with gray-skinned creatures and journeys through various "zones" with strange sights. Her story is presented as a case study in alleged alien abduction, with investigators and a physician involved in her hypnosis sessions. The article also mentions her meeting her current husband, Bob, also an alleged UFO abductee.

If people who 'see' UFOs aren't nuts. What are they?

This article from WOMANS WORLD WEEKLY explores the psychological profile of individuals who claim to see UFOs or experience abductions. Research suggests these individuals are typically normal, intelligent, and imaginative, described as "experimental thinkers" concerned with social issues. The article questions whether these beliefs, while perhaps not factually accurate, are genuine for the believers. It highlights that a significant percentage of Americans believe in UFOs. The piece also touches upon the commonality of "post-abduction" symptoms, such as missing time and the need for hypnosis to recall experiences, and mentions the work of UFO investigators and authors in this field.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles revolve around the persistent human fascination with the unknown, particularly concerning UFOs and unexplained aerial phenomena. There's a clear dichotomy presented between scientific skepticism and the fervent belief of eyewitnesses and enthusiasts. The articles explore the psychological underpinnings of belief, suggesting that those who report such experiences are not necessarily delusional but may possess unique cognitive traits. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives—from scientific explanations and debunking efforts to personal testimonies and the implications for societal belief systems. The Soviet Union's official concern adds a geopolitical dimension to the UFO discourse, suggesting the phenomenon is taken seriously at high levels. Overall, the issue encourages readers to consider the possibility of the unexplained while also acknowledging the potential for hoaxes and misinterpretations.

This issue of The Plain Dealer, dated June 29, 1990, features a prominent cover story with the headline: "'It was about three meters tall, with three eyes and -'", hinting at a UFO or alien encounter. The issue delves into the changing media landscape in the Soviet Union under glasnost and explores the phenomenon of UFO sightings in both Soviet and Canadian contexts.

Soviet Society and the Rise of Sensationalism (By Andrew Jenks)

Andrew Jenks, writing from Moscow, observes a significant shift in Soviet media consumption driven by glasnost. He notes that while political reform is welcomed, many Soviets are weary of constant soul-searching and instead seek more visceral content. This has led to a surge in interest in topics previously suppressed, such as crime, drug addiction, and historical purges. Jenks highlights that UFO encounters and sightings of creatures like Bigfoot have become particularly popular, eclipsing even the 'big four' sensational topics.

Jenks recounts the phenomenon of the "Moscow Evening News" police report, which details crimes and arrests, becoming a daily staple for readers. He also touches upon the rise of faith healers and individuals claiming extrasensory perception, drawing parallels to the mysticism surrounding Rasputin and the decadent atmosphere of the late Romanov Empire. The article suggests that in a competitive media environment, news organs are increasingly catering to collective whims and fantasies rather than serving as watchdogs.

A specific incident is detailed: a 6-year-old eyewitness in the Russian city of Voronezh reported an alien landing, describing a three-meter-tall being with three eyes and silver boots. This event sparked televised discussions, the formation of 'alien' fan clubs, and even a radio show dedicated to aliens, with hosts advising listeners not to panic.

Jenks concludes that the sensationalist metamorphosis of the Soviet media reflects the desires of the populace, suggesting that people get the kind of press they deserve when market forces dictate content.

Do ETs Avoid Canadians? (By Dwight Whalen)

In a contrasting article, Dwight Whalen, a freelance writer, speculates on why Canada might be less of a focus for UFO activity and alien contact compared to the United States. He references the late UFO investigator Dr. J. Allen Hynek, who claimed Canada had a high number of UFO sightings per capita. However, Whalen questions why, if UFOs are alien spacecraft, ETs appear to avoid direct contact or abductions in Canada.

Whalen proposes that Canadians might be perceived as 'boring' by extraterrestrials. He examines the "Great Airship Mystery" of 1896-97, where thousands of Americans reported seeing mysterious airships, but similar sightings were rare in Canada. He investigated Toronto newspapers from October 5, 1896, the date of a newspaper found near a mysterious object that fell in Flint, Michigan, as suggested by an article in "Flying Saucer Review." Whalen found the Toronto papers to be exceptionally dull, reporting mundane events like parliamentary closings, fair round-ups, and a minor incident involving a squirrel causing a horse to swerve.

He suggests that the ETs, having formed an impression of Canadian 'boringness' from such historical events, continue to avoid contact. Despite this, Whalen acknowledges that ETs might still be attracted to Canada's vast geography and natural beauty, even if they are not interested in the 'latest news about Canadians and our wreckless squirrels.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights a fascination with the unexplained and the sensational, both in the Soviet Union and, by contrast, in Canada. The editorial stance appears to be one of observation and analysis, contrasting the dramatic societal shifts and media trends in the USSR with a more subdued Canadian experience. There's an underlying theme of how media reflects and shapes public interest, particularly in times of social and political change. The articles suggest that a craving for the extraordinary, whether real or imagined, is a powerful force in shaping public discourse and media content.