Journal of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists #3

Magazine Overview

This issue of The JOURNAL OF THE Congress of Scientific Ufologists, identified as Issue Number Three from June 1971, focuses on the proceedings and reports from the Seventh Annual Congress held in Columbus, Ohio, from June 26-28, 1970. The cover prominently features the report of the Robinson Committee on Ethics, Correspondence, and Membership.

Seventh Annual Congress of Scientific Ufologists (Columbus, Ohio, June 26-28, 1970)

The journal details the various sessions of the Seventh Annual Congress. The Prelude describes an executive meeting of the Permanent Organizing Committee on the evening of June 25th to determine the agenda for closed sessions and reports.

Registration

On Friday, June 26, 1971, delegates registered, representing numerous organizations, publications, and individual researchers. Notable registrants included Kevin McCray and Steve Balogh from the American Flying Saucer Investigating Committee, Colman Vonkeviczky and John J. Robinson from the Intercontinental UFO Research & Analytic Network, and Gray Barker of Saucerian Publications.

First Closed Session (June 26, 1970, 1:00 PM)

Mr. Kevin McCray opened the session, followed by Permanent Chairman Mr. Allan Manak calling the Congress to order and conducting a roll call. Organizations that responded included the American Flying Saucer Investigating Committee and the UFO Research Bureau of Lorain. Mr. Robinson presented the Loftin Award to an surprised Mr. Manak. Reports from standing committees were then heard.

• Robinson Committee on Ethics, Correspondence and Membership: Mr. Robinson read his report, which was accepted with a minor correction.
• Brasdovich Committee on Projects: Mr. Brasdovich reported a poor response to his committee's notification, with only CAPIC making contact.
• Progress Reports: Kevin Collins reported on a public education research questionnaire by the Aerial Phenomena Investigations Research Center. Gray Barker mentioned working with Al Bender on his experience and having a tape available. Ronald Pelger presented typed reports on the UFO Questionnaire and the Bonnie Berea Case. Mr. Jarret of the UFO Investigators discussed a study of the Magnetic Field Effect. Colman Vonkeviczky read a letter from Karl L. Veit of Deutsche UFO Studiengemeinschatt, extending greetings.

First Session Progress Reports Continued

Colman Vonkeviczky distributed a Press Release #12. Ralph Fanning reported on a conference at Bradley University featuring speakers like Dr. Allen R. Utke on scientific evidence and Ted Phillips on burned circles. John F. Schuessler discussed aeronautic phases of UFOs, and Robert Smulling lectured on photographic effects. Mrs. Coral Lorenzen provided an "Up to Date Report of the UFO Situation." Dr. J Allen Heynek discussed the current state of UFO research, emphasizing the role of civilian researchers. Mr. Brasdovich read the annual report for the National Scientific Aerial Research Organization. Mr. Swinehart of the UFO Research Bureau of Lorain stated his organization's report would be mailed later. Kevin McCray gave the report for the American Flying Saucer Investigations Committee. Edward Biebel reported on the UFO Watch Filter Center and Project Will-O-The-Wisp. A resolution to make the UFO Watch Filter Center an integral part of the Congress was tabled for the second session. The Chair also requested Mrs. Lorenzen of AFRO be contacted regarding affiliation.

Second Closed Session (June 26, 1970, 3:30 PM)

Discussion on the UFO Watch Filter Center motion continued, and it was passed. Allen Greenfield reported on investigations of the Brown Mt. Lights, saucer nests in New Zealand, MIB cases, and contacting a senator about Air Force UFO records. Mr. Robinson announced that the proposed amendment to the Code of Ethics was withdrawn by Mr. Greenfield. A resolution regarding the depository bank, "Citizens Commercial Bank of Celina Ohio," was passed. A motion to bond the treasurer, Mr. Fanning, was defeated. Amendments to the By-Laws concerning qualifications for host organizations (requiring attendance at previous sessions) were proposed and passed with a two-thirds vote. A motion for a mid-term meeting of the Permanent Organizing Committee was passed. Bids for the next Congress were considered, and Cleveland was selected as the site, sponsored by The UFO Magazine and the Cleveland Aerial Phenomena Investigation Committee. A resolution expressing appreciation to the American Flying Saucer Investigating Committee for sponsoring the Congress was accepted. A motion to form a committee of former and future recipients to select the Robert Loftin Award recipient was passed. Dr. Miran Lindtner, who died in 1969, was added to the Congress Honor Roll.

