Alternate Horizons Newsletter

Magazine Overview

Title: Alternate Horizons Newsletter
Issue: Volume Three, Number Two, Whole Number Fourteen
Publisher: Foundation for Philosophic Advancement
Date: Likely early 1970s, based on content and publication details.
Character: This issue of the Alternate Horizons Newsletter focuses on UFO phenomena, intelligence agency involvement, and the controversial research of John A. Keel. It features articles by Richard S. Hack and Dennis Stamey, exploring various theories and case studies within the field of ufology.

Article 1: MAGICIANS, THE CIA, AND JOHN A. KEEL by Richard S. Hack

Richard S. Hack begins by recounting conversations with Allen Greenfield about UFOs and life in general. He then addresses the enigmatic 'Men in Black' (MIB), referencing the hypothesis by Jim and Coral Lorenzen that MIB incidents are orchestrated by the CIA or other intelligence groups for national security. Hack agrees that the CIA likely has an interest in UFOs, citing potential intelligence reports from the Air Force, a mention of an intelligence estimate on the Lorenzens, an OSI dossier, a report of surveillance by Dr. Olavo T. Fontes, and the Robertson Panel's recommendation to watch organizations like APRO.

However, Hack diverges from the Lorenzens' view, suggesting a 'third factor'—the MIB themselves. He finds the CIA's alleged involvement in deliberately destroying 'angel hair' evidence by dumping fuel oil disproportionate to the incident's importance. He also questions whether the CIA would resort to illegally threatening or kidnapping witnesses for simple sightings, arguing that such 'fantastic procedures' are not typical intelligence operations. Hack posits that if the Air Force isn't responsible, attributing such actions to the CIA implies omniscience.

He then critiques the idea that the CIA is behind MIB, questioning how they could achieve such feats and why they would if the actions are not rational. Hack introduces 'The Morning of the Magicians' by Louis Pauwels and Jacques Bergier, calling it essential reading for UFOlogists. The book explores 'fantastic realism,' occult forces in Hitler's Germany, intellectual secret societies, and the capabilities of ancient civilizations. Hack draws parallels between the book's questions and John Keel's inquiries into UFOs, suggesting that UFOlogy might hold answers to these broader mysteries. He highlights the authors' suggestion of a 'cryptocracy' (secret autocracy) and Keel's discovery of UFO occupants using low frequencies for communication, similar to ancient 'charms' used for marking time.

Hack then addresses the controversy surrounding John A. Keel, who has been critical of UFO 'buffs' for their lack of in-depth research. Keel is accused of sensationalizing stories for profit, while he charges that buffs merely collect newspaper clippings. Keel's critics question why he doesn't publish his findings if he knows so much.

Hack describes his own involvement in the 'civil war' of ufology, stemming from his military service in Vietnam in August 1967. While there, he read John Keel's articles on MIB in SAGA Magazine, which reminded him of Gray Barker's 'They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers.' This led him to reconsider Barker's material. He also noted Keel's research into moon bases, finding it thorough and professional.

Upon returning to the States in August 1968, Hack visited John Keel in New York. He was impressed by Keel's extensive UFO library, numerous articles, graphs, and the draft of his book 'Operation Trojan Horse,' which contained details of many witnesses. Hack was also shown a tape recording of an interview. He concluded that Keel had a sincere interest, had dedicated significant time and effort to research, and possessed deep knowledge and valid ideas about UFOs and research methods.

Hack emphasizes that it was Keel's ideas, not the man himself, that convinced him of his contribution's quality. He dismisses criticisms of Keel being 'too mysterious,' stating that showing a genuine urge for truth and fieldwork, rather than focusing on personalities or movements, will make Keel seem less mysterious.

In conclusion, Hack announces his intention to visit Point Pleasant, West Virginia, to investigate the existence of Mothman and its associates. He hopes this will shift the focus of the controversy from personalities to future research methods.

Article 2: A POSSIBLE LINK... by Dennis Stamey

Dennis Stamey discusses a theory presented by John A. Keel in SAGA Magazine, linking the age-old poltergeist phenomena to the origin of UFOs. Keel posits that these invisible entities appear during UFO 'flaps' and are associated with a strong odor of hydrogen-sulfide gas, a characteristic common in UFO reports.

Stamey finds this hypothesis remarkably feasible after independent study. He cites the 'messy poltergeist' case in Osceola, Indiana, in October 1966, which coincided with reports of strange lights in the sky. Sheriff William J. Locks noted that people were frightened to report the lights for fear of ridicule.

Another case mentioned is a 'haunting' in Newport, Oregon, around the same time. A family fled their home after experiencing odd lights, some as small as one inch in diameter, hovering near their windows, and the entire house being bathed in an eerie red glow. Local newspapers reported that 25 other residents had experienced similar phenomena and an unconfirmed sighting of a one-eyed monster.

Stamey encourages readers interested in the poltergeist phenomenon to examine these cases for a pattern related to flying saucers and invites comments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Alternate Horizons Newsletter strongly advocates for rigorous, evidence-based research in ufology, as championed by John A. Keel. It critiques the superficial approach of many UFO 'buffs' and highlights the importance of fieldwork and in-depth investigation. The newsletter appears to lean towards the idea that UFO phenomena are complex and may involve aspects beyond conventional explanations, including potential links to ancient mysteries, psychological factors, and even paranormal events like poltergeists. The editorial stance, as represented by Allen H. Greenfield (Editor/Publisher) and the featured articles, is one of open inquiry into these complex subjects, encouraging critical thinking and a departure from simplistic explanations, while also acknowledging the controversies surrounding key figures like John Keel. The publication itself is distributed via a private mailing list and is not available through paid subscription, suggesting a niche audience.