Flying Saucer News - 1964 08 - August

Magazine Overview

Title: FLYING SAUCER NEWS Illustrated News
Issue Date: August 1964
Publisher: Flying Saucer News
Country: USA
Price: 25c

This issue of Flying Saucer News Illustrated presents a collection of articles and reports related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs), extraterrestrial life, and related mysteries. The cover prominently features a photograph of a UFO, and the content delves into various sightings, theories, and organizational efforts within the UFO research community.

Cover Story: "Out of the Blue"

The lead story on the cover, "OUT OF THE BLUE," highlights a photograph taken at 4:30 p.m. on January 6, 1962, at Desert Hot Springs, California. The image, credited to John I. Norkin, shows a dark, oval-shaped object hovering in the sky. The caption suggests this is a significant UFO sighting.

The Thresher Mystery

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Thresher Mystery." This section speculates on the disappearance of the USS Thresher submarine, suggesting it was intentionally rammed by an "alien, extraterrestrial spacecraft" operating from the ocean floor. The article posits that such craft could have advanced technology to disable submarines and that these "invaders" might have a master plan not originating from Earth. It references an "iceberg incident" on December 30, 1961, where Navy radar detected 18 metallic objects east of Cape May, New Jersey, which were later found to be non-existent, fueling speculation about unidentified aquatic objects (UAOs).

Other Sightings and Reports

St. John Valley Times Report

An article from the "St. John Valley Times" dated August 29, 1963, details reports of unidentified flying objects. One sighting occurred on August 17, 1963, where a hiker described an oval-shaped object emitting yellow light that moved in an irregular course. Another report from August 18, 1963, by David and Michael Saunders of Ft. Kent, describes a silver disc gliding through the sky, which hummed intermittently. The article notes that the Air Force is skeptical but still wants reports on sighted objects.

International Sightings

Letters from readers share experiences from different parts of the world. Tony Gilley and Thedra (residing at Mt. Shasta, California) recount seeing smaller and larger objects with beautiful colors in the sky near Yucipa, California, on January 6, 1962, the same day as the cover photo. A letter from Singapore, dated December 8, 1962, from Sir Edward Fercival McCarthy Cavenagh head, describes seeing a similar phenomenon with a vapor trail, which was also observed by colleagues and reported to the Straits Times.

Books and Publications Advertised

The magazine features several advertisements for books and publications related to autosuggestion, occultism, and UFOs:

• Autosuggestion: A book by W. J. Felding on developing subconscious power.
• Every Devil's Dictionary: A satirical book by James S. Rigberg.
• Ancient Records: Books covering 26,674 years, including "Nine Weeks In Satan's Power."
• Prophetic Verses of Ancient Seer: The Complete Prophecies of Nostradamus, translated by Henry C. Roberts.
• Books by Charles Fort: A collection of his works.
• History of Magic: By Eliphas Levi.
• I Doubted Flying Saucers: A novel by Stan Layne.
• Tektites: Advertised by Don Bush.

Organizational Efforts and Future of UFO Research

An article titled "Flying Saucers are back in business" by THE EDITOR discusses the resurgence of saucer-spotting activity. It highlights the efforts of Mr. Antoni Szachnowski, who arrived in Britain with the 2nd Polish Corps and is now organizing the Anglo-Polish UFO Research Club. Szachnowski is a strong advocate for a "World UFO Federation," believing that only methodical and scientifically conducted research on a global scale can solve the UFO mystery. He suggests that such an international body could seek patronage from UNESCO and gain scientific status.

Other Features

• News Briefs: Mentions a forthcoming book by Dr. Frank E. Stranges and the "Long John Show" on WOR radio, which features ESP, Telepathy, Hypnotism, and UFOs.
• Complete TV Schedule: Requests reports on UFO sightings from television programs.
• Stoep Talk: An article discusses religious services held for Japanese oysters and the cultured pearl industry, with a mention of Aida Parker.
• Crystal Balls: Advertisements for crystal balls are included.
• Planchette: An advertisement for a planchette, described as a mechanical means of making contact with the spirit world.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the possibility of extraterrestrial life, and the scientific investigation of these phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance that UFOs are a genuine mystery that warrants serious investigation, moving beyond simple skepticism. There is a clear push towards a more organized and scientific approach to UFO research, as evidenced by the advocacy for a World UFO Federation and the emphasis on methodical research. The editorial stance encourages readers to report sightings and to consider the possibility of advanced, non-human intelligences operating on Earth and in space.