Third Closed Session (June 26, 1970, 7:00 PM)

Mr. Colman Vonkeviczky appealed for scientists to engage in UFO research. Mr. Brasdovich requested information on ongoing projects. Mr. Edward Biebel sought aid for the UFO Watch Filter Center. A motion to adopt the Erhardt Data Index System (EDIS) as the official system for CSU members was carried. Colman Vonkeviczky reported on UFO research in Russia. A discussion on incorporating the Congress and requesting non-profit status was initiated, with Mr. Biebel tasked to investigate. Mr. Brasdovich described his organization's sky watch work and plans for mobile tracking trucks.

Afternoon Parlor "D" Discussion (June 27, 1970)

Delegates met for an informal discussion group, sharing costs for a meeting room. The discussion covered various aspects of the UFO situation, with approximately 40 people present.

Permanent Organizing Committee Midterm Meeting (November 14, 1970)

The Permanent Chairman called a midterm meeting to appoint new members to the Permanent Organizing Committee, including Mr. Edward Biebel, Mr. Ralph Fanning, and Mr. Lawrence Blazey. Mr. Yonah Ibn Aahrons was removed. The updated committee list was presented. Mr. Biebel discussed the incorporation of the Congress in Ohio, which was tabled. The committee agreed to extend invitations to various researchers and NASA for the upcoming Congress. A motion to grant $25.00 to the UFO Watch Filter Center was carried. A resolution concerning the clarification of Membership Status was presented, detailing requirements for member organizations and individual researchers to contribute $5.00 annually.

The Robinson Committee Report to the 1970 Seventh Congress (John J. Robinson)

John J. Robinson, Chairman of the Robinson Committee, submitted his report detailing his work over the past year. This included transcribing minutes from the Sixth Congress, composing the second issue of the Journal, conducting mail votes for host organizations and the Loftin Award recipient, and notifying members of the Seventh Congress. He also noted the disbandment of Canton UFO Research and the cessation of publication for Saucer Scoop, while welcoming new members like the Unidentified Flying Objects Investigating Team and the National Scientific Aerial Phenomena Research Organization.

Resolution from the Sixth Annual Congress (Charleston, West Virginia, June 20-21, 1969)

A resolution passed at the Sixth Congress censured Walter Zabowsky, alias Mercurius Saturnius Player, for unethical conduct detrimental to Ufology, including unauthorized use of material and appropriation of personal items from fellow researchers. The resolution stated that Zabowsky was anathemized by all members of the Congress.

Appendix No. 2: UFO Opinion Questionnaire (UAPA)

During the Spring of 1970, the United Aerial Phenomena Agency (UAPA) conducted a "UFO Opinion Questionnaire" with 30 questions to gather general views of UFO researchers. Of 123 questionnaires mailed, 75% were returned. The appendix notes that cooperation is key to successful UFO study and thanks those who participated.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue highlights the organizational and administrative aspects of the Congress of Scientific Ufologists, emphasizing its commitment to ethical research practices, membership engagement, and the systematic study of UFO phenomena. The journal documents the formal proceedings, committee reports, and resolutions, reflecting a structured approach to ufological inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific rigor, ethical conduct, and collaborative research within the ufology community. The inclusion of resolutions against unethical behavior and the focus on membership contributions underscore a desire for a well-organized and principled organization.

This issue of "Journal" (Page 65-74) from June 1969 appears to be a survey or questionnaire focused on the state of UFOlogy, featuring a series of questions posed to respondents regarding their views on various aspects of the field. It also includes a detailed case study of a specific UFO sighting.

Survey of UFOlogy Opinions

The survey covers a wide range of topics, reflecting the concerns and perspectives within the UFO community at the time.

