UFO Canada - vol 2 no 1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO CANADA
Issue Date: January 1978
Volume: Two, Number One
Publisher: UFO CANADA
Country of Publication: Canada
ISSN: 282104

This issue of UFO CANADA, dated January 1978, presents a collection of articles and reports related to UFO phenomena, emphasizing a scientific approach to investigation and analysis. The cover prominently features a drawing of a bell-shaped UFO and highlights a close encounter reported in St. Martine, Quebec.

Editorial

By Howard Gontovnick, Editor

The editorial notes the resurgence of public interest in UFOs, largely fueled by recent popular films like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "Starships Invasion." Gontovnick observes that these films have inspired a wave of media attention, including newspaper articles, magazine features, and radio programs dedicated to the topic. He acknowledges the potential for an influx of sightings due to this heightened awareness. The editor also comments on the directors' efforts to illustrate the authenticity of UFO encounters based on past reports, stating that the films were made for entertainment purposes and not as definitive reviews. He suggests that the "UFO craze" might dissipate, similar to past trends, but also notes that such phenomena bring disadvantages to UFO researchers.

Contents

The table of contents outlines the articles featured in this issue:

• CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH SOME UNUSUAL UFOs by Robert Sapienza (Page 5)
• SEVEN MAXIMS OF UFOs: A SCIENTIFIC APPROACH Part 7 by Peter Millman (Page 14)
• WHAT IS UFO STUDY by Francis King (Page 16)
• FOLLOW UP ON LANDING TRACES FOUND IN MANITOBA by Howard Gontovnick & Robert Sapienza (Page 15)
• UFOLOGY TODAY (Page 17)
• CANADIAN SIGHTINGS (Page 20)
• WORLD SIGHTINGS (Page 21)
• BOOKSHELF (Page 23)
• EDITORIAL (Page 3)

Close Encounters with Some Unusual UFOs

By Robert Sapienza (Page 5)

This article details several UFO sightings in the Montreal area that were under investigation. It reviews a previous report of two UFOs sighted over the north-western area of Montreal by a family, possibly verified by other witnesses. The article then focuses on three specific cases from late October and early November 1977:

1. St. Martine, Quebec (October 23, 1977): Mrs. Jessie B. reported seeing a bell-shaped object, approximately 2-3 feet in height and 20 feet in diameter, hovering motionless about 150 feet above the ground. The object emitted a hissing sound and white vapor from two tube-like protrusions. The object's description is detailed, noting its aluminum appearance, large window areas resembling smoked glass, and hemispherical appendages on the underside. The witness was concerned about potential harmful rays if it landed. Her daughter, Carol F., also witnessed the object circling the area. The case is considered a Close Encounter of the first kind. The article notes that no photographs were taken, and animal behavior was reportedly normal.

2. Highway 417 near Ottawa, Ontario (October 30, 1977): A family of five (Mr. and Mrs. Z. and their three children) reported seeing a flashing object that moved at fantastic speed. The object was described as dome-shaped at the top, with a red glare and an aura of smoke. The witnesses, including the 15-year-old son Michael, initially considered it might be an aircraft, but its maneuvers, including hovering and moving back and forth, were inconsistent with known aerodynamic performance. The possibility of a military experimental craft is mentioned, but the article concludes that the object must be classified as "UNKNOWN" due to a lack of physical evidence.

3. Ile Ferrot, Quebec (November 3, 1977): Mr. and Mrs. Michel P. observed a formation of five very bright lights, estimated to be 10 times brighter than stars and five times larger. The lights formed a V formation and performed complex maneuvers, flying at approximately five times the speed of an aircraft. Diagrams (Figure #2a-2e) illustrate the objects' movements, including one object moving towards the witness, pausing, and then moving away, followed by others disappearing in sequence. The objects were described as having three white lights each.

The article also mentions that Howard Gontovnick and Robert Sapienza planned to visit the St. Martine area for further investigation.

Seven Maxims of UFOs: A Scientific Approach

By Peter Millman (Page 14)

This installment (Maxim No. 6) focuses on "MAN MAKES MYSTERIOUS MACHINES." Millman argues that many widely publicized UFO sightings are actually the result of little-known or misunderstood man-made equipment. He cites examples such as high-altitude balloons, flare tests, chemical releases, satellite re-entries, and aircraft landing lights. The article suggests that increased public awareness due to the space program leads people to look up more often, contributing to misidentifications. Millman also points out that factors like wind, the observer's location (inside or outside), and proximity to traffic can affect sound perception, making it a less reliable indicator for identifying aircraft. The next issue will cover "MAXIM NO.7 Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven?"

