Journal of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists #1

Magazine Overview

This document is the first issue of "The Journal of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists," dated July 1969. It is a Xeroxed publication, informally organized, with the primary goal of communicating with members and providing a printed record of the Congress' meetings and activities. The journal is intended to be circulated among members and is numbered consecutively throughout the Congressional Year. The issue is published by the Publications Committee, chaired by Gray Barker.

Content and Articles

Editorial Introduction

Gray Barker, Chairman of the Publications Committee, explains the rationale behind the Xeroxed format, citing limited financing and the need for quick communication. He acknowledges that this is an experimental format that may change based on membership demand. Barker emphasizes that the record belongs to the membership, and submissions are welcomed. He notes that this first issue primarily consists of newspaper coverage of the Sixth Congress and justification by Columbus. Future issues will include the "Robinson Report" on Ethics, Correspondence, and Membership.

Financing

The journal's financing is still being explored, and this issue is being sent to members attending the Sixth Congress. Members may be asked to contribute financially in the future.

Newspaper Coverage of the Sixth Congress

The issue reprints several newspaper articles detailing the upcoming Sixth Annual Assembly of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists in Charleston, West Virginia, scheduled for June 20-21, 1969. These articles highlight:

• "Flood of UFO Reports in State" (The Charleston Gazette, June 4, 1969): This article discusses a prediction by "The Philadelphia Prophet," Ted Owens, of a "saucer flap" in West Virginia, coinciding with the Congress's meeting. It also mentions a sighting of a cigar-shaped object near Kanawha City. Gray Barker is quoted, emphasizing the importance of a scientific attitude while acknowledging Owens' accurate predictions.
• "Flying Saucer Meeting Slated" (The Charleston Gazette, May 27, 1969): This article announces the Sixth Annual Meeting of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists in Charleston, with Gray Barker as the national coordinator. It notes that the congress comprises scientific and lay people from 37 states and three foreign countries, expecting about 100 delegates. Topics for discussion include an evaluation of the "Condon Report," computer feasibility for programming sighting information, and a uniform code of ethics.
• "W. Va. --- A Good Place To See A Flying Saucer" (Jackson Herald, June 13, 1969): This article presents a skeptical view, citing Dr. Edward U. Condon and the U.S. Air Force's explanations for UFOs. However, it contrasts this with the upcoming convention where members will discuss hundreds of ongoing "saucer" sightings. James W. Moseley is mentioned as someone who will sketch the history of UFOs. The article recounts the Kenneth Arnold sighting in 1947 and the Thomas Mantell incident in 1948, questioning the official explanations. It also introduces Ivan T. Sanderson, a biologist and author, as a prominent researcher attending the convention.
• "Saucers, Seer--Maybe Some Angels" (The Charleston Gazette, June 10, 1969): This article previews the convention, mentioning "mothman" and a seer who claims communication with "space intelligences." It highlights Theodore Owens' prediction of a "saucer flap" and mentions J. Ralph Jarrett, president of UFO Investigators, who will give preliminary speeches. Gray Barker is again identified as the chief organizer, noting West Virginia's reputation for UFO sightings. The article also details several mysterious sightings in West Virginia, including a "spherical craft" seen by Tad Owens, a "water tank"-like object reported by a Bancroft man, Woodrow Derenberger's encounter with a "dark hulk" and a visitor from "Cold," and the "mothman" creature. It also touches upon a peculiar report of a Mason County couple who believe they are angels.
• "Ufologists To Meet Friday" (Charleston Daily Mail, June 18, 1969): This article reports on Mrs. Helen Scott's sighting of an object described as two soup bowls put together, with rotating lights. Andre Hooper, a UFO investigator, created a model "saucer" trophy to be awarded at the convention. The article reiterates that the Congress of Scientific Ufologists will hold its sixth annual convention, with a closed session for investigators and a public meeting. J. Ralph Jarrett and Timothy Green Beckley are mentioned as prominent researchers who will speak.
• "THIS IS NOT A FLYING SAUCER!" (Charleston Daily Mail, June 20, 1969): This front-page article clarifies that a photograph showing an object rising above Charleston's skyline is not a flying saucer but the sun dispelling fog. It notes that about 100 delegates are in the city for the convention.