Status and Activity of UFOlogy

Respondents were asked about the current status of UFOlogy, with the prevailing sentiment being "Lack of news coverage." When questioned about a slowdown in UFO organizational activity, the reasons cited were "Lack of publicity due to no news coverage of sightings." A significant majority (80%) felt that fewer sightings were being reported, with only 15% disagreeing and 5% undecided.

UFO Organizations and the Condon Report

The disbanding of UFO organizations was attributed to "lack of interest" (35%), the "Condon" report (17%), "no support" (9%), and "news coverage" (8%). The Condon Report itself was viewed critically, with one respondent calling it a "Cover up by Condon, working for U.S.A.F.".

"Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects" and Project Blue Book

Regarding the book "Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects," comments on the conclusion about the six Fort Belvoir "black ring" photos were predominantly negative (65%), with 30% positive and 5% possible. The closure of the Air Force's Project Blue Book was overwhelmingly attributed to the Condon Report (70%), followed by money (20%) and miscellaneous reasons (10%).

"Congress of Scientific UFOlogists"

The "Congress of Scientific UFOlogists" was assessed as a study group capable of accomplishment, with opinions split: 45% yes, 45% no, and 10% miscellaneous. Proposed projects for this group included "Better Publicity for Congress," "Project Grey File," and "Watch Center." The last session held in Charleston, West Virginia, in June 1969, received mixed reviews: 28% good, 20% bad, 25% did not attend, and 27% offered miscellaneous answers.

Beliefs and Theories

Belief in the "Men in Black" theory was divided, with 55% no, 35% yes, and 10% uncertain. Organized activity to halt UFO research was denied by 60% of respondents, with 20% believing it exists and 20% citing miscellaneous reasons, including "To confuse the public - not by the Government." Contactee claims received limited support, with 55% no, 30% yes, and 15% undecided. Notable contactees mentioned were Hill, Darrenberger, and Fry.

The fatality case of Thomas Mantell Jr. was believed to be caused by a UFO by 60% of respondents, with 35% disagreeing. The Allende Letters, introduced by Morris K. Jessup, were considered to have a relation to UFOs by only 15% of respondents, with 60% undecided and 25% no.

Secret UFO bases were thought to exist in remote areas by 40%, with an equal percentage (40%) disagreeing and 20% undecided. Suggested locations included Polar, Undersea, and Not Physical.

A strong link between UFOs and blackouts was believed by 80% of respondents. A similarity between the Lonnie Zamora incident (Soccoro, New Mexico) and the Eddie Laxton Case (Texas-Oklahoma border) was noted by 30%, with another 30% disagreeing and 30% unaware of the subject.

With the moon landing, past theories of UFO bases on the moon were doubted by 40% of respondents, with 35% not doubting and 25% undecided.

The news media was perceived to have given less recognition to the UFO subject within the past year by 90% of respondents, with "Controlled News" and the "Condon Report" cited as reasons.

Favoritism among UFO theories showed a strong preference for "Extraterrestrial" (55%), followed by "Scientific Explanation" (15%), and "Other" (15%). Terrestrial and Alternate Reality theories each received 5% support.

Regarding UFOs, 80% of respondents believed they were "Other" (not hostile or friendly), 18% believed they were friendly, and 2% believed they were hostile.

Several UFO researchers were noted as having "slipped out of the UFO field," including Moseley (20%), Kehoe (20%), Chop (15%), Evans (15%), Whritnoure (15%), and Jessup (15%).

Top UFO personalities contributing in the past three years were listed as Corol Loranzen (Oldest Publication - Still Publishing), Dr. Hynak (Scientific Methods), and John Keel (Interesting Theories Very Complex). For all history of UFOlogy, the top personalities were Kehoe (Starting With Publishing And Good Publicity), Vallie (Scientific Methods), and Fort (Early Contributions of Unknowns).

Active UFO Organizations and Publications

Active UFO organizations contributing useful material were listed as APRO, UAPA, and NICAP. Top books in UFOlogy included "Report on UFO's" by Ruppelt, "Anatomy of a Phenomena" by Vallie, and "Flying Saucers Are Real" by Kehoe. Active UFO publications were APRO Bulletin, Flying Saucer Digest & Flying Saucer Review, Flying Saucers, Saucers Space & Science, and Saucer News & N.I.C.A.P. Investigators.

