Ground Saucer Watch Bulletin - 1977 08 - August

Magazine Overview

This issue of the GSW News Bulletin, dated August 1977, is dedicated to the theme "The Position of Scientific UFOlogy on Its 30th Anniversary." The bulletin features articles that delve into the complexities of UFO data collection and interpretation over the past three decades, addressing the politics of scientific research, the dissemination of information, and the necessary scientific approach to the study of UFOs.

Editorial

The editorial notes the bulletin's shift towards an overall theme and introduces the chosen theme for this issue. It highlights several key articles that contribute to this theme: "The Acapulco Resolution" by Bill Baum, "Coverage Rather Than Cover-up" by Dria Weedon, and "UFOlogy: Science or Seance?" by Richard Gottlieb. The editorial also mentions an increase in the size of the editorial committee, welcoming new members Dria Wooden, Rosemary, and Bill Baum, in addition to the existing members Lori Field (editor), Roberta Bull, John Schaefer, and Richard Gottlieb.

Personal Note

Lori Field announces her departure as editor due to her move to attend medical school in another state. She expresses her enjoyment of her time on the editorial committee and hopes the improvements made have made the bulletin more concise and informative. She plans to remain an active member and wishes the future editor and committee luck.

Important Notice

Subscribers wishing to continue receiving the GSW News Bulletin are asked to send $2 (for GSW members) or $3 (for GSW nonmembers) before the December 1977 issue to NEWS BULLETIN, GSW-WD, 13238 N 7th Dr., Phx., AZ. 85029.

Directly Speaking: Acapulco Critique

William H. Spaulding recounts his attendance at the First International UFO Congress in Acapulco, Mexico, in April 1977. The conference aimed to unite leading UFO "authorities" and civilian organizations to establish a united front, collect worldwide data, disseminate information, and create a resolution for scientific investigation to be presented to the United Nations. Spaulding notes a division within the panel between the physical and paraphysical sides of UFOlogy, which caused concern. GSW presented computer photographic analyses that debunked many previously accepted "bonafide" UFO photographs. Spaulding emphasizes the importance of coupling modern technology with serious research for recognition by the scientific community. He believes the conference yielded positive outcomes, including greater data distribution, an expanded data base, gracious media coverage, and a unified plan for the UN.

Organizational News

GSW to Support Anti-UFO Group in Protesting Paranormal Explanations

By Dria Weedon, this article discusses the formation of a new group by the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal. This group aims to provide authoritative, no-nonsense information on UFOs and to establish "real facts" behind UFO stories, focusing on cases that major UFO groups have struggled to explain. Philip J. Klass is named Director of the UFO Subcommittee, with Robert Shaeffer and James E. Oberg as Associate Directors. Ground Saucer Watch announces its intention to support this new organization in its efforts to separate fact from fiction and clarify the position of serious UFO research.

Critique of the MUFON Symposium

By Lori Field, this article reviews the 8th Annual MUFON Symposium hosted by GSW in Scottsdale, Arizona, on July 16-17. Despite the Arizona heat, speakers covered a variety of UFOlogy-related issues. Field notes that while some lectures were well-done in content, the presentation quality varied. Speakers included Thomas Gates, who discussed the psychology of field investigation; Dr. Alvin Lawson, who presented research on regressive hypnosis and abduction cases, cautioning that information obtained should be taken "with a grain of salt"; Bill Pitts, who offered advice on field investigations; Dr. William Hassell, who spoke on "Future Physics and Anti-Gravity" but lost much of the audience due to the technical nature of his talk; and Dr. John Warren, who discussed the importance of the scientific method in UFO investigation. A demonstration of hypnosis by Dr. McCall is also mentioned.

Stanton Friedman's Lecture

Stanton Friedman, described as the only known "full-time scientist in the field of UFOlogy," lectured on the Zeta Reticuli map and its interpretation. The author found Friedman's lecture entertaining but criticized his "bitter attack" on Isaac Asimov, stating that opinions do not count, only data, and that the personal attack left little time for presenting real data.

William Spaulding's Lecture

William Spaulding, GSW-WD Director and MUFON State Director of Arizona, presented an all-photographic lecture on computer technology used to interpret photographic data. He presented both "bona fide" photographs and "put-ons" (misidentifications and hoaxes) identified by GSW's technology. Spaulding's presentation was engaging and provided the audience with knowledge about the new technology and its application to UFO photographs.

Calendar of Events

Scientifically Accurate UFO Film to Be Released

Scotia American Productions is releasing a 90-minute color feature film titled "Skywatch," which will reenact startling UFO cases using real names of witnesses and government officials. The script is being developed with material from the National Archives, witness interviews, and data from civilian UFO researchers. W. Todd Zechel, National Director of Research for GSW and former employee of intelligence agencies, is serving as Technical Consultant for the film. Zechel is known for his work on the suppression of UFO evidence by intelligence agencies and plans to publish a book titled "UFOS: Under Intelligence Control" after the film's release.

