Probe - Vol 5 No 1 - 1968

Magazine Overview

Title: PROBE
Subtitle: THE CONTROVERSIAL PHENOMENA MAGAZINE
Issue: Volume 5, No. 1
Date: 1968 SEPTEMBER
Price: 75 CENTS

This issue of PROBE Magazine, published by Space Age Communications, Inc., is dedicated to exploring controversial phenomena, with a strong emphasis on UFOs. The cover prominently features the headline "AUTHENTIC UFO PHOTOGRAPHS" and boldly challenges the "SCIENTIFIC OBJECTIVITY" of the University of Colorado's UFO Project, accusing them of hiding facts from the public.

Editorial Stance and Publisher Information

PROBE is published bi-monthly with executive offices in Washington, D.C., and editorial and subscription offices in Woonsocket, R.I. The subscription price is $3.00 for four issues and $4.00 for six issues. The magazine asserts its rights are reserved, including reproduction, but grants permission for quoting up to 1,000 words with proper credit. Manuscripts are considered but the publisher is not responsible for loss or damage. Advertising data is available upon request.

The editorial, written by J. L. Ferriere, reflects on life as a sequence of emotions and the human desire to contribute to society. Ferriere discusses the challenges faced by the publication, including financial burdens and attempts to disrupt its communication with readers. He expresses gratitude for the support received, which allowed PROBE to return "older, wiser and even STRONGER." The editorial emphasizes a commitment to presenting information clearly, without personal prejudice and with pure logic. It is dedicated to Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Dr. Jacques Vallee for their "TRUE SCIENTIFIC OBJECTIVITY IN UFO RESEARCH."

Key Articles and Reports

New UFO Photos: A Documented Sighting

This section details a personal UFO sighting by editor Joseph L. Ferriere on July 3, 1967, in the Cumberland, Rhode Island area. Ferriere observed a large, cigar-shaped aerial object for approximately four minutes. He took seven photographs of the object, which he describes as drab, non-reflecting charcoal grey, about 75 to 100 feet long, and hovering at an estimated height of 150 to 200 feet. He noted four rounded lighter "spots" and a "piston-like" apparatus that seemed to move in and out of one end. He also observed what appeared to be an open "hatch" or "trap-door."

During the observation, a smaller, disc-shaped object, estimated to be 12 to 15 feet in diameter and 6 to 7 feet high, was ejected from the larger craft. This smaller object moved at a tremendous speed. Ferriere managed to photograph both the cigar-shaped object and the disc-shaped object, which he describes as having a high degree of reflectivity and surface irregularities. He notes that the entire observation lasted no more than four minutes and that no sound was detected from either object. The photographs and negatives were examined by WJAR-TV and other photographic experts.

I Met A Man From Another World!

This article recounts the experience of Woodrow W. Derenberger, a salesman from Parkersburg, West Virginia, on the night of November 2, 1966. While driving his truck on Interstate Highway I-77, a "vehicle from outer space" landed on the road ahead of him, forcing him to stop. Derenberger describes the object as a ship without lights that came alongside his truck and then turned crosswise on the highway, blocking his path. A door opened, and a man emerged. Derenberger states he was not frightened and conversed with the pilot of the space craft. This incident is presented as one of many "outer-space contacts" expanding globally, with the hope that studying such cases might provide clues to solving the UFO mystery.

Other Content

The table of contents lists additional articles such as "I Met A Man From Another World," "The Mysterious Story Of Mr. Trudel," "Coincidence Or Confirmation," "Has Anybody Seen This Man?" and "UFO Sighting Reports." The magazine also includes a section on "The Colorado UFO Project."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, photographic evidence of UFOs, and a critical stance towards official scientific investigations, particularly the University of Colorado's UFO Project. The editorial emphasizes the importance of controversial phenomena, intellectual honesty, and the pursuit of truth, even in the face of adversity. The magazine positions itself as a platform for presenting evidence and accounts that challenge conventional explanations and scientific objectivity, advocating for a more open and less prejudiced approach to UFO research. The support from readers and new allies is highlighted as crucial to the magazine's continued publication.