Major UFO Sightings and Landings

Major UFO sightings of all time were identified as the Lonnie Samora incident, Trindade Island, and Arnold & Gil. Major UFO landings were listed as Soccoro, New Mexico; Hopkinsville, Kentucky; and Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The "Bonnie Berea" Case

This section details a UFO sighting that occurred on June 22, 1967, referred to as the "Bonnie Berea" case. The investigation involved a phone call to Mr. Don Brill, co-owner of Commerce Photo Studios, who had received two photos of an unknown object photographed within the last month. The initial investigation revealed that the photos were taken around 3 a.m. in May, by an anonymous witness referred to as "Bonnie."

Stage #1 & #2: Initial Contact and Information Gathering

Mr. Brill stated he received the photos from a "go-between" who was in the same room. The camera used was an Insta-matic. The witness was reluctant to be identified. The investigation proceeded through the "go-between" who eventually revealed the witness's name was "Bonnie." The "go-between" stated that Bonnie was upset because no one believed her story. The editor's note indicates suspicion that the witness did not take the pictures.

Stage #3: Negative Exchange and Witness Fear

On June 26, 1967, the investigator met with the "go-between" who had picked up the negatives. The "go-between" admitted the witness was frightened by a telephone call she received on Saturday, stating someone would pick up the pictures and negatives. Blow-ups of the pictures were made. The "go-between" appeared sincere and honest.

Stage #4: Direct Witness Interview

On the evening of June 26, 1967, the witness, "Bonnie," was interviewed at her place of employment, a restaurant-cafe in Berea. The pictures were taken on or about May 4th or 5th, 1967, around 3:25 a.m. Another witness, her father, saw the object in North Ridgeville Township before driving to Berea to meet his daughter. The object was photographed when the witness was on the second floor of an apartment in Berea.

#### About the Object

The object was described as "very bright" with colors of "bright red and orange (like the color of a sun at sunset)." It hovered outside the apartment window, wobbling on its axis, with a "definitely spinning" center section referred to as a "platform." The "platform" had bright lights all around. The top of the object was rounded like an egg, and the bottom was also rounded, like a toy top. The object was visible for approximately 3 to 5 minutes.

#### Her Personal Feeling About the Object

The witness was "shaken to the point of not turning away" and "could not take her eyes off the object." She felt captivated, her body became rigid, and she thought the object was coming down. She estimated its size to be the length of a car and about 3 to 4 feet thick, and very close.

Evaluation of Testimony and Summation

Witness appeared calm but very excited, and was believed to be telling the truth. She had no prior knowledge of UFOs and had previously laughed at people claiming to have seen UFOs. A 304 Insta-matic camera was used. The witness turned over negatives for further study and agreed to loan pictures for color slides if negatives were returned. She also agreed to allow questioning of her father and to permit access to her apartment for future photography and measurements. A sketch of the object was made. The witness provided her first name, "Bonnie," and a telephone number.

Stage #5: Unsuccessful Follow-up

An attempt to contact the witness on June 28, 1967, to return the negatives and prints was unsuccessful, with no answer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the perceived decline and challenges facing UFOlogy, including media silence, organizational fragmentation, and skepticism towards official reports like the Condon Report. The detailed case study of the "Bonnie Berea" incident highlights the investigative process, the challenges of witness testimony, and the descriptive characteristics of a UFO sighting. The editorial stance appears to be one of thorough investigation and documentation, as evidenced by the multi-stage approach to the "Bonnie Berea" case and the inclusion of editor's notes to clarify observations and suspicions.

This document consists of several pages from a publication, likely a journal or newsletter, focusing on UFO research and international policy related to unidentified aerial phenomena. The pages include personal accounts, press releases, congress resolutions, and official correspondence, primarily from the Intercontinental U.F.O. Research and Analytic Network (ICUFON).

Page 75: Witness Account

This page details a series of telephone calls made in June 1967 regarding a witness. On June 29, 1967, three calls to the witness's home went unanswered. On June 30, 1967, at 2:47 p.m., a call was successful. The witness stated she had been out and believed her handbag, containing pictures, had been stolen. The narrator offered to use original negatives to obtain more pictures. The negatives were subsequently given to Mr. Brill on July 2, 1967, who estimated it would take 5 to 7 days to get the new pictures.