Other Mentions

• "Biblical Reference To Saucers Noted" (The Charleston Gazette, June 20, 1969): James W. Moseley, speaking to the Charleston Lions Club, draws a biblical parallel to flying saucers, referencing Ezekiel's vision of a "wheel in a wheel." He suggests that some biblical miracles might be visitations from other planets. Moseley notes UFO reports dating back to the 10th century and mentions that "flaps" (waves of sightings) are common, citing about 1,500 Air Force sightings in one month in 1952. He also refers to the 1966 Hillsdale, Michigan, sightings that spurred interest.
• "COLOR RADIO" (The Charleston Gazette, June 20, 1969): This brief item mentions Edward M. Biebel, Rick R. Hilberg, and Allen H. Greenfield appearing on a WCHS radio show, "Ask The Expert," with color film being made for TV news.

Key Incidents and Cases

• West Virginia "Saucer Flap" Prediction (July 1969): Ted Owens predicts a significant increase in UFO sightings in the Charleston area.
• Kanawha City Sighting (Prior to July 1969): Spectators reported a white, cigar-shaped object.
• Flatwoods Monster (September 1952 & 1962): Multiple sightings of aerial phenomena and a large, extraterrestrial-like being.
• Sistersville Luminous Object (April 1897): A large, cone-shaped object with flashing lights was observed.
• Greenbrier County Sighting (February 1969): Mrs. Helen Scott reported a large, saucer-shaped object flying alongside her car.
• 1-64 Sighting (January 1967): A driver reported a glowing cylinder hovering and moving rapidly.
• 1-77 Encounter (November 1966): Woodrow Derenberger reported a "dark hulk" descending and a visitor emerging.
• "Mothman" Sightings (Ongoing, reported in 1961): A mysterious bird-like creature with large wings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal's stance appears to be one of open investigation into UFO phenomena, encouraging a scientific approach while acknowledging the complexity and mystery surrounding the subject. There's a clear effort to document and disseminate information about UFO sightings, particularly those occurring in West Virginia, which is presented as a hotspot for such activity. The publication aims to serve as a record for the Congress of Scientific Ufologists, fostering a community of researchers and enthusiasts. The articles reflect a mix of reporting on current events, historical cases, and the personal beliefs of ufologists, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for rigorous investigation. The editorial tone is informative and aims to present a comprehensive overview of UFO-related news and discussions within the ufological community.

Title: The Charleston Gazette
Issue Date: Friday, June 20, 1969
Content: This issue of The Charleston Gazette, specifically page 11 of the Journal section, focuses heavily on the upcoming and ongoing Sixth Annual Congress of Scientific Ufologists held in Charleston, West Virginia. The main cover story, "Capital Of UFO Sightings Natural For UFO Meeting," by Charlie Connor of The Daily Mail Staff, explores why Charleston is a hub for UFO enthusiasts.

'SEEING'S BELIEVING'

The article "Capital Of UFO Sightings Natural For UFO Meeting" by Charlie Connor highlights Charleston, West Virginia, as a prime location for UFO enthusiasts due to a high number of reported sightings in the state. J. Ralph Jarrett of St. Albans, president of the local UFO Investigators, believes West Virginia has more UFO sightings than any other state. The article recounts several specific UFO incidents reported in the Charleston area, particularly since 1966:

• Tad Jones's Sighting: A former operator of Moore's Appliance Store, Tad Jones, described seeing a "dull aluminum sphere" on I-64 in January 1967. The object hovered about four feet above the ground, was 20-25 feet in diameter, had antennae and legs, and a propeller. It rose swiftly without noise.
• Clendenin Incident (July 7, 1966): State Police Cpl. A. R. Bruce reported that three youths saw a UFO on Bomont Road that caused their car's engine and radio to fail.
• St. Albans Sightings (January 1967): Six sightings were reported in the River Lake Estates area, with engineer Jarrett becoming a believer.
• Kanawha Airport Sighting (March 4, 1967): FAA controllers observed a formation of three lights moving faster than jets but slower than meteorites.
• Putnam County Sighting (March 16, 1968): Mrs. Ottie Campbell reported a UFO near Bill's Creek Road.
• Bedford Road Sighting (June 5, 1968): Dr. John Herlihy and two other residents reported seeing a peculiar object flying parallel to them.

