Civlilian Saucer Intellligence of New York - No 18

Magazine Overview

Title: CSI NEWS LETTER
Issue: No. 6
Date: December 15, 1956
Publisher: Civilian Saucer Intelligence of New York (CSI)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the CSI News Letter is significantly larger than previous ones, with the editors justifying the increased size and cost by the number of recent events in 'saucerdom' requiring description and comment, and a large number of good sightings received over the past three months. The publication is compiled, written, and edited by Lex Mebane, Isabel Davis, and Ted Bloecher, with their views not necessarily reflecting those of all CSI members.

Editorial: The Need for Outspoken Criticism

The editorial, titled "The Need for Outspoken Criticism," argues that while it is generally preferable to focus on authentic phenomena, responsible research groups have an obligation to publicly address and repudiate spurious claims. The editors acknowledge the risks involved, including potential lawsuits and the unpleasantness of negative commentary, but assert that shying away from such criticism would be a dereliction of duty. They identify three categories of spurious data: deliberate hoaxes, claims from the mentally unstable, and honest observational errors. The editorial stresses that the public's undiscriminating view of UFOs leads to ridicule whenever a fraud is exposed, damaging the reputation of genuine research and honest witnesses. The editors advocate for researchers to actively disassociate themselves from the 'saucer demi-monde' to maintain their own respectability and the integrity of the field. They highlight the efforts of John Otto and Max Miller in debunking the 'Hon-Ka of Mars' hoax as an example of necessary action.

CSI Members' Meeting and Election of Officers

This section reports on CSI's first members' meeting of the 1956-57 season, held on November 7, 1956. Thirty members attended, and By-Laws were adopted. The following officers were elected: John DuBarry (President), Courtland Hastings (First Vice-President), Mrs. Mary Coryn (Second Vice-President), Ivan Sanderson (Third Vice-President), Lex Mebane (Secretary), Isabel Davis (Treasurer), and Ted Bloecher (Research Director). Membership stood at 110, with 52 in the greater New York City area. The organization's bank balance was $28.

Reports were given on the 'Mon-Ka of Mars' tapes, Van Tassel appearances, and the Menger case. Deferred topics included a report on NICAP by Ivan Sanderson and Ted Bloecher's investigation of 'little men' reports in Cincinnati.

'Mon-Ka of Mars' Gives Saucer Research a Black Eye

This article details a significant hoax that occurred on November 7, 1956, which the authors claim set saucer research back ten years. The hoax involved tape recordings allegedly produced by an occultist group called the 'Solar Cross Foundation,' with the 'Mon-Ka' messages purportedly impressed on a blank tape. The central figure behind this was Dick Miller, formerly associated with George Williamson. Miller, who is competent in electronics, allegedly used a radio transmitter to create a phony message from a spaceship. The 'Mon-Ka' message predicted a visible craft over Los Angeles at 10:30 p.m. on November 7th. Despite the obvious nature of the hoax, a minor radio station, KATY of San Luis Obispo, agreed to go off the air. The story gained wider attention when Kenneth Kellar took the tapes to England, where they were played at a public meeting. Despite warnings from Lex Mebane, Reginald Dutta of the 'Empire News' deemed the report authentic, leading to widespread press coverage. The article criticizes the media's role in amplifying the hoax and the public's gullibility, noting that this incident will make it difficult to gain serious consideration for UFOs in California.

George Van Tassel And His Wonderful Rejuvenation Machine

This section introduces George Van Tassel, known for his 'Space Conventions' at Giant Rock, California. Van Tassel, with a background in the aircraft industry, published a pamphlet in 1952 titled "I Rode A Flying Saucer," which contained 'messages' telepathically received from entities like 'Totalmon' and 'Ashtar.' The article notes Van Tassel's current lecture tour and his association with Howard Menger. Van Tassel appeared on radio programs, including 'Long John's' show and Steve Allen's 'Tonight,' where he and Menger were presented in a bantering style. The CSI Research Section monitored several of his appearances. Van Tassel is described as a handsome, sincere, and shrewd man who claims to be a confidant of 'angelic superhumans' operating flying saucers. He endorses other contactees' stories, including those of Adamski, Fry, and Scully. The article also discusses Van Tassel's claims about understanding the principle of 'magnetic' antigravitational engines and that saucers are powered by 'primary light energy,' which he believes the administration is suppressing. He also claims planets are self-luminous and that saucers are surrounded by a luminous force-field, demonstrating a fundamental ignorance of basic physics and astronomy. The article also touches on his 'Biblical criticism' and an economic-reform theme advising the issuance of scrip. A significant part of the article is dedicated to Van Tassel's 'Longevity Machine,' which he claims uses 'time fields' to restore youthfulness and extend life. He is seeking $40,000-$60,000 to build a man-sized machine, stating it will eliminate the medical profession. The CSI Research Section's opinion is unanimously negative, expecting the machine's primary effect to be financial exploitation.