Page 76: Bonnie Berea Case Conclusion

This page discusses the conclusion of the Bonnie Berea Case. It mentions Ron Pelger identifying an object in a picture from a Post magazine dated December 17, 1966, with identical markings, suggesting the case was a hoax. The author expresses gratitude for conscientious investigators associated with UAPA who do not rush to judgment. The Bonnie Berea Case is officially closed as an "earnest endeavor to perpetrate a hoax-- which did not work."

Page 77: ICUFON Press Release #12

This press release, dated June 26, 1970, from ICUFON, addresses the "GRAVE INTERNATIONAL RESPONSIBILITY BEHIND THE UNITED STATES POLICY ON THE NON-TERRESTRIAL AERIAL OBJECTS (UFOS) ACTIVITY." Issued at the 7th Congress of Scientific Ufologists in Columbus, Ohio, it references a February 7, 1966, UN memorandum urging UN surveillance of non-terrestrial aerial vehicles. The release outlines supporting evidence for this proposal, including decades of observations of powerful alien spacecrafts with abnormal configurations and maneuvers, not identifiable as earthly origin. It argues that these craft's activities, often near strategic installations, pose a threat to national and global security, indicating a planned permanent landing. The document states these claims were verified by a "comprehensive world wide comparative analysis."

Page 78: ICUFON Press Release #12 (Continued)

This section continues the ICUFON press release, detailing conclusions that international cooperation is vital and should be prioritized for international security. It recounts how the US government intervened at the UN, objecting to international control on UFOs and demanding the removal of the memorandum's originator, Colman VonKeviczky. Simultaneously, the Johnson Administration allegedly assured the UN Secretary-General that a scientific study would commence at the University of Colorado (the 'Condon Report'). The document then lists several instances where the US government allegedly obstructed ICUFON's efforts, including silencing public declarations, side-tracking proposals for UN conferences, stopping international symposiums, and refusing to place UFOs on the UN agenda. It also mentions rejections from the House of Representatives and the UN Outer Space Division.

Page 79: ICUFON Press Release #12 (Continued)

This part of the press release details further actions by ICUFON, including submitting a memorandum on December 9, 1969, to convene a World Congress for International Consideration of Non-Terrestrial Objects Activity. It notes that seven days later, the US Air Force released information stating no evidence had been found over 25 years that UFOs represent unknown technological developments or extraterrestrial spacecraft. ICUFON counters this by referencing a January 26, 1953, US AF explanation that UFOs were of "INTERPLANETARY ORIGIN." The document draws a parallel between historical "unidentifiable human beings" landing in America and current UFO activity, questioning President Nixon about potential future events. It strongly asserts that "GLOBAL SECURITY AND HUMAN CIVILIZATION SHOULD NOT BE SUBJECT TO ONE NATIONS' POLICY!" ICUFON proposes constructive actions for the 7th Congress of Scientific Ufologists, including reaffirming the Mainz UFO Resolution and developing a national UFO authority.

Page 80: ICUFON Press Release #12 (Continued)

This section continues ICUFON's proposals, advocating for the organization of a coordinated voluntary observer network and the development of a National Security and Scientific UFO Authority. It criticizes the US government's 25-year policy on UFOs as discredited and suggests that the University of Colorado study is of dubious value. The document emphasizes the need for action rather than prolonged discussion, highlighting the potential danger posed by "UNIDENTIFIABLE" alien crafts. It concludes with a strong warning: "DO SOMETHING UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE. The irresponsible negligence, and willful confusion of the population about the facts, are the gravest offense against the existence of our civilization." The release is signed by Colman VonKeviczky, Project Director of ICUFON, and Karl L. Veit, President of the European UFO/IFO Scientific Research Association.

