Controversial Phenomena Bulletin - No 05 - Vol 1 No 5

Magazine Overview

Title: CONTROVERSIAL PHENOMENA BULLETIN
Issue: Vol. #1, No. #5
Date: September-October 1964
Publisher: Joseph L. Ferriere
Country of Publication: USA
Original Language: English

This issue of the Controversial Phenomena Bulletin delves into a variety of unexplained occurrences, from aerial objects and alleged monsters to broader 'New Age' concepts and media access issues. The cover features an illustration of a man observing a UFO over water.

Editorials and Letters

The editorial section congratulates John Ferguson on his "Objective Journal" and discusses the current socio-political climate, suggesting that a 'flap' might wake people up. It also addresses inquiries about UFO sightings, promising to publish information on 'OMEGA' when ready. The editorial notes the proximity of the Moon via the Ranger-7 probe and mentions unusual comments from JPL engineer George Nichola regarding Mars plans and potential intelligent life. It also highlights a report of UFO sightings over Pasadena accompanying the Ranger-7 mission. A significant portion criticizes the government's secrecy, quoting Senator Edward V. Long on the detrimental effects of a 'government by secrecy.'

Letters from readers are included, with a notable one from "The Little Listening Post" in Washington, D.C., congratulating the publication on its balanced format and attractive presentation. They offer reciprocal rights for reprinting material and express a desire to meet the editors.

Articles and Features

"Monsters - Beasts - And What Have You..." by Larry (monster hunter) Larochelle: This section includes an article by Gene Duplantier about termites appearing in Europe, causing damage to art treasures and structures. It also reports on a bizarre incident in Florida where a woman was found to have 'numerous small whitish organisms' identified as termites in her system, which were killed by drugs.

"BLACK BEASTIE ROAMS WOODS OF FITCHBURG" (7/9/64): Local and State Police in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, are investigating a report of a strange creature emerging from the woods near the city dump.

"LOVE HINTED IN LOCH NESS" (Fort Augustus, Scotland - 7/5/64): This piece suggests the Loch Ness Monster might be in 'love,' describing unusual behavior. It mentions an expedition camping by the loch with movie and telescopic equipment. Descriptions of the monster vary widely in shape, size, and color.

"DINOSAURS HALT CONSTRUCTION" (Holyoke, Mass. - 7/15/64): Workmen discovered a dinosaur footprint on a rock slab while blasting for Interstate Highway 91. Paleontologists were called in, and the article reflects on the vast changes in the Earth's environment over geologic time.

"Program Contact - Featuring Frank Edwards (guest)" (WBZ radio - Boston, Mass. - July 3rd 1964): This is a transcript of a radio program hosted by Bob Kennedy, featuring Frank Edwards discussing his books on strange phenomena. Edwards notes that many cases are not printed due to lack of documentation. He recounts an incident where a caller claimed to have visited Venus via spaceship, but the evidence turned out to be a dog. Another caller described a landed UFO in New Hampshire with a small occupant. The discussion also touched upon lunar changes reported in 1879 and the controversial figure of George Adamski. Frank Edwards also mentioned being present when Jean Dixon predicted John F. Kennedy's death. The segment concludes with a mention of Sasquatch and Bigfoot sightings.

"Strange Aerial Objects Still Seen In South Lawrence" (LAWRENCE SUNDAY SUN MAY 31, 1964): This article details sightings by Sacred Heart school boys of a mysterious, wingless, silent aircraft on May 11, 1964, which traveled at airplane speed and vanished without a trace. Rev. Guy J. Cyr, SM, is seeking additional reports.

"LAWRENCE EAGLE-TRIBUNE-LAWRENCE, JUNE 2 That UFO 1964 MASS." (Letter to the Editor): This letter, written by Rev. Guy J. Cyr, SM, refutes a previous article that allegedly ridiculed boys who reported seeing a UFO. The letter argues that the explanation of a radio sounding balloon is incorrect due to the timing and altitude of the balloon's burst compared to the sighting time. It also mentions people witnessing a jet trying to intercept the UFO.

