THE A.P.R.O. BULLETIN

Magazine Overview

The A.P.R.O. Bulletin - November-December 1972

This issue of The A.P.R.O. Bulletin, Volume 21, Number 3, published by the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization Inc., covers several significant UFO-related events and discussions. It includes detailed reports on a car failure and sighting in Wisconsin, an incident in Nogales, Arizona, and a confrontation between an APRO investigator and Werner Von Braun.

The Faltersack Case

The issue details the experience of Greg Faltersack, an 18-year-old from southern Wisconsin, who reported a car failure on August 21, 1972. While driving at 50 mph, his car's engine suddenly cut off, resulting in a complete electrical failure and a skid. After recovering from the shock, he heard a two-tone electrical sound and then saw a round orange object, estimated to be 40-50 feet in diameter, about 40-50 feet above the trees. The object moved away and up, emitting a rushing air sound. Faltersack's car had difficulty starting, and it was later discovered that all fuses were blown and the engine was overheated. The report notes that Faltersack had no prior issues with the car's overheating, but it read 220 degrees afterwards. His sister, a UFO enthusiast, convinced him to report the incident. The investigating officers believed his story.

Von Braun Challenged

This section recounts an event at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro where Werner Von Braun, a famous German rocket expert, was questioned about UFOs. Von Braun stated that only 3% of UFO reports were not explained as misconceptions, and the remaining 3% were hallucinations. Mrs. Granchi, an APRO Field Investigator, then challenged Von Braun, asking if he was aware of Dr. J. Allen Hynek's recent book that disagreed with his statements. Von Braun admitted he was not aware of the book. Mrs. Granchi also asked if he knew about an APRO UFO Symposium held at the University of Arizona, which he also did not know about. Von Braun eventually admitted he was not up-to-date on the subject, humorously suggesting he should disqualify himself as a UFO expert. The Associated Press and United Press International later interviewed Mrs. Granchi and the Lorenzens, respectively.

Incident at Nogales, Arizona

This article describes a strange event in Nogales, Arizona, on August 20, 1972. Mrs. Helen Sutherlin was awakened by her dog's howling and observed a bluish-silver light illuminating her bedroom. Upon investigating, she heard a peculiar droning sound and saw an oval-shaped light source bathing the city. The light flashed on and off for about 30 minutes. Shortly after, the city's power failed. Marco Flores, a young businessman, also reported seeing a lighted area in the sky around 3:20-3:30 a.m., which appeared to be traveling. He also heard a humming sound. The city lights went out, and later, an explosion occurred, which was identified as the local power plant. Mr. John Gleeson also reported a 'ball of fire' in the sky before the power failed, and later found the power plant on fire. Mrs. Consuelo Corrales and her husband witnessed a silver-colored rainbow or halo of light and heard a buzzing sound just before the explosion. The article discusses the possibility that the power plant explosion was caused by arson intended as a diversion for drug smuggling, but concludes that the UFO sightings were likely coincidental to the power failure.

Book Review: UFOs: A Scientific Debate

Dr. John S. Derr reviews 'UFOs: A Scientific Debate,' a compilation of proceedings from an AAAS Symposium held in Boston in 1969. The book is praised for its comprehensive scientific approach to the UFO phenomenon, covering various hypotheses and attitudes. It is considered a valuable resource for serious students of UFOs, offering a more responsible treatment than the Condon Report. The review highlights key papers, including those addressing the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), the nature of scientific evidence, and sociological perspectives. It contrasts the views of believers like J. Allen Hynek with skeptics like Donald H. Menzel, who considers UFOs a modern myth. The review concludes that the book is a classic and will be widely referenced.

UFOs And The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis

Dr. Philip Seff, an APRO consultant in Geology, discusses the probability of extraterrestrial life and its potential connection to UFOs. He notes that astronomers estimate billions of planets could support life. He argues that imposing Earth's evolutionary rate and concept of time on potential extraterrestrial civilizations is audacious, as they might be millions of years ahead. Therefore, the hypothesis of an extraterrestrial origin for UFOs is presented as plausible.

Other Sections

APRO Bulletin Staff and Representatives

The issue lists the APRO staff, including International Director L. J. Lorenzen and Editor Coral E. Lorenzen, along with numerous international representatives and consulting panels in various scientific fields.

Thank You and Suggestions

APRO expresses gratitude to members for holiday greetings and suggests that members in countries with limited UFO literature should help disseminate information about APRO and its goals.

Membership Continues To Climb

The organization reports a steady increase in membership, with 50 new members per month, partly due to articles in local newspapers.

Italian, Japanese Books

Mr. and Mrs. Lorenzen's books, 'UFOS The Whole Story' and 'Flying Saucer Occupants,' are scheduled for publication in Japan and Italy, respectively.

Press Reports

Brief reports on UFO sightings in Venezuela (March 1970), Brazil (August 1971), and off the coast of Chile (May 1972) are included.

Notice To All Field Investigators

Information is provided regarding the Recommended Procedures for APRO Field Investigators (RPFI) and the availability of a new comprehensive UFO Sighting Report Form.

New Book By APRO Consultant

Dr. Robert S. Ellwood, APRO's Consultant in Religion, has authored a new book titled 'Religous and Spiritual Groups in Modern America,' which includes a chapter on UFO cults.

Back Bulletins Available

A list of available back issues of The A.P.R.O. Bulletin is provided for members and subscribers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO sightings, the scientific and skeptical analysis of UFO phenomena, and the promotion of APRO's work and membership. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and scientific investigation while also acknowledging and challenging skeptical viewpoints. The publication aims to provide a platform for sharing information, fostering discussion, and advancing the understanding of UFOs.