Why We Have That Bleary-Eyed Look: Long John's Radio Broadcasts

This article discusses the radio program of 'Long John' Neville, a former magician who hosts a late-night show on WOR. Neville, who is skeptical of UFOs, recognized the audience appeal of the subject and began featuring discussions on flying saucers. The CSI Research Section notes that since late October, Neville's programs have extensively covered UFOs, featuring guests like Gilbert Holloway, George Van Tassel, Howard Menger, Lee Munsick, Augie Roberts, Dominick Lucchesi, and science-fiction writer Theodore Sturgeon. CSI representatives Lex Mebane and Ted Bloecher appeared on November 11th to present the organization's unfavorable verdict on Van Tassel and Menger. CSI Vice-President Ivan Sanderson also appeared, discussing the 'Flatwoods Monster' case and the possibility of upper-atmosphere 'life forms' as a class of aerial objects. The article mentions that Long John has also interviewed an attorney questioning the Mengers and M. K. Jessup with Courtland Hastings.

A New "Contact" Claimant: Howard Menger, The Jersey Adamski

Howard Menger, a 34-year-old signpainter from New Jersey, is introduced as a new 'contact' claimant who met George Van Tassel on October 27, 1956. Menger's rise to celebrity was rapid, with multiple appearances on Long John's show, other radio programs, and Steve Allen's TV show. His claims have been reported in New Jersey newspapers but have not yet been widely publicized by national media. Despite this, hundreds of believers are visiting his home in High Bridge, New Jersey, making his family's life difficult. The article notes that Menger has refused to discuss how his initial contact with Van Tassel was arranged. The CSI representatives Mebane and Bloecher expressed their unfavorable verdict on Menger's claims during their appearance on Long John's show.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO phenomena and the need for responsible research to distinguish between genuine sightings and fraudulent claims, hoaxes, or misidentifications. The editors of the CSI News Letter adopt a firm stance against what they perceive as spurious or unsubstantiated claims, particularly those made by 'contactees' and hoaxers. They believe that by openly criticizing and debunking these claims, they can protect the credibility of serious UFO research and educate the public. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalism and a commitment to maintaining a high standard of evidence and critical analysis within the UFO community. The publication actively seeks to 'nip frauds in the bud' and ensure that serious UFO research is not associated with the 'saucer demi-monde.'

This issue of NICAP focuses on debunking alleged UFO hoaxes and presenting recent sighting reports, alongside news about the organization itself. The primary focus is on the claims of George Menger, a self-proclaimed "contactee" who described repeated telepathic and physical interactions with extraterrestrials from Venus, Mars, and Saturn. The article critically analyzes Menger's narrative, drawing strong parallels to the earlier claims of George Adamski, and concludes that Menger's story is likely a copy of Adamski's, thus sharing its fictitious character. Menger's photographic evidence is also thoroughly examined and deemed to be likely paintings, with one photograph having mysteriously disappeared.

Menger's Claims and Adamski's Influence

Menger's story, which began at age ten with a telepathic encounter with a "beautiful girl" in ski pajamas, describes handsome, noble beings from other planets who aim to help humanity. These beings allegedly wear "ski pajamas" and live for centuries. Menger claims to have had frequent meetings since 1956 and has taken eleven photographs of luminous "space craft." However, the author points out that all these details, including the three-dimensional "viewer," iris-like doors, sourceless light, Venusian heaven, and "ski suits," are directly found in Adamski's book "Inside The Space Ships." This extensive overlap leads to the conclusion that Menger's story is derivative and fictitious.

Scrutiny of Photographic Evidence

The issue delves into the unacceptability of Menger's photographs. One photograph was questioned due to the disproportionate height of the grass relative to the alleged saucer. Another photograph, showing a large saucer, is identified as a painting on a black background, with visible touching-up, particularly around the cupola. The article notes that Menger's profession (though not explicitly stated, implied to be related to visual arts) might be relevant. A third photograph exhibits a "differentially-lighted effect" that could be achieved with fluorescent paint and an ultraviolet spotlight, suggesting artificial staging. The texture visible under slanting light further supports the diagnosis of canvas.