The article notes that the upcoming congress will discuss the Condon report, which found no direct evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft visiting Earth. It concludes with the sentiment that "seeing's believing."

'Kooks' Blamed in Creating Bad Image for Ufologists

This article by Michael Gerrard discusses the Sixth Annual Congress of Scientific Ufologists. About 50 ufologists attended, passing resolutions and reports. A key concern was the "bad image" created by individuals making "crazy statements." Ralph Fannig of Celina, Ohio, expressed a desire to "get the facts behind it" and communicate with potential extraterrestrial visitors. The convention adopted a system called "Sigma C," developed by Dr. J. Allen Hynek, to rate UFO sightings based on witness credibility and the sighting's strangeness.

Edward M. Biebel explained the "Sigma C" system. The article also mentions a peculiar "fossil" with "humanoid and ape-like figures" displayed by Buffard Ratliff, who theorized it might be from outer space or evidence of a miniature ancient civilization. Some delegates were skeptical of this claim. The convention also discussed a donation of land in Thailand for an institute to study aerial phenomena.

John Blocher of Canton, Ohio, clarified that many ufologists are not "contactee-oriented," meaning they don't necessarily believe they have been contacted by benevolent beings from other planets. However, they remain open to possibilities, including non-humanoid visitors. The article notes that Charleston residents could attend a public session on UFOs at the Civic Center.

Aliens, Using Moon as Base, Will Prevent Lunar Colonization, Ufologists Warn U.S.

Another article by Michael Gerrard reports on the warnings issued by ufologists at the convention. Two leading members, Timothy Green Beckley and James W. Moseley, believe that alien beings are using the moon as a UFO base and are warning humanity against attempting lunar colonization. They suggest these beings intend to stop humans if they try to colonize the moon, possibly due to concerns about military use of space.

Beckley cited contactees who claim communication with these extraterrestrial beings. He mentioned that friends working with NASA have reported unexplained signals from certain NASA satellites, particularly the Mariner flights to Venus and Mars. Beckley also suggested a possible connection between UFOs and the ground fire that killed three Apollo astronauts in 1967.

James W. Moseley expressed his conviction that aliens are using the moon as a UFO base and have been affecting Earth's space program for centuries, citing "strange lights" seen by astronauts. He believes that if humans land on the moon, there will be repercussions on Earth, such as earthquakes and power failures.

The article also mentions Barbara Hudson from New York City's Saucer News, who stated that aliens would prevent humans from landing on the moon for military purposes. The convention concluded with a "Flying Saucer Show" and a presentation of a miniature flying saucer model to Moseley for his speech on the history of UFO study, which he traced back to the Bible.

Helium-Copter

This section features a photograph of a blimp, identified as a "fat, slow aircraft," floating over faster aircraft at Kanawha Airport. The 160-foot-long blimp was an advertising blimp that tied up at the airport for the night before heading to Wheeling. The caption notes that two young sisters, Gretchen and Kristin Yeager, excitedly telephoned newsmen that they had seen a flying saucer after seeing the blimp.

Media Coverage

The Sixth Congress received extensive media coverage, including newspaper articles, radio, and television programs across various stations in West Virginia and Ohio. Notable individuals appearing on these programs included Edward M. Biebel, Rick R. Hilberg, Ralph Jarrett, James W. Meseley, Allen H. Greenfield, and Gray Barker.