"WOONSOCKET AND EVENING REPORTER" (FRIDAY, JULY 24, 1964): This section announces the formation of the Woonsocket UFO Study Group, which aims to seriously study UFO phenomena. They note an alarming increase in sightings and landings and plan an open meeting. They also mention a report issued to Congress about the Air Force's past policy of secrecy regarding UFO information.

"WOONSOCKET" (Article): Sam Reynolds, Uxbridge Manager for The Woonsocket Call, chose 'Unidentified Flying Objects' as his topic for a Rotary meeting, having been interested in the subject since 1951.

"AD - Want To Have A Big Hand In The New Age? - Here's How!": This advertisement promotes sets of 'mottoes' created by artist Vergniaud Pierre-Noel, designed to spread 'New Age' concepts. These mottoes are described as being on a colored background and intended to be displayed to influence viewers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and reports of unusual creatures or 'monsters.' There is a strong undercurrent of questioning official explanations and a distrust of government secrecy, as highlighted in the editorial and the letter to the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune. The publication also embraces 'New Age' concepts, as evidenced by the advertisement for 'mottoes' and the mention of 'higher forces' in a letter. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into controversial subjects, encouraging readers to share their own experiences and to question established narratives.

This document, comprising pages five through twelve of a publication, focuses on UFO sightings and related phenomena. The primary article, "UFO SIGHTINGS PRIOR TO JUNE 24, 1947" by Lucius Farish, begins a series exploring historical accounts of unidentified aerial objects before the widely publicized Kenneth Arnold sighting.

UFO Sightings Prior to June 24, 1947 (Part One)

Lucius Farish's article dismisses the idea that UFOs are secret weapons of the U.S. or Russia, suggesting that the abundance of sightings prior to June 24, 1947, refutes this theory. He states his intention to present evidence from magazines and bulletins familiar to UFO researchers, focusing on reader accounts rather than well-known cases like those of Charles Fort or Nicholas Roerich.

The article then chronologically reviews early sightings:

• 1870: An object crossed the moon, casting a shadow like a great black bird.
• 1873 (June 5): A great serpent was seen in the sky over Ft. Scott, Kansas.
• 1873 (June 6): A great serpent was seen in the sky over Bonham, Texas.
• 1877: A winged 'human' was seen in the sky over Brooklyn, New York.
• 1878: A horse with wings was seen swimming in the sky over Parkersburg, West Virginia.
• 1888: A huge hissing serpent was seen in the sky over Darlington, South Carolina.
• 1891: While watching bathers in Hungary, a sister reported seeing a long-shaped object burning with terrible brightness that crossed about a mile away. Its speed was described as 'fast,' and its altitude about the weight of a low-flying airplane.
• 1892: W. J. Hickey reported seeing a big bright star that rolled over, dropped two big drops of what looked like melted iron, whirled, spread sparks, and faded out.
• Summer 1904 or 1905: Homer Harris saw a red ball of fire moving across the sky between Wilcox and Tucson, Arizona, making a buzzing noise.
• Circa 1908: Ivan Dunlap saw an object moving in the sky at high speed in a straight line, described as a perfect sphere that looked like polished silver.

Night Sky Photo Proves A Puzzler

This section, by Richard Pothier, a Patriot Ledger Staff Reporter, details a photograph taken from his backyard in Wollaston, Massachusetts, around June 25 or 26, 1964. The photograph was a half-hour time exposure intended to capture star trails. However, the developed slide revealed a clear pattern of lights that maneuvered in seven spots, forming a 'flying saucer' shape.

Richard Pothier sent the slide to Stephen R. Putnam, a UFO investigator and president of the Massachusetts-Rhode Island UFO Study Group. Putnam described the photograph as 'the clearest, most detailed picture of UFO's of any I've ever seen or heard of.' He confirmed the object was definitely a UFO, noting that its movements were mostly rectangular, a common feature in UFO sightings.

The article discusses and discounts several potential explanations for the lights, including airplanes, helicopters, lighted weather balloons, fireflies, and fireworks, concluding that the object was unidentified.

Moon Shot Ends Jinx; Next Stop Is Mars

This section, primarily a letter from Rev. Guy J. Cyr, S.M., discusses the Ranger lunar probe missions and speculates about intelligent life on the Moon.