Comparison to Other Contactees

Menger is placed in the same category as other well-known contactees like Truman Bethurum, Orfeo Angelucci, and Adamski himself. Despite inconsistencies, these individuals are often described as sincere and high-minded, eliciting sympathy. The article notes that Menger's personal history includes family illness and financial strain, which might contribute to the sympathetic reception of his claims.

West Coast "Contact" Claims: A Hoax?

The issue presents an investigation into claims from the West Coast, involving Todd Kittredge and a "rose garden woman," which are described as "phony-sounding." Their story of "golden balls" and "space visitors" from Venus, dressed in green "ski suits" with long blond hair, is analyzed. The investigation, led by Mrs. Idabel Epperson, suggests a possible hoax. The "visitors" allegedly drank Coca-Cola and threatened to take the woman away. The narrative includes strange whistling and screeching noises during phone calls, which eventually sounded less professional. The article concludes that this case, like Menger's, is likely a staged event designed to lend credence to flying saucer stories.

NICAP Formation and Concerns

The issue announces the formation of NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena), a nine-man board of governors, including prominent figures like Dr. Charles A. Maney and Brig. Gen. Thomas B. Catron. NICAP is described as a non-profit organization aiming for detailed scientific investigation of flying saucers. However, the article expresses caution regarding NICAP's organizer, T. Townsend Brown, who is described as a "mystery man" and claims to have developed antigravitational devices. The article notes that while Brown is competent as a physicist, his claims are highly sensational and, if true, would revolutionize physics. There are also allegations concerning Brown's work that are considered disturbing. Furthermore, Dr. Leon Davidson points out potential dangers of excessive central control within NICAP due to voting power.

Recent Saucer Sightings

The issue includes a section detailing recent UFO sightings from August to October 1956:

• August 31, 1956: J. Gordon Campbell reported a "dog-bone-shaped" UFO near Billings, Montana, moving at high speed.
• September 2, 1956: Sandra Mitchell observed an egg-shaped, "black-silver" object in Huntington Station, L.I.
• September 5, 1956: Mrs. Fred de la Torre reported a "fiery ball" in East Rockaway, L.I.
• September 6, 1956: Sgt. and Mrs. Robert Smith saw four bright, circular objects hovering near Junction City, Kansas.
• September 7, 1956: A group including Paul Morris observed a pulsating, blue-green light near the New York-Connecticut border.
• September 7, 1956: A light was observed for three and a half hours, moving east from Providence, Rhode Island.
• September 7, 1956: An oblong object with flame was seen over Indianapolis.
• September 13, 1956: Ronald Martin reported seeing three "flying saucer"-like objects near Litchfield, Illinois.
• September 22, 1956: Reuben Borrud observed a shiny, metallic object with yellowish lights near Williston, North Dakota.
• September 24, 1956: Lloyd McMillan reported two dark grey objects near Kingsport, Tennessee.
• October 2, 1956: Harry J. Sturdevant saw a huge glowing cigar-shaped object over the Delaware River in Trenton, N.J.

Other News and Book Reviews

The issue also mentions upcoming articles on UFOs in "Fantastic Universe" magazine, a book review of Edgar Sievers' "Flying Saucer über Südafrika," and announcements of two new books by CSI members: Max Miller's "Flying Saucers - Fact or Fiction" and Lawrence Barth's "Universe Inside Me."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of contactee claims, the distinction between genuine UFO phenomena and hoaxes, and the importance of scientific investigation. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical of unsubstantiated claims, particularly those that appear to be plagiarized or fabricated, as exemplified by the Menger and West Coast cases. There is a strong emphasis on exposing hoaxes to protect the credibility of UFO research. Simultaneously, the publication advocates for the serious investigation of UFOs, as evidenced by the reporting of numerous sightings and the announcement of NICAP's formation, while also expressing reservations about the leadership and potential direction of such organizations. The issue highlights the ongoing effort to establish UFO study as a recognized science and to differentiate it from science fiction.

