APRO Bulletin - 1987 04 00 - Vol 33 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: THE A.P.R.O. BULLETIN
Issue: VOL. 33, NO. 4
Date: Published April, 1987
Publisher: AERIAL PHENOMENA RESEARCH ORGANIZATION, INC.
Country: U.S.A.

This issue of The APRO Bulletin is largely dedicated to an obituary for L. J. (Jim) Lorenzen, the organization's Director, who passed away at the age of 64 after a battle with cancer. The bulletin also features a list of papers presented at the UFOhio Symposium in June 1981, available for purchase from APRO Headquarters, and includes renewal notices for the bulletin subscription.

In Memoriam: L. J. (Jim) Lorenzen

The lead article announces the passing of L. J. (Jim) Lorenzen, APRO's Director, on August 28th. It describes him as one of the "real pioneers of UFO research" rather than a "media" personality. Born in Grand Meadow, Minnesota, in January 1922, Jim was one of nine children. He is survived by his wife, Coral, who is APRO's Secretary-Treasurer, a son Larry, a daughter Lesli Stryker, and four grandchildren. Lorenzen graduated high school in 1938 and pursued various careers, including musician, radio engineer, announcer, and supervisor of radar installation. He served in the Army Air Transport Command during World War II, earning multiple awards. After the war, he worked in electronics and technical services, eventually moving to Tucson, Arizona, in 1960 to work at Kitt Peak National Observatory.

In 1967, a back injury to his wife Coral limited her participation, leading Jim to take over as Director of APRO, a role he held until his death. He was instrumental in APRO's incorporation in 1967. His diverse talents extended to music, electronics, and research. He also founded 'Lorenzen Music Enterprises' specializing in sound systems and electronic instrument repair. In 1982, he took a position in the electronics division of the Chemistry Department at the University of Arizona, where he invented and constructed equipment. In his later years, he prepared for retirement and began making violins, working on an invention to improve the instrument. He was diagnosed with cancer in the fall of 1984.

UFOhio Symposium Papers

This section lists eight papers presented at the APRO UFOhio Symposium in June 1981, available from APRO Headquarters. The papers are priced at $0.10 per page plus postage. The listed papers and their authors are:

1. "Old Magic and New" - Robert F. Creegan, Ph.D. ($2.25)
2. “The Roswell Investigation, Update and Conclusions” - William L. Moore ($3.50)
3. "The Interrupted Journey Continued” - Betty Hill ($2.25)
4. “UFO Activity and Human Consciousness” - R. Leo Sprinkle ($2.75)
5. "The Night Surgeons" - Peter A. Jordan ($3.00)
6. "E.T.H. - Completing the Jigsaw” - L.J. Lorenzen ($2.00)
7. "UFO - The Cosmic Watergate" - Stanton T. Friedman ($2.75)
8. "Sociological Aspects of UFO Research” - Peter Van Arsdale, Ph.D. ($3.50)

Renewal Notice and Subscription Rates

The bulletin includes a renewal notice for members whose Volume and Issue Code 33/5 appears on their cover. It states that their computer scan card has been removed and they will receive no further issues until renewal. The renewal fees are listed as: U.S. - $21.00; Canada and Mexico - $22.00; Overseas surface mail - $25.00; and Overseas airmail - $27.50. A second notice will be sent, but members are encouraged to remit dues now to save expense. New annual rates for 12 issues are also listed: U.S. - $21.00, Canada & Mexico - $22.00, Overseas - $25.00, and Air Mail - $27.50.

Fond Remembrances

Several friends and family members share their memories of Jim Lorenzen. His daughter, Lesli Stryker, describes him as a "gentle soul, a spiritual man, a philosopher and a dreamer" who embraced life and encouraged her to "dream and learned that dreams can come true if you believe strongly enough and work hard enough." His son, Larry, recalls his father's presence during his childhood, teaching him without words. Coral E. Lorenzen shares her perspective, noting Jim's quiet nature, his multiplicity of talents, and his serious approach to work, though not to himself. She recounts their courtship and his serenading her with "St. James Infirmary." She expresses gratitude for having him as her "life's companion."

Other remembrances come from Bob Pratt, who valued Jim's honesty and fairness; Dick Ruhl, Sal Giamusso, Richard Petracca, Gerry Arena, and George and Jane Blydenburgh, who offer their love and support; John Musgrave, who hopes Coral will continue the work they promoted; Tom Deuley, who recognizes Jim's selfless contributions; Brad Sparks, who remembers Jim as a father figure; Sally Sheridan, who recalls his sense of humor and intelligence, particularly an "alien" mask incident; Max Calderwood, who respected his dedication to truth; Judith Magee, who notes his importance to UFO researchers; and Peter Sturrock, who suggests a celebration of Jim's life. Aime Michel expresses sympathy and faith that Jim now knows "everything." Dennis DeConcini, a U.S. Senator, offers his condolences, noting Jim's respected contributions to the community.

Clarification

Coral E. Lorenzen provides a clarification regarding a MUFON Journal obituary that mentioned a "renewed friendship" between Jim Lorenzen and Walt Andrus. Coral states firmly that Jim did not consider Walt Andrus a friend and that no such friendship existed. She describes Andrus as a "casual acquaintance" and notes that Jim had few, well-known friends.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue's primary theme is the memorialization of L. J. (Jim) Lorenzen, highlighting his significant contributions to UFO research and APRO. The editorial stance is one of respect and admiration for Lorenzen's dedication, integrity, and pioneering spirit in the field. The publication also aims to continue its work by offering symposium papers and maintaining its subscription base, as indicated by the renewal notices and the note about a new computer system being implemented for future issues. The emphasis is on continuing the research and investigation into UFO phenomena, even in the face of personal loss.