The End of a Jinx:

A list details the failures of American rockets aimed at the Moon from 1958 to 1964, including Pioneer 1, Pioneer 2, Pioneer 3, Pioneer 4, Atlas-Able probes, and Ranger 3, 4, 5, and 6. The list concludes with Ranger 7, which was successful in photographing the Moon with over 4,000 pictures before crash-landing.

Letter from Rev. Guy J. Cyr, S.M.:

Rev. Cyr writes to the editor, referencing a previous article about the Moon. He asserts that the Moon is covered not with dust and rocks, but with 'truly exotic flora' and that selenographers have recorded signs of intelligent activity. He believes that extraterrestrial intelligences prevented the cameras on Ranger 6 from functioning properly and suspects Ranger 7 will also fail, not due to mechanical issues, but deliberate interference by 'Superhumans' from other worlds.

He argues that the vast sums of money spent on lunar exploration could be better used for more urgent needs on Earth, such as feeding the starving.

In a subsequent letter dated July 30, 1964, Rev. Cyr reiterates his belief that intelligent life exists on the Moon and that the Ranger 7 cameras, if they work, will pick up artificial constructions. He theorizes that 'Superhumans' could easily stop or destroy the craft. He also expresses skepticism about the authenticity and quality of the Ranger 7 photographs, suggesting they might be faked by NASA to deceive the public.

In a letter dated August 8, 1964, Rev. Cyr continues his critique of the Ranger 7 photographs, questioning their authenticity and quality. He argues that even 'excellent' lunar pictures are poor compared to what could be seen with direct observation. He criticizes the 'experts' for explaining lunar features as natural phenomena without proof and suggests that the cameras' limitations, combined with the unknown lunar environment, make accurate interpretation difficult. He notes that the photographs show features like trenches, rays, and domes, which he believes are signs of artificial construction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication appears to have a strong interest in UFO phenomena, historical sightings, and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence, particularly concerning the Moon. The editorial stance seems to support the investigation of these phenomena, presenting reader accounts and expert opinions, while also expressing skepticism towards official explanations and government projects like the Ranger missions, suggesting a potential cover-up or misunderstanding of the true nature of lunar activity.

This collection of scanned pages from various publications, primarily from July and August 1964, focuses heavily on UFO sightings, mysterious aerial phenomena, and related theories. The central publication appears to be The Woonsocket Call, with other articles sourced from The Providence Journal, The Arkansas Gazette, Bridgeton Evening News, and others. The content ranges from speculative theories about lunar life to detailed reports of eyewitness encounters and official investigations.

Key Articles and Reports

The Moon May Shoot Back! (Diary of Ye Towne Crier by Philip E. Thomas)

This piece speculates on the possibility of lunar inhabitants being angered by Earth's space probes. It humorously suggests that 'moon men' might be responsible for malfunctions in space missions and could even be present on Earth, mingling with the population. The author questions the scientific consensus that the moon is lifeless and suggests that Earth might not be alone in developing intelligence capable of space travel.

Theories on Lunar Vegetation (Letter to the Editor)

A letter from Guy J. Cyr proposes that the 'surface' of the Moon is not barren rock or dust, but rather a form of exotic vegetation. He bases this on observations of its 'fuzzy, dendritic, fluffy, fibrous' nature and low albedo, arguing that stones and dust do not fit the scientific descriptions. He criticizes 'experts' who dismiss the idea of lunar vegetation as prejudice.

'LIFE' ON THE MOON (Letter to the Editor)

Raymond Copenhaver shares a personal account of visiting the Moon, describing it as a shell with mountains and internal water bodies. He claims to have seen deer, large fish, and a man with a book of gold. He asserts that there is a lush environment 150 feet below the surface, with a large tract of land and growing vegetation.

Mysterious Flying Object Puzzles Folks In Wyoming

Sheriff J.C. Brinkerhoff of Basin, Wyoming, is puzzled by a sighting of a mysterious object by himself and three other prominent men. They observed it moving at high speed and emitting a 'greenish-blue light.' While Brinkerhoff initially considered electrical storms or vehicles, the object's sudden movements and takeoff remain unexplained.

Strange Object Seen in Calif. Skies

Residents of Azusa, California, reported seeing a 'round-yellowish-white' object hovering. Police confirmed the sighting, noting a smoke or vapor trail. While initially thought to be a star or planet, the report highlights the ongoing mystery of such sightings.