This issue of the magazine, dated November 1956 and identified as Volume 23, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related investigations from late 1956. The cover headline highlights a controversy where a "Saucer Investigator Twists Air Force's Arm and Publicizes Blue Book Report." The document type is a magazine issue, and the primary language is English.

Key Articles and Reports

October 13, 1956: New Jersey Balloon Sighting

Thousands of residents across northern New Jersey, southern New York, and eastern Pennsylvania witnessed a large object for nearly two hours around sundown. Descriptions varied widely, including flying saucer, mushroom-shaped object, silver sphere, inverted teardrop, heart, parachute, and star. While many observers noted a balloon-like apparatus below, investigations into a specific "weather balloon" from Idlewild International Airport proved spurious. The object's simultaneous visibility from multiple locations suggested a much larger and higher phenomenon than a typical weather balloon. Triangulation of reports from Morris Plains, Kenvil, Hackettstown (New Jersey), and Avoca (Pennsylvania) indicated the object was over the Franklin-Newton-Sparta region of Sussex County, New Jersey, at an altitude of approximately 15 miles. The apparent size, described as "one-third the size of the full moon" by multiple witnesses, suggested an actual diameter of about 250 feet, far exceeding that of standard balloons. The article notes that the brilliance of the object in the setting sun might have contributed to an observational error making it appear larger.

November 5, 1956: Somerville, New Jersey Sighting

Miss Louise E. Jenkins, a music teacher, reported seeing a peculiar object overhead around 9 p.m. She described it as "open," like a "bridge girder," with pointed ends, resembling a submarine. It had large green and white lights on its front and rear ends, estimated at 8-10 inches in diameter. The object was approximately 35-40 feet long and hovered at an altitude of only 50 feet, moving at the speed of a blimp and emitting a "purring" sound. It disappeared over her house roof and was not visible when she went to investigate further, impressing her as inexplicable. She described the object as appearing "like iron" and possibly illuminated by streetlights, though she doubted this. The police reportedly "laughed" at her report.

November 8, 1956: Dickinson, North Dakota Sighting

Laudie Dvorak reported seeing what appeared to be a falling star while driving near his farm. Within seconds, it seemed to be directly in front of him, moving at an estimated 800 to 1000 miles an hour. He described it as a large, black spot in front of a fire, about 25 feet long, with no noise. He initially thought it might be an airplane but found its speed too great. He was hesitant to report it for fear of ridicule until other reports from the region emerged.

November 13, 1956: Redfield, South Dakota Sighting

Marlen Hewitt, a dairy trucker, reported a terrifying encounter with a huge object that changed colors and moved with tremendous speed. The object swooped down to about 1000 feet, half a mile from him. He described it as a grey, round object, seemingly made of metal, about a block square and 12 feet thick, with an opening at the base from which a brilliant light was shining. The light flashed blue-white, then orange, and finally a bright cherry red. The object was still visible when Hewitt reached Ortonville, Minnesota. He and five hunters, including a newspaper publisher, witnessed the phenomenon, describing it as a "very bright object that disappeared almost immediately."

November 16, 1956: New Rochelle, New York Sighting

Miss Rena Dickey observed a procession of 26 round yellow objects moving silently from east to west through her bedroom window. Each object was smaller than the full moon and appeared at intervals of less than a minute. Some objects were brighter than others, and a few wobbled. They were positioned about a yard above the treetops. The report appeared in the New Rochelle Standard-Star.

November 16, 1956: Dakotas and Minnesota Sightings

Numerous observations of a bright fiery object or objects were reported in this region between 6:30 and 7 p.m. These included:
1. Mrs. Tony Schmidt of St. Paul, Minnesota, saw a "big blazing object" with a darker streak in the center, heading rapidly toward earth.
2. Bill Nemins of Crookston, Minnesota, saw an object that "looked like a falling star" stop and hang motionless about 500 feet above the ground. It was bright green with a white light, resembling "a piece of chrome with a brilliant light to it."

November 16, 1956: Bismarck, North Dakota Sighting

Bernard Hall, a farmer, and his wife saw a "huge ball of fire" over their home, estimated to be about 800 feet high and traveling at "terrific speed." It was noiseless. They initially thought it was an airplane on fire.

November 16, 1956: Bismarck, North Dakota Radio Announcer Sighting

Eldon Ray reported seeing a "reddish-white ball of flame, trailing a blue flame," speed westward over the city at an estimated height of 1500 to 2500 feet, appearing to be "erupting."