Annual GSW Lecture

GSW will present its sixth annual comprehensive UFO lecture on January 13, 1978, at the Safari Hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona. The lecture will focus on information GSW has accumulated regarding data repression policies of government intelligence agencies. William Spaulding and Todd Zechel will present new facts on the CIA cover-up, drawing from the "Skywatch" film. GSW's computerized photo enhancement technique and its role in ending the cover-up will also be reviewed.

Map of Sightings

This section presents a map of the United States with numbers indicating the quantity of UFO sightings logged by GSW between March 1, 1977, and July 1977. The map also notes 6 sightings in Canada, 7 in Mexico, and 12 in "All Others." Key points include: 183 called-in reports of UFOs, 26 hard copy reports received, a 3.5% unknown rate for the period, and that Arizona numbers exclude an advertisement airplane. Additionally, 40 sightings are attributed to the planet Venus (A.M. sightings).

MUFON/GSW Views the UFO Status Quo

By L. S. Stringfield for MUFON/GSW, this article states that UFOs are a high-priority concern for technically advanced governments and that increased UFO activity since 1973 has led to new scientific interest. MUFON/GSW recognizes two major hypothetical realms for UFOs: 1) advanced extraterrestrial surveillance vehicles, or 2) extra-dimensional or physical manifestations associated with Earth. A third possibility is an interaction of both. MUFON/GSW's research aims to study UFO reports, find patterns using scientific methodology, and objectively disseminate findings to the media and public. The article acknowledges the risks of premature judgment and the need for critical examination of data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena, the role of technology in research, the alleged suppression of UFO evidence by government intelligence agencies, and the importance of distinguishing between scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated claims. The GSW's stance, as reflected in its articles and the editorial, is to promote a rigorous, data-driven, and technologically informed approach to UFOlogy, while also actively challenging what it perceives as paranormal explanations and government cover-ups. The bulletin also emphasizes the need for clear dissemination of information to the public and the scientific community.

This issue of OFFICIAL UFO magazine, dated July 1977, delves into the complex world of UFO research, with a strong emphasis on alleged government cover-ups and the push for scientific rigor in the field. The publication, from Countrywide Publications, features articles that question official narratives and highlight the efforts of independent researchers.

Research Objectives and Evidence

The magazine outlines four key objectives for UFO research: determining the nature, structure, and propulsion of UFOs; investigating their origin; understanding the occupants; and deciphering their communication methods. It highlights the significance of updated statistical and photographic data from MUFON and GSW, including 80,000 individual UFO entries and Air Force Project Bluebook files, many of which show physical trace evidence from landings and close encounters. The increasing number of reported landing and close encounter incidents, sometimes involving humanoid activity, are noted as being reported by credible individuals seeking anonymity.

Allegations of CIA Involvement

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to documenting the alleged suppression of UFO evidence by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). A press conference held by William Spaulding, Director of Ground Saucer Watch (GSW), is detailed, presenting findings that suggest the CIA has been primarily involved in withholding UFO information. Research, including National Archives reviews and confidential interviews, points to the CIA's role. A letter from the CIA's Information and Privacy Coordinator, Gene F. Wilson, is quoted, stating that the CIA's involvement in UFO phenomena study ceased after the Robertson Panel in late 1952. However, the magazine presents counter-evidence, including a 1973 letter from CIA Legislative Counsel John M. Maury, which admits to a CIA inquiry into NICAP's research in January 1965 and contact with NICAP Director Richard Hall. Further evidence includes a Project Blue Book document from October 25, 1954, showing CIA-sourced foreign UFO reports, and testimony from a high-level Air Force source indicating ongoing CIA involvement in UFO research from the late 1950s to the mid-1960s, and possibly up to the present.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

The issue notes a shift in media coverage, moving from skepticism to a more serious and accepting approach towards the UFO phenomenon. Articles in "The New York Times," "The Washington Post," and "The Arizona Republic" are cited for their straightforward reporting on UFOs and alleged government suppression. The article "COVERAGE RATHER THAN COVER-UP" by Dria Weedon highlights this trend, mentioning that prominent researchers like William Spaulding and Dr. J. Allan Hynek are being quoted more frequently. The article also references a "Washington Whispers" column in "U.S. News & World Report" suggesting impending "unsettling disclosures" about UFOs from the government, possibly in cooperation with the CIA. The perceived impact of President Jimmy Carter's own reported UFO sighting is also mentioned as a factor in this shift.

The Acapulco Resolution and Scientific Methodology

"THE ACAPULCO RESOLUTION" by Bill Baum reports on the First International Congress on UFO Phenomena held in Acapulco, Mexico. During this congress, the Prime Minister of Grenada, Sir Eric Matthew Gairy, proposed a resolution urging the United Nations to establish an agency or department for UFO research. The resolution was unanimously supported by the International Congress.

