The UFO Enigma

Magazine Overview

Title: The UFO Enigma
Issue: Volume 9, Number 3
Date: November 1988
Publisher: UFO Study Group of Greater St. Louis, Inc.
Description: A newsletter published monthly (except summer) by the UFO Study Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to investigating and reporting UFOs.

President's Message

Joseph L. Palermo, President of the UFO Study Group, expresses enthusiasm for the October 9th meeting, which included new members, good sales, a library table with samples, and guest speakers George and Shirley Coyne. He highlights the need for continued excitement and participation, urging members to get involved with committees, particularly the Library Committee. Palermo also seeks members interested in publicity and public relations to work with Helen Hanke on fundraising and profile direction. He notes that the study group season is two months in, with seven remaining.

Ancient Wisdom and Lost Capacities

By John E. Schroeder, this article reports on a lecture by Bruce Widaman to the Parapsychology Committee. Widaman discussed ancient wisdom and lost capacities, referencing Eric Wilson's 'The Alien Agenda' and John White's 'Psychic Warfare: Fact or Fiction.' He also highlighted 'Strange Magazine' for its Forteana data. The lecture included episodes from Arthur C. Clarke's video series on ancient mysteries, focusing on topics like anatomically accurate crystal skulls, ancient batteries, fused rocks in Irish ring forts, astronomical observatories, and monoliths. John Schroeder is scheduled to discuss 'The Scientific Method, the Parapsychological Enigma and the UFO Cover Up' on November 2nd, based on Timothy Good's book 'Above Top Secret.'

Library Corner

By Peggy Roppolo, this section details the ongoing work of the library staff. The Library Committee is planning a work demonstration meeting on November 9th at the Katheryn Linneman Library. A catalog of available books will be accessible to members who have paid their dues at the November 13th meeting. Several other projects are in development. Books available for checkout at the November 13th meeting include 'Beyond Earth: Mans Contact With UFOs' by Ralph Blum, 'Flying Saucers: Here and Now!' by Major Donald E. Keyhoe, 'UFOs Past, Present and Future' by Robert Emenegger, and 'UFOs Explained' by Phillip Klass.

Book Review: Light Years

Reviewed by Alex Horvat, this section examines Gary Kinders' book 'Light Years,' which delves into the case of Eduard "Billy" Meier and his alleged contacts with Pleiadian aliens. The review questions whether any book on UFOs, abductions, or contact is not controversial. Kinder's investigation into Meier's claims, which involved significant personal expense and the involvement of professionals, is detailed. The review notes the lack of other eyewitnesses to Meier's claims and discusses the "mysterious stories" surrounding him. It touches on the skepticism from organizations like MUFON and APRO, with some investigators like Jim Lorenzon eventually stating the case was a hoax, though with reservations. The review encourages readers to form their own opinions after reading 'Light Years.'

UFO Study Group Hear Latest from Central States MUFON Director

By Ken Hanke, this article summarizes the October 9th meeting. President Joe Palermo introduced new officers and encouraged member activity. Walter Palmer reported on an ongoing investigation into a sighting of lights. Joe Palermo mentioned Bruce Widaman's involvement in a feature article. John Schroeder announced his upcoming discussion on parapsychology and UFOs. The featured speakers, George and Shirley Coyne, shared their experiences. George, Central States Regional Director for MUFON, and Shirley, MUFON State Director for Michigan, discussed MUFON's growth and the Gulf Breeze investigation. They presented a video synopsis of the Gulf Breeze case, featuring "Mr. Ed" and over 132 residents who reported sightings. The photographic evidence was analyzed, estimating object sizes and noting prohibitive manufacturing costs. The Coynes also recounted their own interesting experiences, including multiple sightings and alleged government monitoring through telephone taps and helicopter surveillance.

UFOlogy: New Insights From Space and Common Sense

This section lists several books available in the library, including works by McCambell, Naud, Sachs, Carl Sagan, Jacques Vallee, and Clifford Wilson. Reference books are also available at the library desk but cannot leave the table.

Editorial

Ken Hanke, Editor, comments on a television program titled "UFO Cover-Up: What is the Government Hiding?" He found the program extraordinary for its UFO information content, despite some emotional appeals. Hanke believes such programs are scarce and that free-flowing information is vital, urging the government not to treat Americans as children.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena. It features personal accounts, book reviews, and discussions on the scientific and parapsychological aspects of UFOs. The editorial stance, as expressed by Ken Hanke, advocates for open information and criticizes government secrecy regarding UFOs, suggesting a potential cover-up. The publication also highlights the activities and growth of UFO organizations like MUFON and the local UFO Study Group.