Page 81: Resolution of the 7th International UFO Congress

This document is the "RESOLUTION OF THE 7th INTERNATIONAL UFO CONGRESS" held in Mainz, West Germany, from November 3-6, 1967. It begins with "CONSIDERATIONS," noting that governmental authorities and scientists have urged immediate UN investigation of the global UFO problem. It states that the International UFO Research and Analytic Network presented "conclusive, scientifically analysed proof of the existence of intelligently guided devices in our aero-space and test-landings originating from outer space." The "RESOLUTION" section unanimously proclaims that UFOs are "IDENTIFIED VEHICLES FROM OUTER SPACE" and a "QUESTION OF A VITAL PROBLEM CONCERNING THE WHOLE WORLD." It calls for all nations to unite in mutual research and scientific cooperation.

Page 82: Resolution of the 7th International UFO Congress (Continued)

This section continues the resolution from the 7th International UFO Congress. Part "A" addresses "The UFO Question as a Global Problem," stating that UFOs are aerial vehicles "not manufactured by any nation on this Earth" and originate from celestial bodies. It notes that despite this, no official explanation has been provided to the public. It highlights the increasing UFO reconnaissance activity and test landings, leading to public fear and misinformation. The resolution calls for immediate and expert investigation. It also suggests that UFOs observe and sometimes endanger nations' installations and networks, and their behavior can appear unfriendly. It emphasizes the need for an internationally organized evaluation and research of UFO sightings for mutual information, establishing official contact, and preparing for global emergencies. It stresses that no private organization should monopolize the investigation and that facts must be separated from science fiction. Finally, it calls for the establishment of an "INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE" on extraterritorial grounds.

Page 83: Resolution of the 7th International UFO Congress (Continued)

Part "B" of the resolution relates "UFO Problem Related To The United Nations." It calls for the UN Constitution to prioritize global security and for the UN to be authorized as the supreme authority in outer space, with astro-cosmonauts as legal representatives. It proposes that the Earth's ionosphere be declared "SOVEREIGN SPACE TERRITORY" under UN jurisdiction. The Intercontinental UFO Research and Analytic Network proposes a "Global Security Project" and requests support for establishing an "INTERCONTINENTAL UFO RESEARCH INSTITUTE." The resolution was submitted to governments, the UN Secretary General, and other international bodies. It is signed by Colman VonKeviczky and Carl L. Veit.

Page 84: Austrian Mission Letter

This is a letter from the Austrian Mission to the United Nations, dated December 6, 1967, addressed to Mr. Colman VonKeviczky. The letter acknowledges receipt of his letter dated November 29, 1967, and assures him that its contents, particularly the Resolution of the 7th International UFO Congress, have been brought to the attention of the Outer Space Affairs Group at the UN Secretariat.

Page 85: Schedule of Actions

This page presents a "SCHEDULE" of "ACTIONS INSTITUTED AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECRETARIAT FOR GLOBAL SECURITY CONCERNING THE INTERNATIONAL STUDY OF ALIEN SPACE VEHICLES ACTIVITY, ORIGINATED FROM OUTER SPACE CELESTIAL BODIES." It lists actions from June 1965 to March 1968, detailing who was involved, the subject of action, and the result. Notable entries include Colman VonKeviczky's memorandum to the UN Secretary General requesting a committee to supervise global UFO analysis (result: silenced), the submission of an "International Space Security Pact proposal" (result: 4 articles accepted in the International Space Treaty), and proposals to invite UFO scientists to a UN Conference (accepted by Dr. Kurt Waldheim). It also notes the US AF's "Project Bluebook" and the University of Colorado's "Condon" study. The schedule also lists governmental UFO projects in Canada, USSR, UK, and France, and the Mainz UFO Resolution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the persistent efforts to establish international cooperation and a unified global approach to the investigation of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on the need for scientific rigor, the separation of fact from fiction, and the potential threat posed by unidentified aerial objects to global security. The editorial stance is critical of governmental secrecy and obstruction, particularly from the United States, which is accused of hindering international efforts and discrediting independent research. The document advocates for transparency, global responsibility, and the establishment of international bodies to manage UFO-related issues. The overall tone is one of urgency and concern regarding the lack of official acknowledgment and coordinated action on what is presented as a critical global problem.