This issue of PROBE magazine, dated July 1967, delves into various UFO and contactee experiences, offering a mix of personal accounts, research findings, and promotional material for related organizations and products.

A Man From Space Speaks - AMANO -

This section presents a dictation from 'Amano' to Mark Dewey, detailing 'Techniques for Higher Contacts'. It is presented as a manuscript form available for $3.00 from AMAN CIRCULATING LIBRARY in Houston, Texas. The content promises insights into 'UFO occupants' and 'humanoid' flying saucer pilots, drawing from accounts of UFO landings and sightings.

Flying Saucer Pictures

This advertisement offers three classic, high-quality reproductions of UFO sightings, described as brilliant full-color, sharply detailed, and not blurred photographs. These 12 x 16 inch prints are presented as conversation pieces and are available for $2.00 from GALAXY RESEARCH in Detroit, Michigan.

The Derenberger Encounter

The main narrative details an extraordinary encounter experienced by a man identified as Mr. Derenberger. He recounts being contacted telepathically by an entity named Mr. Cold, who emerged from a hovering, metallic craft. Mr. Cold, described as approximately 5'10" to 11" tall with dark hair and a pleasant demeanor, engaged Derenberger in conversation, explaining he was a 'searcher' and that his 'gathering' was a place of business and trade. Derenberger, initially frightened, was reassured by Mr. Cold's calm demeanor and explanation that he meant no harm. The ship remained hovering above Derenberger's truck during their conversation. Mr. Cold shared details about his home planet, its similarities to Earth, and his people's lack of understanding of 'hate'. He also mentioned his family and their life expectancy. The encounter concluded with Mr. Cold stating he would meet Derenberger again, and the ship departed with a soft, fluttering sound. Following the incident, Derenberger reported his experience to local authorities and the media, receiving a mixed but generally supportive reception.

Telepathic Contact and Alien Information

Further encounters with Mr. Cold are described, involving telepathic communication while Derenberger was driving. Mr. Cold provided information about his planet, Lanulos, and its people, who have a life expectancy of 125-175 Earth years and experience three climates: planting, harvesting, and cold. He explained that his people do not understand 'hate' and consider themselves 'brothers'. He also mentioned that his people have a legend about their forefathers coming from Earth in a spaceship. Mr. Cold expressed a desire for his people to make friendly contact and trade with Earth, but noted that the government had not granted his request for safe landing, citing concerns about placing himself and his ship in their hands. He also stated that his people have a Guiding Council, not a government, and that crime is unknown on their planet. They communicate via telepathy and have their own language. Mr. Cold's first name was revealed as Indrid.

Companionship and Cultural Exchange

On another visit, Mr. Cold was accompanied by Carl Ardo, who served as a navigator. They discussed human life, culture, and societal structures, with Mr. Cold showing no interest in military strength or weapons. He reiterated that his people do not understand 'hate' and believe in one God. Despite past hostility, including being shot at, Mr. Cold's people wish to make friendly contact and trade, believing they have valuable resources to offer Earth.

The Harold Trudel Case

The issue prominently features the story of Harold A. Trudel, a resident of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, who claims to have had multiple UFO sightings and photographic evidence. The article details an incident on July 17, 1967, where Trudel felt an 'urge' to visit a specific location with a loaded camera. There, he encountered a tall, handsome man who led him to a large UFO. Trudel managed to take twenty-five photographs of the object over several intervals in June and July 1967. The photographs were described as controversial, eliciting reactions from 'fraud' to 'complete belief'. The article notes that Trudel's story is complex and will be further explored in a forthcoming book.