What is UFO Study

By Frances King (Page 16)

Frances King discusses the nature and methodology of UFO study. She notes that only a small percentage of reported sightings can be verified, but this subset is significant enough to warrant serious investigation. The article criticizes the unorganized, careless, and fear-driven investigative techniques employed by law enforcement, news reporters, and intelligence agencies, often exacerbated by publicity seekers. However, persistent public interest has led individuals to form groups for investigation and data collection. UFO study, according to King, involves analyzing this data and establishing valid investigative procedures to identify common or uncommon objects and phenomena. The article touches upon the popular theory of outer space origin for UFOs but emphasizes that it remains conjecture. It suggests that advancements in space exploration may eventually provide answers, referencing the lack of evidence for extraterrestrial life in our solar system so far.

King highlights the importance of self-education in UFO study, recommending responsible publications on space exploration and allied sciences, including astronomy and physics. She contrasts this with sensationalist "encounter" stories, which she considers a waste of time and money.

UFOlogy Today

CIA SUED OVER CLAIMS OF UFO COVER-UP (Page 17)

This section reports on a lawsuit filed by Harvey Brody, a photographer and executive of Ground Saucer Watch Inc., against the CIA. The lawsuit, filed in Federal court in Brooklyn, alleges that the CIA is withholding documents on UFOs that should have been released under the Freedom of Information Act. Specifically, the suit concerns the entire file on the Robertson Panel (dating back to 1952) and a 1957 sighting file. The CIA reportedly stated that certain portions of these reports could not be released as they might endanger national security. Ground Saucer Watch declined an invitation to appeal to the CIA's Information Review Committee, opting instead to pursue the matter in court.

Official UFO Dies a Slow Death

(Page 18)

This article discusses the decline of the publication "Official UFO," citing its former editor, Dennis W. Hauck, who resigned due to a fictitious cover story about an alien substitution of a baby. The article further criticizes "Official UFO" for publishing fabricated stories, such as an alleged alien invasion of Chester, Illinois, which included inaccurate details about local officials. The author expresses hope that the publication will cease to exist.

UFO Investigator Refutes Betty Hill's Claims

(Page 18-19)

Investigator John Oswald of North Hampton, New Hampshire, disagrees with Betty Hill's claims of regular UFO landings in the Kingston area. Oswald, who has investigated the area with Mrs. Hill, suggests she is misidentifying things, possibly streetlights, as UFOs. The article recounts an experience where Mrs. Hill identified a streetlight as a UFO beaming down at them. Oswald questions if the lights were indeed streetlights, suggesting the possibility of swamp gas in the surrounding area.

Follow Up: Landing Traces Found in Manitoba

(Page 15)

This article provides an update on mysterious imprints discovered on a farm in Rossburn, Manitoba, previously reported in the November issue. UFO CANADA obtained an RCMP telex to the National Research Council of Canada, indicating that parts of the previous report were incorrect. The incident likely occurred on September 3rd, 1977, with the farmer reporting the discovery on September 4th. The RCMP investigation revealed four round circles of packed wheat, each 15 feet in diameter. The article notes that such reports of physical traces without actual sightings are common. UFO CANADA has not received direct reports from that area, with the closest being on August 31st in Rusticoville, P.E.I.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO CANADA strongly advocates for a scientific and investigative approach to UFO phenomena, as evidenced by Peter Millman's "Seven Maxims of UFOs" and Frances King's "What is UFO Study." The magazine aims to sift through sensationalism and misinformation to present credible reports and analysis. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and thorough investigation, publishing reports without prejudice while also critically examining claims and distinguishing between genuine phenomena and misidentifications or fabrications. The article on the CIA lawsuit highlights a concern for transparency and the potential for government cover-ups, aligning with a theme of seeking truth. The critique of "Official UFO" underscores the magazine's commitment to factual reporting over sensationalism.

Title: Canadian Sightings
Issue: 20-21
Date: November 1977
Publisher: UFO CANADA
Country: Canada

This issue of "Canadian Sightings" provides a comprehensive look at UFO phenomena, focusing on a round-up of sightings from 1977 and a review of relevant literature. The magazine aims to keep readers informed about the latest developments and encourage engagement through a new editorial column.

Canadian Sightings - 1977 Roundup

The year 1977 is described as "most interesting" for UFO sightings, with UFO CANADA collecting over 200 reports. Of these, it's noted that some are misinterpretations of known objects. The complete results of their year-end report were unfinished at the time of publication but were expected by mid-March. For this issue, a brief report on the number of UFOs reported in Canada was prepared.

Provincial and Territorial Breakdown of UFO Reports (1977):

• Provinces:
• Nova Scotia: 10 reports
• New Brunswick: 8 reports
• Newfoundland: 5 reports
• Prince Edward Island: 6 reports
• Quebec: 41 reports
• Ontario: 33 reports
• Manitoba: 17 reports
• Saskatchewan: 7 reports
• Alberta: 29 reports
• British Columbia: 28 reports
• Territories:
• Yukon: 5 reports
• Northwest Territories: 3 reports

Additionally, there were 10 reports collected that lacked specific location details, which were not included in the total count. The total number of UFO reports collected was 202. The months of January and March alone recorded over 30 reports.

