APRO Bulletin - 1977 02 00 - Vol 25 No 8

Magazine Overview

The APRO Bulletin, Vol. 25, No. 8, dated February 1977, is a publication of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. (APRO). This issue focuses on detailed investigative reports of UFO sightings and related phenomena, alongside announcements for upcoming events.

Tucson Occupant Case

The lead article details a significant UFO encounter that occurred on February 10, 1977, in Tucson, Arizona, involving witness Lois Stovall. Stovall observed an object described as capsule-shaped and cylindrical with blunt ends, hovering near her home. The object had a transparent section revealing a bright, flame-like light and a figure inside. The figure was described as being about the size of a 6-year-old boy, encased in a suit. The object ascended and moved away, exhibiting a golden color that made it easily trackable. The case is further complicated by reports of numerous helicopters in the area during the sighting, which local authorities stated were not officially deployed or on any missions that night.

Another witness, Mrs. Dessie Turner, observed a similar object from her home, describing it as a brilliantly luminous oblong object on the floor behind the glass front of a capsule-shaped craft. She estimated the craft to be about 6'6" high and 2'6" in diameter.

Soviets Publish UFO Articles

Field Investigator Tom Day reports on abstracts of three articles from the Current Digest of the Soviet Press. One article from Pravda discusses the Bermuda Triangle, dismissing 'mysterious forces' and suggesting UFO reports are 'myths dreamed up by capitalist newspapers'. Another article is an apparent response to an underground manuscript about UFOs, with the author opposing the idea that aliens are indistinguishable from humans, calling the extraterrestrial explanation a 'stupid rumor'.

Colusa (California) Close Encounter

This section provides an in-depth investigative report by Brad Sparks on a UFO sighting that occurred on September 10, 1976, near Colusa, California. The primary witness, Billy Vinson Pecha, Jr., reported a close encounter with a circular UFO. The incident began with a power outage at his home. Pecha observed a diffuse grayish-white illumination and then a large object hovering above the space between his house and a barn. The object was described as having a glazed-ceramic texture on its underside, with a translucent 'shaft' of light, six wavy cables, and two pincher-like appendages. The object was estimated to be about 50 feet off the ground.

As the UFO moved away, it emitted 'spotlight' lamps from openings on its rim. Pecha's detailed description and drawings helped investigators estimate the object's size and shape. The report also discusses the 'far encounter phase' where Pecha observed two more UFOs emitting light beams that illuminated power transmission towers. The object's dimensions and flight path were analyzed, suggesting a straight-line trajectory towards the mountains.

Later, Pecha's wife, Lenda, also observed a similar light, described as a bright, brilliant white light, descending rapidly. The report notes that the McGowen family, living nearly two miles away, also witnessed strange lights around the same time, which they initially mistook for aircraft lights.

First International UFO Congress

An announcement is made for the First International UFO Congress to be held in Chicago at the Pick-Congress Hotel from June 24-26, 1977. The congress, sponsored by Curtis Fuller, publisher of Fate Magazine, aims to bring together researchers and enthusiasts to discuss various UFO-related topics, including CIA cover-ups, paraphysical hypotheses, evidence for UFOs, propulsion systems, and historical sightings. Kenneth Arnold, who reported the first famous UFO sighting, will be a featured speaker and honored guest. A list of notable speakers and participants is provided, including Betty Hill, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Jacques Vallee, and others. The cost for the three-day congress is $30 on registration day or $25 with advance reservations.

The Ball-Of-Light Phenomenon

This article by John DeHerrara, APRO Field Investigator, explores the phenomenon of 'balls-of-light'. The author recounts historical reports, including Allied fliers in World War II who named them 'Foo Fighters', and Charles Richet's 1906 report. DeHerrara shares a personal encounter involving his great uncle. He emphasizes that these objects are typically described as small, round, and controlled by an intelligent source. The article highlights the Brian Scott case, where a man under hypnosis described an encounter with a ball-of-light that entered his house and caused him to enter a trance.

DeHerrara appeals to readers to supply information on any ball-of-light sightings or knowledge of the phenomenon.

Object Observed by the R.C.M.P.

Glenn R. Duiven reports on an incident on October 8, 1976, near 103, British Columbia, Canada. A member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (R.C.M.P.) and a passenger observed a UFO approaching from the northwest at high speed. The object had red and blue lights and hovered over a local pub and store for approximately 12 minutes before disappearing to the northeast. No noise was detected, and the witnesses noted the object's speed suggested it was not a man-made vehicle capable of hovering.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The APRO Bulletin consistently focuses on detailed, eyewitness accounts of UFO sightings and related phenomena, presenting them as subjects worthy of serious investigation. The publication appears to maintain a stance of open inquiry into these events, providing platforms for researchers and witnesses to share their experiences and findings. The articles often include technical details, witness testimonies, and investigative analysis, suggesting a commitment to understanding the nature of these unexplained occurrences. The emphasis on detailed reporting and the inclusion of scientific and academic perspectives indicate a desire to approach the subject matter with rigor. The recurring theme is the presentation of evidence and testimony related to UFOs, occupants, and unexplained aerial phenomena, encouraging further study and information sharing among its readership.