This issue of the Chicago Sun-Times, dated Tuesday, August 6, 1963, features a prominent article titled "A Swift Light Is Spotted," detailing a peculiar UFO sighting in Fairfield, Illinois. The magazine also includes a variety of other content, ranging from scientific claims to personal accounts and advertisements related to the paranormal and esoteric subjects.

Peculiarly: A Swift Light Is Spotted

The lead story recounts an encounter by Ronnie Austin, an 18-year-old from Fairfield, Illinois, who reported being chased by a strange white light for 10 miles at speeds up to 120 m.p.h. The light allegedly caused his car's engine to sputter and made the car radio 'go crazy.' Austin described the light as having a humming sound and a 'cooling effect' when it swooped down to within 100 feet of his car. His father, Orville Austin, reported that the gun he retrieved seemed to cause the light to draw nearer the house. Deputy Sheriff Harry Lee observed the light, describing it as 'three or four times bigger than a star and was moving, but not twinkling.' Police radio operator Kenneth Talbert described the light as shaped like a cross. Other family members and neighbors corroborated the story, and Ronnie Austin was given a sedative due to his excitement.

He Claims Invention of the World's First Death Ray

This article by Tom Crowell introduces Dr. Hans Erhardt, a German professor of physics living in Switzerland, who claims to have invented the world's first 'death ray.' Local residents refer to him as 'The Mad Professor.' Dr. Erhardt's experiments with mysterious rays of light in the sky near Lake Sarner led police to his laboratory. He states he works independently and has developed a method to convert energy directly into an electronic wave that can be conveyed any distance. He hopes the ray will benefit in treating cancer by destroying cells, but also claims it operates at extreme distances and could knock down any satellite orbiting the earth. Scientists commenting on his claim suggest it could be an absolute weapon against air attack.

Other Articles and Features

FATE Magazine Excerpt: An excerpt from FATE magazine discusses photographs of discs surrounded by orange flames and 'flaming shields,' suggesting a pattern in UFO appearances and the importance of multiple witnesses for corroboration. Mr. Szachnowski is quoted emphasizing the need for people to 'Look up at the sky every day' to gather evidence.

Mental Medium Advertisement: An advertisement for a 'Mental Medium' and 'Mystical Astrologer' offering personalized 'Life Soul Readings' for $10.

Flying Saucer News Advertisement: An advertisement for 'Flying Saucer News' at 119 East 96th Street, New York 28, N.Y.

Poem by Alpha and Omega: A poem by William Ferguson titled 'Alpha and Omega' explores themes of the macrocosm, microcosm, universes, intelligence, love, and the interconnectedness of existence.

• Late News Flashes: This section presents several brief news items:
• Pete Hurkos was arrested in New York City for impersonating an FBI Agent, known for solving crimes using psychometry.
• In Islip, New York, Mrs. Gleason was found dead but later discovered to be alive.
• A report from Hungary mentions the production of chickens with four legs.
• Candy manufacturers are offering 'Orbit The Earth' prizes, including 28-day world tours.
• A 1963 report from the USA mentions an American woman who can detect color differences with her eyes blindfolded.

The Martian Alphabet & Language: An advertisement offers a book on 'The Martian Alphabet & Language' for $2, available from Dickhoff.

Egyptian Magic: An advertisement for 'Egyptian Magic' by Sir Wallis Budge, detailing ancient Egyptian magic systems, spells, and rituals, available for $5.00.

The Tibetan Book of the Dead: An advertisement for 'The Tibetan Book of the Dead,' compiled and edited by W. Y. Evans-Wentz, priced at $1.75.

Controversial Phenomena Bulletin: An advertisement for 'The Controversial Phenomena Bulletin (Illustrated)' published by Armand A. Laprade.

Subscription Rates: Information on subscription rates for Flying Saucer News: 35¢ per copy, $2.00 per year.

• Letters to the Editor: This section contains several letters:
• A letter from Philip, Hubert, and Brian Paynter thanking the publication for books and wishing them success.
• A letter from Margie Lentner announcing the closure of her publication, 'Margie's Advertiser,' and thanking readers for support.
• A letter from Joseph J. Novak expressing concern over recent saucer craters in England and inquiring about routine surveillance or communication.
• A response from Dr. Dickhoff suggesting a waiting attitude regarding the saucer craters.
• A notice about the Junior Flying Saucer Club of America and how interested young people can contact them.
• A letter from Nels Hallsberg suggesting the creation of a custom stamp for the publication.
• A letter from Paul Mattelis detailing personal UFO experiences, including a sighting of a diamond-shaped object and an encounter with a hairy visitor.
• A letter from R. S. Craggs expressing skepticism about flying saucers being spaceships, while acknowledging the possibility of intelligent life on other planets.
• A letter from the Satellite Correspondence Club stating they will no longer accept ads for sex and matrimony but will continue to accept other paid ads, emphasizing that sexy stories and nude pictures are not acceptable.