Sources for Canadian Reports:

• UFO CANADA
• UFO QUEBEC
• UFO INFORIFER
• UFO FULSE ANALYZER
• CANADIAN UFO REPORT
• RES BUREAUX BULL-ITEN
• NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF CANADA
• Various newsclippings

World Sightings

This section details UFO encounters from around the globe:

• Cheslyn Hay, England (November 7, 1977): Two teenage boys observed and photographed three silver objects flying high above an old reservoir near their homes. At the time of writing, the status of the developed pictures was unknown.
• *Source:* Daily Telegraph - London, England.
• South West Africa Coast (November 15, 1977): A Portuguese fishing vessel was buzzed by a UFO for approximately 8 minutes. The UFO shone a bright light on the ship, causing havoc with the vessel's electrical systems and setting off the alarm sirens. Systems returned to normal after the UFO departed.
• *Sources:* Newsclippings; Montreal Star (exact date unknown).
• San Diego, California, USA (November 13, 1977): Three UFOs hovered above the Grossmont Hospital at 4:00 am, causing all lights in the hospital and surrounding area to dim. Several citizens witnessed the event. Dogs in the neighborhood became agitated, howling and barking. Some witnesses reported hearing a humming noise similar to a vacuum cleaner emanating from one of the objects. One object hovered directly over the hospital, while the other two remained stationary at a higher altitude. The UFOs were described as disc-shaped with multi-coloured flashing lights.
• *Source:* Modern People - Franklin Park, Illinois, USA.
• Montevideo, Uruguay (October 17, 1977): UFOs were sighted over Montevideo and surrounding towns. The sightings, which lasted for more than an hour and occurred around 7:30 pm, were witnessed by many citizens. Some of the UFOs caused electromagnetic disturbances and left traces and burnt grass where they landed. Police officers were among the witnesses. The UFOs were disc-shaped and flashed multi-coloured lights.
• *Source:* Montevideo - October 22, 1977.

Bookshelf: Reviews and Booknotes

This section reviews recent UFO-related publications:

• "Celestial Passengers - UFOs & Space Travel" by Hargarent Sachs with Ernest Jahn (Penguin Books): Described as a basic UFO book, it contains rehashed material with an emphasis on N.I.C.A.P. Chapters cover topics such as Extraterrestrial Life, UFOs & the clergy, UFOs & the U.S.A.F., UFOs & the US Congress, UFOs & the Law, and various case histories. It includes a chapter on man's migration into space. The review notes that while the material is largely rehashed, the authors provide a good summary of the UFO phenomenon, but the book is considered overpriced at $2.95.
• Booknotes:
• Dr. J. Allen Hynek's new book, "The Hynek Report," was expected to be available for $1.95.
• Signet Books was reportedly releasing a book compiling material from "Flying Saucer Review."
• The Lorenzens of A.F.R.C. were coming out with a new book shortly.
• Gene Duplantier has released "UFOLK," a magazine that "investigates the people who investigate UFOs." It is published by Saucers, Space & Science and located at 17 Shetland Street, Willowdale, Ontario, Canada M2M 1X5.

UFO Journals

• UFO EXAMINER: Published quarterly from RT.1, Hazleton, Iowa, 50641 USA. It is described as an excellent publication examining the UFO enigma. The subscription cost is $4 yearly.

Editorial Notes and Future Policy

• Note: Beginning with the next issue, UFO CANADA will implement a new policy for evaluating reports featured in the journal. An evaluation system, to be explained in the subsequent issue, will help concentrate on important cases rather than "mysterious lights in the sky." Reader comments on this new policy are welcomed.
• Letters to the Editor: Commencing with the February issue, UFO CANADA will introduce a regular 'Letters to the Editor' column. Readers are encouraged to express their opinions and theories on the UFO phenomenon. Letters should be under 150 words, typed or legibly written, and must include the sender's name and address (initials will be substituted if anonymity is requested).

Subscription Information

• UFO CANADA Address: P.O. BOX 145, CHOMEDEY, LAVAL, P.Q., H7W 1S1 CANADA.
• Subscription Costs: $6 in Canada & U.S.A., $10 in all other countries (air mail).
• Back Issues: Volume #1, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 are available for $1 each. Only 25 copies of No. 1 are left.
• Subscription Expiry: A red X in a designated square indicates that the subscription has expired with this issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the documentation and analysis of UFO sightings, both within Canada and internationally. There is a clear emphasis on collecting and reporting data, as evidenced by the detailed statistics provided for Canadian sightings. The magazine also engages with the broader UFO community by reviewing books and journals, and by encouraging reader participation through a forthcoming "Letters to the Editor" section. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, as indicated by the planned implementation of a new evaluation system to focus on more significant cases. The publication is committed to disseminating information about the UFO phenomenon and fostering discussion among its readership.