Area Residents Report Sighting Unidentified Flying Objects (Worcester, Massachusetts)

Four unconfirmed reports of UFOs were received by the FAA in Worcester. Descriptions included a 'greenish flaming object' and a hovering bright light. While FAA officials stated such reports are common and could be due to atmospheric conditions, the sightings remain unexplained.

GREAT UFO SIGHTINGS OF THE '60s - No. 2 - Argentina - 1963

This report details an incident on October 21, 1963, in Cordoba Province, Argentina, where Antonio Moreno witnessed five disc-shaped objects, about 25 feet in diameter, hovering near his home. The objects emitted a beam of light that caused a 'tingling' sensation and intense heat inside the house. The incident lasted 40 minutes before the objects extinguished their lights and departed.

'The Thing' Startles Millville

Residents of Millville, New Jersey, are concerned about a 'monster' reportedly seen by Dick Martin. Descriptions vary, likening it to a large bear or the 'Jersey Devil.' The creature was seen crossing a road and is believed to have entered the dense woods and swamps. Another resident reported hearing a frightening roar.

Huge Animal Roams Wilds? (Franklin, Massachusetts)

Reports of a large, unidentified animal in Franklin, Massachusetts, have surfaced. Sightings include Sgt. Dino Geromini spotting it near Colonial Village, Juvenile Officer Francis Carrigan finding large paw marks, and a teacher hearing it crash through an area. Several sheep have disappeared in the region, and similar reports come from nearby towns.

UFOs Disrupting Air Traffic? Saucer Mystery Solved!

This section compiles several brief reports. One details the 'peculiar' crash of a Wiggins Airways plane in East Falmouth, Massachusetts, on August 5, 1964, leading to an inquest. Another mentions a mistaken identity of a plane with a UFO by air traffic control, resulting in a crash on Mt. San Gorgonio. A report from Loveland, Colorado, claims a UFO sighting was solved as pranksters using a railroad flare and balloons. It also references the release of markings from the 'Zamora saucer incident.'

Flying Saucers Studied By Woonsocket Group (Providence Sunday Journal)

This article introduces the Woonsocket UFO Study Group, led by Joseph L. Ferriere. The group aims to bring a serious look to unidentified flying objects, countering skepticism. Ferriere's own interest began after seeing three 'silvery, oval-shaped objects' in the sky. The group publishes a periodical called 'Controversial Phenomena' and maintains a library of UFO-related materials. They express doubt about the authenticity of some photographic evidence, noting that many models resemble toys. The group's goal is to inform the public due to a perceived lack of information from the USAF. Recent sightings in Warwick, Johnston, and Woonsocket are mentioned, with a notable sighting in Worcester on August 10th involving a multi-colored UFO seen by a pilot.

Creature From Space? (Westmorland, England)

This report describes a photograph taken by Jim Templeton in Westmorland, England, which appears to show a 'SPACEMAN' figure behind his daughter, Elizabeth. Police and the Ministry of Defense examined the photo and camera, concluding it was not a technical fault but admitted they were 'baffled.' The figure was described as being about 7 or 8 feet tall in a tight white suit with protective gear.

Monster's Visit Arouses Ware

Hundreds searched the hilltop woodlands of Ware, Massachusetts, following reports of a strange creature with 'eyes' like flashlights. While no direct sightings were made during the search, unidentified rumbling sounds were heard. The creature was described as five feet tall with green lights for eyes.

Another Stalks The Skies

This brief report mentions an 'orange ball' seen by Mrs. Donat Bileau in Manchaug, Massachusetts, which appeared to be coming to earth. She initially feared ridicule but shared her account after reading about the 'Green Monster' in Ware.

Praises UFO Group

A letter to The Woonsocket Call commends the newly organized UFO group, expressing keen interest and open-mindedness towards their efforts to explore UFO phenomena.

