the apro bulletin

Magazine Overview

Title: The APRO Bulletin
Issue: Vol. 31, No. 6
Date: August 1965
Publisher: A.P.R.O. (Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc.)
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The APRO Bulletin focuses on corroborating UFO reports from August 1965, alongside other significant cases and discussions relevant to UFO investigation.

August 1965 Case Corroboration?

The lead article, dated August 1965, highlights a busy period for UFO reports, particularly in the "panhandles" of Oklahoma and Texas. A notable case involves newsman Bob Campbell of Sherman, Texas, who photographed a globe-shaped object on the Oklahoma-Texas border on August 2, 1965. However, the object seen by witnesses was not exactly what was photographed. Charles L. Green, a Tucson businessman formerly of Canyon, Texas, recounted an experience his family and friends had with a UFO around 12:30 a.m. on August 1 or 2, 1965. While driving to a family dock on Palo Duro Creek, Green's car suddenly died, and the lights went out. While waiting, they observed a red and white light approaching, which Green initially thought was a police vehicle. The object then emitted a piercing bluish-white beam, causing terror among the witnesses. Green described the object as approaching and wobbling. He and Bob Jolley were momentarily paralyzed, while Tom Seay was behind them. The light dimmed, leaving only a buzzing noise and red and white flashers. The craft then moved away towards the cabin area. Upon returning to the cabin, Green's cousin, Soeurette, and Mrs. Charles A. Green, confirmed seeing a similar object, which had approached their house and rested on a knoll.

Looking Back - At Adamski

This section, by Coral E. Lorenzen, revisits the experiences of George Adamski. In 1951, the Lorenzen family, interested in UFO reports, was contacted by Ross Graham after Coral wrote a letter to a newspaper about a "flying saucer" sighting. They learned of "Professor George Adamski" and decided to visit him. They found Adamski at a small restaurant on Mt. Palomar, where he displayed photos of alleged flying saucers. Adamski, described as charming, spoke of his confidential correspondence with the U.S. Air Force and claimed access to the Palomar Observatory's Schmidt telescope. He hinted at a government cover-up to prevent public panic about "interplanetary visitors," suggesting they came from Venus. The author notes that books by Frank Scully and Donald Keyhoe on similar topics were already published. Adamski theorized that UFO pilots might be repopulating planets. The visit left the Lorenzens with serious doubts, particularly after Adamski twice referred to the Moon as a planet, a significant astronomical error. Two months later, the Lorenzens moved to Wisconsin, and Coral corresponded with Adamski, purchasing some of his early photos. By early 1952, photographer Herb Reynolds demonstrated how Adamski's photos were manufactured using hand-held props. A letter to the Director of the Palomar Observatory revealed that Adamski's claims had caused considerable embarrassment and led the observatory to deny his association.

Microcomputers and UFO Investigators

Sally Sheridan's two-part series concludes with an examination of future uses for microcomputers in UFO investigation. The article suggests establishing a database accessible via modem, similar to stock market data services. This would allow investigators to track UFO sightings worldwide and respond quickly to events in their areas. It also proposes using data banks for research and employing 'electronic mail' for investigators to share information and collaborate on cases. Furthermore, microcomputers could be used for training new investigators through tutorials and simulations, providing hypothetical scenarios and feedback. The author emphasizes the need to explore new ways to investigate cases, organize information, and share findings, with computers playing a crucial role.

Follow-Up: The 'Wow Signal'

This section provides an update on a previously mentioned television program about ETI contact via radio telescope. Lynn Hutchinson forwarded information about the 'Big Ear' radio observatory at Ohio Wesleyan University. The article then details the discovery of the "other worldly signal" (the 'Wow Signal') in 1977 by the Ohio State Radio Observatory. The signal, detected during a routine sweep, was a brief surge of strength followed by an 'echo'. Scientists favored an extraterrestrial hypothesis due to the signal's uniqueness and inability to be reacquired. The graph of the signal's intensity over time is included.

UFO "Cluster" Over Turkey

On September 8, 1982, hundreds of witnesses in Ankara, Turkey, reported seeing a cluster of 10 to 15 bright objects flying in formation, led by a brighter object. The objects moved SE to NW and were visible for 15 to 30 seconds. While meteorites were suggested, professors Cemal Aydin and Etham Derman rejected this, speculating about a stray satellite or atmospheric entry. The lights were also observed in Istanbul.

Bell-Shape Over California

On March 19, 1983, Mrs. Anita Escamilla of Buena Park, California, reported seeing a large, immense, bell-shaped object hanging from a horizontal bar, described as very bright with no noise. Her friend, Mrs. Gail Sifventes, also witnessed the object, describing it as a large, yellowish-orange ball of light. The object moved and then disappeared. Field Investigator Robert Achzehner handled the case, noting that the object was seen in a densely populated area but apparently only by these witnesses. The object was estimated to be as large as a 6 to 8 inch disc held at arm's length.

Betty Hill Takes Polygraph Test

Betty Hill, known for the 1961 Barney and Betty Hill abduction case, underwent a polygraph test in Hollywood in May 1983 concerning her experience. The results were to be broadcast on the television show "Lie Detector," though the show's future was uncertain.

Computer Project

APRO Headquarters is proposing the purchase of a "home-computer" to manage its files and interface with field investigators, following Sally Sheridan's proposal. The organization has seen a slow but steady increase in membership and renewals since 1981, making this investment feasible. The article appeals to members for contributions of $1.00 or more to fund this project and requests suggestions for suitable computers.

Krmelj Reports From Yugoslavia

Milos Krmelj, APRO's Representative for Yugoslavia, forwards reports from March 1979. One interesting case involved a young woman, H.Z. (who wished to remain anonymous), who reported a close encounter near Radenci. While driving, she saw a multi-colored object (red, green, blue, orange) that appeared to be flying from somewhere. The object illuminated a building green as it descended low. The object then diminished in size and moved parallel with her car. The encounter is classified as a close encounter of the first kind. The car experienced electrical disturbances, including the engine not starting the next morning, which were attributed to the car's age but also raised questions about electromagnetic influence. A second witness, an older teacher from Apace, saw a flat object resembling two yellow-red saucers facing each other with a dim tail. This sighting is classified as night lights. The difference in descriptions between the two witnesses is noted as a potential issue, suggesting either different viewing positions, a changing object, or two objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the corroboration of UFO sightings, suggesting that multiple witnesses and photographic evidence lend credibility to reports. There's a clear skepticism towards sensationalized claims, particularly highlighted in the Adamski case, where evidence of hoaxing is presented. The magazine also embraces technological advancements, such as microcomputers, as tools for serious UFO investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent research, critical analysis, and the pursuit of evidence-based understanding of the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence, as suggested by the 'Wow Signal' report. The publication also emphasizes the importance of member participation and financial support for APRO's research efforts.