This issue, identified as 'Journal Page 85' through 'Journal Page 92', appears to be a publication from the Cleveland Aerial Phenomena Investigations Club (Capic), dated May 23, 1970. It focuses on UFO research, data collection, and analysis methods.

UFO Watch Filter Center

A letter from Ed Biebel, Watch Captain, addresses 'Filter Center Participants'. It thanks them for their participation and informs them that their telephone numbers are on file. The center will contact participants if sightings occur in their coverage area. The letter notes that it may take several months to gather enough participants for complete national coverage and that this period might be lean for sightings. Participants are also encouraged to inform the center if they are not receiving 'UFO Magazine', as it will feature a section on UFO Watch Filter Center reports. The center also offers master copies of UFO reporting forms and investigation techniques.

Erhardt Data Index System (EDIS)

This section introduces the Erhardt Data Index System (EDIS), designed to list UFO sightings. The system aims to provide a detailed yet concise record of each sighting, using a complex set of abbreviations. The purpose is to facilitate detailed listing and potential computer analysis. A sample sighting from January 1969 is provided to illustrate the system's format. The article explains that the system is a stepping stone towards computer analysis, using symbols for abbreviations to allow for relatively effortless reading. A comprehensive list of abbreviations for various aspects of a sighting, including time, location, witnesses, object type, color, devices, size, speed, altitude, motion, direction, distance, duration, noise, exhaust, traces, and effects, is detailed across several pages.

National Scientific Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (N.S.A.P.R.O.) Annual Report

This report, dated June 1970, covers the activities of N.S.A.P.R.O. since its beginning in January 1967. The last twelve months have been fruitful, with field research teams undertaking intensive programs. The report recounts a specific sky-watch event near Cleveland, Ohio, in July 1969, where members observed a large reddish object. The organization uses scientific instrumentation for recording sightings. The report reflects on the vastness of space and the potential origins and purposes of UFO occupants, suggesting that science, combined with faith in God, will provide answers.

U.F.O.R.B.L. (UFO Research Bureau of Lorain)

John J. Robinson presents information for the 7th Annual Congress of Scientific Ufology, dated June 26, 1970. His group, U.F.O.R.B.L., is working to further UFO research by collaborating with other groups and contacting people for information. They have conducted on-the-spot sighting research, including landings and aerial observation. They have secured a meeting place at the Salvation Army in Lorain and invite the public to their meetings to raise awareness about UFOs and alleged government suppression. Robinson's group believes that UFO crafts are extraterrestrial, possibly from a nearby galaxy, using planets in our solar system as staging points. They are seeking the reason for these visits and plan to set up electronic equipment for field research.

American Flying Saucer Investigating Committee (AFSIC)

A resume of the AFSIC is provided, detailing its accomplishments. These include founding the AFSIC Maps & Charts Dept., developing new investigating techniques, conducting research with the National Science Foundation, studying planetary similarities, preparing a history of UFOs in Ohio, collaborating with Senator William B. Saxbe regarding Project Bluebook, and researching sighting concentrations and psychological aspects of ufology.

Observing UFOs Scientifically: Triangulation Method

This article discusses methods for scientifically observing UFOs, emphasizing the need for measurable data. It proposes using triangulation, a method employed by astronomers, to measure the distance to a UFO. This involves observing the phenomenon simultaneously from three widely separated bases whose distances are pre-measured. The article explains how simple, home-made instruments called Quadrants can be used, and how observers can inter-communicate using walkie-talkie radios. It details the setup of such a triangulation base on a farm, including the selection of sites, the use of measurement tools, and the importance of teamwork and an open mind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the systematic study and documentation of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on scientific methodology, data collection, and the development of standardized systems for recording and analyzing sightings, as exemplified by EDIS and the triangulation method. The publications highlight the efforts of various organizations (Capic, N.S.A.P.R.O., U.F.O.R.B.L., AFSIC) dedicated to UFO research. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry, seeking empirical evidence and rational explanations while acknowledging the profound mysteries surrounding UFOs. There's a blend of scientific rigor with an underlying belief in the extraterrestrial nature of some UFOs, and a call for continued research and open-mindedness.