UFO Sightings and Power Outage

Further accounts of Trudel's experiences include a sighting on June 10, 1967, where he photographed a bell-shaped, metallic object near high-tension lines. This object was described as having an 'antenna' protruding from its lower portion. Six days later, Trudel photographed a similar object without the antenna. The area became a focal point for UFO activity, with organized 'sky-watch' parties forming. The editor, accompanied by others, also witnessed a glowing red object that approached them before veering away. A significant event occurred on July 11, 1967, when Trudel photographed a domed, saucer-shaped object hovering over power lines. Shortly after, 19,800 consumers in Woonsocket experienced a complete power failure. Residents reported hearing a 'rumbling' sound and seeing a 'white fire-ball'. While officials theorized natural causes, the timing of the blackout with Trudel's sighting fueled public speculation.

Controversy and Skepticism

The July 13th edition of the Woonsocket Call published one of Trudel's blackout photos with the headline, "DOES UFO SHED LIGHT ON R.I. BLACKOUT?". The controversy intensified, with an executive from the Woonsocket Call quoted as saying, "I don't know if I believe in UFOs, but when they land I'm going to be awfully polite." However, some residents, like Leonard Brodt, who had previously seen and photographed a UFO, expressed skepticism. Brodt, who spent considerable time on skywatch duty, never saw anything similar to Trudel's claims again, leading him to believe he might have been deceived.

AFSCA Resources and Book Lists

The magazine includes extensive advertising for the Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America (AFSCA). This organization is described as a worldwide nonprofit research group offering a comprehensive source of contactee-oriented Flying Saucer information. They provide books, photos, and contactee reports. A detailed book list is presented, categorized into 'Space Tapes' (recorded messages from alleged space people), 'Masterworks Series', and 'Pocket Books' related to UFOs and contactee experiences. A separate 'New Age Book List' offers titles on New Age ideas, concepts, and evidence of ancient extraterrestrial visitations. Prices and ordering information are provided for subscriptions, books, and other merchandise like membership cards, buttons, and bumper stickers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around extraterrestrial contact, telepathic communication, and the physical evidence of UFOs, primarily through photographic documentation. The magazine appears to present these accounts with a degree of seriousness, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of alien visitation and interaction. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, providing a platform for contactees and researchers to share their experiences and findings. The promotion of AFSCA and its resources suggests a commitment to advancing the study and understanding of the Flying Saucer Movement. The inclusion of both detailed personal accounts and a catalog of related literature indicates an effort to engage readers on multiple levels, from anecdotal evidence to more structured research materials.

This issue of "UFO Report" (likely a newsletter or magazine focused on UFO phenomena) from July 1967 delves into several intriguing cases and controversies within the UFO research community. The content is primarily focused on witness accounts, photographic evidence, and critical analysis of official investigations.

The Trudel-Rainville Case: A Photographic Mystery

The issue highlights the case involving Harold A. Trudel and Paul V. Rainville. Trudel photographed a UFO on July 11, 1967, in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Paul V. Rainville later identified this craft as similar to one he had spotted in Blackstone the previous week. A key event described is an experiment conducted by the editor involving Trudel's photographs. Rainville was presented with twelve UFO photos, and he independently selected the one taken by Trudel on July 17, 1967, the same date he had his own sighting. This was seen as significant independent verification. The article suggests that Trudel's story, if true, presents evidence of observations generated specifically for him, for reasons yet unfathomable.

The Mysterious Ramor Bolak and Paul Rainville's Ordeal

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the experiences of Paul V. Rainville, who reported a series of chilling visitations by a mysterious man named Ramor Bolak. These encounters began after Rainville's UFO sighting on July 17, 1967. Bolak, described as having black hair, large eyes, and a cold demeanor, warned Rainville to cease his UFO investigations. Rainville was followed by a black Cadillac on multiple occasions, and he felt increasingly threatened. The article includes Rainville's own dated notations detailing these events, including an encounter on August 8, 1967, where he was followed for three hours, and another on August 10, 1967, where Bolak appeared directly in front of his house. A later encounter on August 11, 1967, involved Bolak stating, "My name is Ramor Bolak, I understand you do quite a bit of sightseeing at Elder Ballou Road." Bolak's final warning was, "I will see you just once more for my decision." The magazine also features a drawing of Ramor Bolak, created by Rainville's sister Janet based on his description. The editor concludes that while Rainville is now happily married, his peace of mind came at a high price, and he still retains his interest in UFOs.