November 16, 1956: Rapid City, South Dakota Sighting

The Rev. Willis Mountain and his family saw a "strange light in the sky" about five miles south of Hermosa. The light, about thirty feet long, appeared bright in the front with "flames shooting out the back." It was noiseless and disappeared after thirty seconds.

November 17, 1956: Dickinson, North Dakota Sighting

Jack Messmer, a police patrolman, observed a "red light" along railroad tracks. He and another patrolman watched as the light shot up into the sky at terrific speed. Over two hours, it changed color from red to green to white and bobbed back and forth before disappearing at 4:30 a.m. Other witnesses also reported seeing the light.

November 17, 1956: Hopkins, Minnesota Sighting

Reuben Koep saw a large red object in the night sky, described as a "revolving flame with a silver inverted cone-shaped structure underneath." The object hovered momentarily, then shot upward, came down, and disappeared behind a hill. He initially thought it was a meteor but was convinced otherwise when it shot back up.

November 18, 1956: Aberdeen, South Dakota Sighting

Keith Lowry reported a huge red ball early Sunday morning between Aberdeen and Redfield. It was spotted by local policemen, flashing red and located about 4 miles west of Redfield. It disappeared before it could be reported.

November 25, 1956: Pierre, South Dakota Sighting

State Motor Patrolman Don Kelm and radio dispatcher Jack Peters saw a "weird light" about a mile or two ahead in the road. They described it as an object hovering a few feet off the ground, which then rose up and moved east. It was rectangular when hovering, but egg-shaped on the bottom and flat on top when it moved. It appeared bright red nearby, becoming a lighter mottled red at a distance. No smoke or exhaust was seen, and no noise was heard. Peters took a photograph which, when enlarged, showed a fuzzy-edged half-circle of light.

November 29, 1956: Newcastle, New York Sighting

A woman reported being awakened by a light and seeing two objects, each about the size of the moon and separated by about five diameters. They moved slowly and smoothly from east to west. The objects were circular, with fuzzy outlines, and appeared "like plates" seen on edge.

November 29, 1956: Cottonwood County, Minnesota Sighting

Harold Thompson reported a bright object hovering 300-400 feet above the ground. He described it as saucer-shaped with apparent windows. The object changed colors rapidly (light red, cherry red, purple, and green) before shooting higher and disappearing.

November 29, 1956: Bismarck, North Dakota Sighting

Richard Fowler, in his arithmetic class, saw an object through the classroom window that startled him and his classmates. They described it as white, round, and shiny, about the size of the junior high school, and estimated to be about 1000 feet away. It was visible for about 15 seconds.

Controversy: Saucer Investigator and Air Force Blue Book Report

The issue details a dispute involving Dr. Leon Davidson and the Air Force regarding Project Blue Book Report No. 14. Davidson obtained a photo-offset version of the report, which was initially classified "For Official Use Only" by the Air Force Secretary Quarles. Davidson's complaint to the Moss Subcommittee on Government Information (investigating government abuse of secrecy) led to the Pentagon ordering the report's release. The article praises Davidson for bringing Congressional attention to the Air Force's handling of UFO investigations.

Saucer Fragments

• This section reviews recent publications and news in the UFO field:
• Gray Barker's Saucerian Bulletin for November 15 is mentioned, noting that George H. Williamson and Adamski have reportedly moved their operations to Mexico.
• Gribble's Flying Saucer Review (Oct.-Nov. issue) is noted for its coverage of July and August sightings, including contributions from Olavo Fontes of Brazil.
• George Warren is reported to have recovered from a serious operation.
• Maurene Chenoweth's illness will necessitate her return to Idaho, but her research is expected to continue.
• The Brazilian group "Centro De Pesquisa Dos Discos Voadores" (Flying Saucer Research Center) and its publication "O Disco Voador" are highlighted for their rigorous, objective approach to studying phenomena.
• A new "contact" claimant, "Mel Kiner" of Manhattan, is mentioned with a note of skepticism.
• Frank Edwards has resigned from the Board of Governors of NICAP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across North America in late 1956, the variety of descriptions and behaviors reported, and the challenges faced by investigators in obtaining official information. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, advocating for transparency from government agencies like the Air Force and encouraging serious study of UFO phenomena, while also advising skepticism towards unsubstantiated "contactee" claims. The publication champions the efforts of independent investigators and researchers who push for official acknowledgment and investigation of UFO reports.