ESP Record Sheet and Cards: An advertisement for ESP cards for testing sensory perception, available for $2.

Occultism: Its Theory and Practice: An advertisement for a book on occultism by Prof. Sirdar Ikbal All Shah, detailing witchcraft, magic, and secret societies, priced at $5.00.

Changing Your Address: A notice for subscribers to update their addresses with at least four weeks' notice.

• Classified Ads: Various classified advertisements, including:
• 'Telah Speaks' discourses dictated from space.
• U.S. Savings Bonds and Defense Bonds.
• Advertisements for individuals and their addresses, likely related to esoteric or paranormal services.
• An advertisement for 'The Justice Promoter,' offering information on religions, spirit worlds, and universal teachings for $25.00.

Of Human Living: A poem by Gary Severson reflecting on life, human existence, and the importance of living fully.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, extraterrestrial phenomena, and the broader spectrum of the paranormal and occult. There is a clear interest in investigating unexplained aerial phenomena, as evidenced by the lead story and the publication's name. The inclusion of articles on 'death rays,' psychic abilities, ancient civilizations (Atlantis, Egypt), and occult practices suggests an editorial stance that is open to exploring fringe science, esoteric beliefs, and mysteries beyond conventional understanding. The magazine also serves as a platform for reader engagement through letters and a space for advertisements related to these niche interests, indicating a community-focused approach to its content.

This issue of FLYING SAUCER NEWS appears to be a special promotional edition focused on a comprehensive catalog of books related to flying saucers and UFOs. The primary content consists of extensive lists of books, their authors, and their prices, presented across pages 44, 45, 46, and 47. The publication also actively promotes its own club and subscription services.

Book Catalog

The core of the issue is a detailed book list, organized by author. Notable authors featured include George Adamski, Truman Bethurum, Dana Howard, Major Donald E. Keyhoe, Aime Michel, Ernest Norman, Edward J. Ruppelt, George W. VanTassel, and George H. Williamson, among many others. The titles cover a broad spectrum of UFOlogy, from personal accounts and alleged contactee experiences to scientific investigations and speculative theories.

• Examples of book titles include:
• "Flying Saucers Have Landed" by George Adamski
• "Inside The Spaceships" by George Adamski
• "The Truth About Mars" by Ernest Norman
• "Report On UFO" by Edward J. Ruppelt
• "Into This World and Out Again" by George W. VanTassel
• "Flying Saucers From Outer Space" by Maj. Donald E. Keyhoe
• "The Strange Case of M.K. Jessup" by M.K. Jessup
• "The Books of Charles Fort" by Charles Fort

The prices range from $0.35 for a pocket book edition of Ruppelt's "Report on UFO" to $7.50 for "A Dweller on Two Planets" by Phylos.

New Titles and Special Offers

Pages 46 and 47 highlight "New Titles" and offer a "NEW PRICE POLICY." This section includes a "FREE subscription to Flying Saucer News and membership when you buy one of our books." Several specific book titles are listed with prices, such as "Flying Saucers And The Bible" for $1.00 and "International Flying Saucer Directory" for $1.00.

The Flying Saucer News Club of America

• The publication strongly encourages readers to "Join The Flying Saucer News Club of America." The dues are set at a low rate of "only 50 per year." Membership offers several benefits, including:
• An official membership card.
• A FREE subscription to Flying Saucer News, which is published twice a year and has an estimated readership of over 5,000.
• A 15% discount on books purchased from the publication.

Mail Order Information

Clear instructions are provided for mail orders, emphasizing that they should be "PROMPTLY FILLED." A form is included for customers to fill in their name, address, city, state, and province, along with the amount enclosed for their book purchases. The publication also includes standard postal information regarding contents and return postage.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the promotion and dissemination of literature concerning flying saucers and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of exploring these topics, as evidenced by the extensive book catalog and the active promotion of the Flying Saucer News Club. The publication positions itself as a central hub for enthusiasts to acquire information and connect with a community of like-minded individuals. The emphasis on "smashing the price barrier" and offering free subscriptions and discounts suggests a strategy to broaden readership and encourage engagement with the subject matter and the magazine itself.