Late News & News Briefs

• This section contains a collection of short news items from August and September 1964:
• A water shortage mystery in Waslaco, Texas.
• 'Queer blobs' in Mexico Lake identified as moss animals.
• A $2.8-million telescope launched to study space.
• Deep holes discovered in a Wantagh, New York, lawn that grew larger.
• Near-sighted buzzards smashing windows in Durban, South Africa.
• Harold Urey's skepticism about Ranger-7 Moon data.
• Extraterrestrial content found in Greenland glacier dust samples.
• UFO sightings reported to WBZ Radio in Boston, described as luminous lights and saucer-shaped objects.
• A sighting of the 'Ogopogo' monster in Kelowna, B.C.
• Jeane Dixon denying predictions of Beatles' deaths.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these articles are the unexplained, the mysterious, and the potentially extraterrestrial. There's a clear fascination with UFOs, with numerous reports of sightings, investigations, and speculative theories about their origins. The articles often highlight the skepticism faced by witnesses and researchers, while also showcasing the efforts of groups like the Woonsocket UFO Study Group to bring a more serious approach to the subject. The editorial stance, particularly in The Woonsocket Call, appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the public to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations, while also acknowledging the need for evidence and cautioning against hoaxes. The collection reflects a period of heightened public interest in UFOs and space exploration.

This document is a single page from what appears to be a newsletter or a promotional insert, identified as 'CPB' and featuring advertisements and subscription offers related to UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and related interests. The primary focus is on promoting 'UFO Magazine' and other publications in the genre.

UFO Magazine Promotion

The central advertisement is for 'UFO MAGAZINE', described as a professionally printed magazine offering features, photos, maps, and colorful illustrations. It promises the "highest quality information on..... Flying Saucers". Readers are invited to send $1.00 for a year's subscription to the magazine, with the mailing address provided as: UFO Magazine - CPB, 3403 West 115th Street, Cleveland, Ohio - 44111, U.S.A.

Other Publications and Services

Reverend Cyr's Newsletters: This section promotes newsletters from Reverend Guy J. Cyr, S.M., focusing on topics such as "The UFO's Mode of Propulsion", "Bridge On The Moon", "Little Men", and "Monsters". Individual newsletters are available for $1.00 each, or all four can be ordered directly from Reverend Cyr at Sacred Heart Parish, 321 South Broadway, Lawrence, Mass. 01843.

Red's Book Shop: This advertisement lists a variety of books available, including "Fantastic Stories", "A-mazing Stories", "E-xotic Adventures", "True Magazine", "Unusual Tales", "Readers Digest", "Inside Detective", "Novels Galore", and "Good Housekeeping | Phenomena". The shop is located at 131 Arnold Street., Woonsocket, R.I.

Saucers Space and Science: This is advertised as Canada's "FOREMOST space zine" inviting subscriptions for its coverage of UFOs. Subscription options include 3 issues for $1.00 or one year for $2.00. Contact information is provided for Gene Duplantier at 17 Shetland Street, Willowdale, Ontario, Canada.

Local Advertisements

Kornstein's Beauty Salon: Located at 55 Main Street, Woonsocket, Rhode Island, offering appointments via phone at 769-0100 or 762-3200.

Pastel Florals by Mrs. Gatta: Mrs. Sybil Gatta offers floral arrangements from 614 Front Street., Woonsocket, Rhode Island, reachable at 762-1629. The tagline "Olde Worlde is my 'SPECIALTY ' !" is featured.

T. H. Economy Press: Based at 76 Burnside Avenue, Woonsocket, Rhode Island, this business specializes in "Printing and Copying". They emphasize fast, efficient service and reliability. They also mention having a full-page ad in the next issue of CPB and that an enclosed glossy poster was donated by them.

Content and Calls to Action

The page includes a section titled "Monsters", "Strange Falls", "Flying Saucers", "Poltergeists and Ghosts - plus - Much More!!" asking "Right here in WHERE?". This appears to be a teaser or a general category for content offered by one of the advertisers.

There is a direct call to action urging readers to "Urge your friends (if you have any) to subscribe TODAY!". It also advises readers to "Don't forget to mention CPB whenever answering ads". The message is signed by "Joe & Armand - lary".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are clearly UFOs, flying saucers, and related paranormal or unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance, as inferred from the content, is supportive of these topics, actively promoting magazines, newsletters, and books dedicated to them. The inclusion of local businesses suggests a community-focused approach to distribution or advertising within this niche interest group.