The article "UFOlogy: Science or Seance?" by Richard Gottlieb argues for the necessity of applying strict scientific methodology to UFO research. It criticizes the lack of credibility in UFOlogy due to factors like lack of government interest, limited study by technical organizations, questionable personalities, and poor investigative methods. The article highlights Dr. David Saunders' use of computer pattern studies on over 70,000 UFO sightings as a significant step towards scientific explanation. It also discusses improvements in field investigative methodology, including sophisticated equipment and trained investigators, and the failed attempts to consolidate research organizations. The article also addresses the controversy surrounding GSW's patented computerized photographic analysis technique, which has been used to re-examine UFO photos, identifying many as misinterpretations or hoaxes, but still passing over 25 photos as solid metallic objects.

Challenges and Future of UFOlogy

Despite the progress in scientific approaches, the issue notes a counter-trend towards the paranormal and sensationalism in some circles, which challenges the credibility of serious researchers. The article "UFOlogy: Science or Seance?" strongly advocates for maintaining the scientific approach, warning against deviating into paranormal or non-scientific mediums like ESP or occult practices. It emphasizes that while mistakes may occur, the scientific method is the most reliable path to solving the UFO mystery.

Editor's Resignation and Hoax Allegation

A significant news release details the resignation of Dennis William Hauck, Editor of OFFICIAL UFO Magazine. Hauck announces the "perpetration of a hoax" in the pages of the magazine, specifically concerning a cover story presented as a letter from a bereaved mother. He alleges that the "case" was conceived by publisher Myron Fass and his secretary, and that it is entirely false. Hauck states his efforts to prevent its publication were futile and that he is renouncing the story to protect the integrity of the field. He has submitted his resignation and will remain only to ensure the integrity of his final issue in September 1977.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the alleged government cover-up of UFO information, particularly by the CIA, the importance of applying rigorous scientific methodology to UFO research, and the challenges faced by serious researchers in maintaining credibility against sensationalism and paranormal claims. The editorial stance clearly favors a scientific, evidence-based approach to UFOlogy, advocating for transparency from government agencies and a critical evaluation of all evidence. The issue concludes with a strong condemnation of fabricated cases, emphasizing the potential harm they cause to the serious study of UFO phenomena.

This document consists of two pages from a magazine, likely an issue from the 1980s given the context of the publications listed. Page 1 contains a short, personal statement from an unnamed author reflecting on their experience with a publisher named Countrywide, expressing disappointment that their reputation was used to legitimize falsehoods regarding UFO information. It is accompanied by a cartoon.

Page 2 features a review of the book "Situation Red: The UFO Siege" by Leonard Stringfield, written by Rosemary Baum of the Research Committee. The review is followed by a "Suggested Reading" section listing other UFOlogy publications.

Book Review: Situation Red: The UFO Siege

Rosemary Baum reviews Leonard Stringfield's book, "Situation Red: The UFO Siege." Stringfield, described as a long-time UFO researcher, shares his experiences and compiles UFO cases, attempting to cite lesser-known facts. The book's primary claims highlighted by the reviewer are government suppression of facts and the press's control over public information.

Baum finds the book to be an interesting compilation of tales, but criticizes it for not providing answers or scientific analysis, which she believes is what UFOlogy truly needs. While Stringfield's conclusions are deemed plausible, at times his writing tends toward sensationalism. Despite these criticisms, Baum acknowledges that Stringfield tries to include all viewpoints.

The reviewer would not recommend the book to the scientific community or figures like Dr. Sagan, but suggests it for the majority of UFO investigators.

Cartoon Analysis

The cartoon on page 1 depicts a robot-like figure looking up at a UFO in the sky. Next to the robot is a "24-HOUR BANKING" machine. The scene is set on a street with a building in the background. A speech bubble from the robot says, "WHAT'S A NICE GIRL LIKE YOU..." The signature "Richard Gottlieby" is visible at the bottom right.

Personal Reflection on Publishing

The text preceding the cartoon expresses a personal sentiment from an author who feels their reputation was exploited by a publisher (Countrywide) to lend credibility to misinformation about UFOs. The author states they have learned a lesson and hopes other publishing colleagues will reconsider how they handle UFO information.

Suggested Reading

For UFO researchers seeking to stay updated, the magazine recommends the following publications:

• MUFON'S UFO JOURNAL
• Published by MUFON, Inc.
• Address: 103 Oldtowne Road, Seguin, Texas 78155
• Price: $10.00/yr
• Attn: Mr. Walt Andrus
• Formerly called Skylook Magazine.

• INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER
• Address: 924 Chicago Ave., Evanston, Illinois 60202
• Price: $12.00 / yr.
• Editor: Allan Hendry

• OFFICIAL UFO
• Published by Countrywide Publications
• Address: 258 Park Ave., S., New York, N.Y. 10010
• Price: 9 issues $8.00

• UFO PULSE-ANALYZER
• Address: Box 15, Willowdale, Ontario, Canada M2N5PO
• Price: $10.00 for 10 issues
• Editor: Mr. Harry Tokarz

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are UFOlogy, the investigation of UFO phenomena, and the critical analysis of UFO-related literature. There is an emphasis on the need for well-researched and authenticated articles, as well as a critical stance towards sensationalism and publishers who may exploit the topic for less credible purposes. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous investigation and scientific analysis over mere anecdotal reporting, while still acknowledging the interest of the general UFO research community.