A SUGGESTION BY JAMES W. MOSELEY

James W. Moseley proposes that the Congress of Scientific Ufologists obtain a Charter as a Non-Profit Organization. He argues this would facilitate obtaining gifts and foundation grants, make donations tax-deductible, and limit liability for members, thereby adding prestige. He requests members to evaluate this suggestion for implementation at the next Congress.

A NOTE TO RALPH FANNING

Gray Barker requests Ralph Fanning to forward a copy of his letter to the editor of The Charleston Gazette, in answer to the "Intercepted Message" published on June 21, for inclusion in the Journal.

A REPORT ON THE COLUMBUS BID

This report details the bids for sponsorship of the Seventh Congress, with Cleveland and Columbus being the contenders. The decision will be made in September by a special committee. Kevin McCray, Director of The American Flying Saucer Investigating Committee, submitted an outline of capabilities for Columbus as the site for the 1970 Congress. The report details potential venues in Columbus, including the Columbus Center of Science and Industry (offering a room for $15.00) and the Franklin County Veterans Memorial Auditorium (seating 750 for $350.00, or a larger room for an unstated cost). It also lists hotels like the Christopher Inn, Sheraton Hotel, and Neil House Hotel, with their rates and capacities. Publicity channels in Columbus, including newspapers, television, and radio stations, are also listed, along with contacts for adult cooperation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, the scientific investigation of these phenomena, and the public perception of ufology. There's a clear effort to present UFO research as a serious scientific endeavor, distinct from sensationalism or "kooks." The articles highlight local sightings, the challenges of credibility, and the ongoing debate about the nature and origin of UFOs. The warnings about alien intervention in lunar colonization suggest a growing concern within the ufology community about humanity's future in space and potential extraterrestrial influence. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious inquiry into UFOs while distancing itself from unsubstantiated claims, as evidenced by the discussion of the Condon Report and the "Sigma C" rating system.

This document is a letter from the office of the president of the Cleveland Aerial Phenomena Investigations Club (Capic), dated March 12, 1969. It details an initiative called 'Project Will-O-the-Wisp', aimed at gathering and organizing data on unidentified flying object (UFO) cases.

Project Will-O-the-Wisp

The letter, addressed to 'All Scientific Ufologists', outlines the purpose and methodology of Project Will-O-the-Wisp. The project's primary objective is to collect hard data on UFO sightings and make it available to physical and social scientists, as well as UFO investigators, to aid in their research of cases that remain unidentified.

The project involves several key steps:

1. Case Selection: Participating ufologists are instructed to review their personal files, correspondence, libraries, and other materials to select cases that they consider to be the 'best', possessing a high degree of strangeness, and remaining unidentified.
2. Data Submission: Once a ufologist has selected unidentified cases that are more than just simple lights in the sky, they are to transmit these cases, along with all available data, to CAPIC. The letter specifically requests that even famous or 'classic' cases be sent, assuring that their duplication will be handled at CAPIC's end.
3. Data Compilation and Analysis: The CAPIC staff will then process the submitted data. Their tasks include eliminating all duplicate reports, compiling a composite case report for each sighting, and preparing specially formatted report forms. Synopses of each case will also be written.
4. Publication and Distribution: Following the completion of the case studies, the compiled material will be assembled for publication and distribution. Each individual who participates in the project will receive a copy of the final report.

Goals and Hopes

Edward M. Biebel, President of CAPIC, expresses his hope that Project Will-O-the-Wisp will successfully provide ufologists and scientists with essential data for further investigation. He also hopes the project will contribute to proving the existence of UFOs. Furthermore, CAPIC anticipates that this endeavor will inspire others to undertake ambitious yet achievable projects to gather valuable data.

The letter concludes with an invitation for recipients to decide to participate and to write for further details.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The document strongly advocates for systematic data collection and scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry, aiming to move beyond anecdotal evidence to compile verifiable data that can be analyzed by the scientific community. The emphasis is on rigorous selection of cases and a structured approach to research, publication, and distribution of findings.