Title: UFO Magazine
Issue: Winter 1969-70
Publisher: UFO Magazine Publications
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of UFO Magazine delves into various aspects of ufology, from practical measurement techniques to global awareness and the archival of important UFO-related data. It features articles on surveying methods, a discussion on the international perception of UFOs, and correspondence regarding the preservation of the Project Blue Book files. Additionally, it includes a tribute to the late Dr. Miran Lindtner, a significant figure in the UFO community.

Measurement Techniques for UFOs

The issue begins with a detailed explanation of how to measure the distances of UFOs, focusing on methods that do not necessarily require sophisticated equipment. The primary method described involves triangulation, using a surveyor's transit to establish angles between base lines. The article outlines a step-by-step process for setting up base lines, measuring angles, and using a protractor to determine distances. It also introduces an alternative method using a surveyor's level rod and transit, which relies on the principle of similar triangles to estimate distances. The author expresses a hope for future advancements in instrumentation, such as optical range finders and instruments capable of measuring light intensity and electromagnetic fields, which would make UFO observation and data collection more efficient.

Global UFO Awareness

Robert S. Easley contributes an article titled "The Question of World-Wide Knowledge About UFOs." He notes that while UFOs are generally accepted as a worldwide phenomenon, his personal survey in various Western Pacific countries revealed a surprisingly low level of awareness among the general populace. Despite asking 100 English-speaking individuals in each location about flying saucers, the percentages of those who had heard of them were quite low, with the highest being 12% in the Philippines and 11% in Taiwan, and a mere 3% in South Vietnam. Easley speculates that illiteracy and a lack of engagement with media in some underdeveloped nations might contribute to this lack of awareness. He suggests that educational initiatives might be necessary to bridge this knowledge gap.

Preservation of Project Blue Book Files

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to correspondence concerning the disposition of the United States Air Force's Project Blue Book records. Allen H. Greenfield writes a letter to Senator Richard B. Russell, urging that the files be preserved, perhaps in the Library of Congress, due to their potential value for scientific and sociological research, regardless of the objective reality of the UFO phenomenon. Senator Russell forwards this inquiry to the Department of the Air Force. A response from Colonel Kenneth Bill, USAF, confirms that the Air Force considers the accumulated documents from the past 21 years of UFO investigation to be of definite historical value. The records will be stored intact at the Air Force Archives at Maxwell AFB, Alabama, and will be accessible to bona fide researchers and news media representatives upon application.

Tribute to Dr. Miran Lindtner

The issue features a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Miran Lindtner, who passed away in August 1969. Written by Frederick J. M. Phillips, President of U.F.O.I.C. Sydney, the article highlights Lindtner's diverse talents and contributions. Lindtner was a Veterinary Research Officer, President of U.F.O.I.C. for 16 years, and a respected figure in the international ufology community. Beyond his UFO work, he was also accomplished in various other fields, including veterinary science, music (piano and violin), composition, chess, painting, and sports, having served in the Yugoslavian Air Force and represented Yugoslavia in soccer. The tribute emphasizes his kindness, wisdom, and dedication to others, noting his role in helping migrants settle in Australia and his founding of the Yugoslavian Soccer Club. A memorial service was held, where his musical compositions were played.

Editor's Note and Publication Details

An editor's note expresses the hope that this special edition will encourage other researchers to investigate the UFO field seriously, with the aim of solving the enigma of UFOs. It also mentions that scheduled features for this issue will be incorporated into the Winter issue. The publication details for UFO Magazine are provided: it is published quarterly by UFO Magazine Publications, P.O. Box 2708, Cleveland, Ohio 44111. Subscriptions in the U.S. and Canada are $2.00 yearly and $3.00 overseas. The editorial team includes Rick and Janie Hilberg (Editors), Edward Biebel (Managing Editor), Robert Easley (Assistant Editor), and Billy Shears (Chief Investigator).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of UFOs, the importance of data collection and preservation, and the global nature of the phenomenon. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and a desire to advance the understanding of UFOs through rigorous research and the sharing of information. There is a clear emphasis on the historical and scientific value of UFO-related data, as evidenced by the focus on Project Blue Book and the encouragement for researchers to contribute to the field.