Critique of the Colorado UFO Project

The issue launches a strong critique against the Colorado UFO Project, headed by Dr. Edward Condon. The editorial staff expresses disillusionment, accusing the project of intellectual dishonesty and perversion of scientific integrity. They argue that the project's aim was not to determine the true nature of UFOs but to discredit individuals who reported sightings. The article references a "memo" by Robert Lowe, the Project Coordinator, which allegedly stated the project's basic aim was to "APPEAR" to be objective while actually focusing on the people who report UFOs, not the phenomena themselves. The project is criticized for its expensive taxpayer funding and for allegedly mocking witnesses, such as Kenneth Arnold, by questioning their mental competence. The editorial staff laments the waste of funds that could have been used for more pressing human needs and calls for scientific honesty and integrity to be restored.

Additional Sightings and Reports

Beyond the main narratives, the magazine includes other UFO reports:

• Massachusetts Sighting (June 29, 1967): A witness described a medium grey, cigar-shaped object observed near Lexington, Massachusetts. The object was estimated to be between 242 and 484 feet long and exhibited smooth, continuous changes in direction without sound.
• Canadian Cigar-Shaped UFO (October 3, 1967): Local residents and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Shelborne, Nova Scotia, witnessed a cigar-shaped object glide into the Atlantic Ocean. Fire boats reported a thick, yellowish foam on the water, and Navy divers found no trace of the object.
• Canadian Mine Workers' Sighting (June 13, 1967): Two strange aerial objects, a 36-foot cigar-shaped craft and a 15-foot saucer, were seen hovering near a mine dump in Caledonia, Ontario. Three small men wearing miner-like hats with amber lights were reportedly seen walking beneath the cigar-shaped craft.
• Mrs. Vernon Rainville's Sighting (November 29, 1967): Mrs. Rainville reported seeing a large, bright, cigar-shaped object from which six to eight smaller, round objects emerged and scattered at high speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery surrounding UFO phenomena, the challenges faced by UFO researchers, the alleged suppression or misrepresentation of evidence by official bodies, and the importance of witness testimony. The editorial stance is critical of official investigations, particularly the Colorado UFO Project, and supportive of sincere researchers and credible witness accounts. The magazine emphasizes the need for objective inquiry and expresses concern over the potential for manipulation and deception within the field.

This issue of PROBE magazine, identified by its cover headline "REAL TRUTH behind the FLYING SAUCERS," appears to be a publication dedicated to UFO phenomena and related subjects. The magazine solicits subscriptions and features a variety of classified advertisements for books, other magazines, and services related to the paranormal and esoteric interests.

Subscription Information

Readers interested in the "FANTASTIC NEW SEARCH FOR THE REAL TRUTH" are encouraged to subscribe to PROBE magazine. Subscription rates are provided: four issues for $3.00 and six issues for $4.00. Subscriptions should be sent to PROBE, Joseph L Ferriere, 132 Fifth Ave., WOONSOCKET, R.I. 02895, with checks or money orders.

Classified Advertisements

The classified section is extensive, offering a diverse range of materials and services:

• MARCAP COUNCIL offers a limited edition story titled "JAPHALE IN, MOTHER SHIP OF THIS GALAXY" for $5.95.
• A CANDLE provides a spiritual inquiry for those seeking answers about the "God's Kingdom."
• "SERENE CARDS" are available for $2.50 per deck, advertised for testing, proving, and developing psychic perception and extra-sensory perception. These are offered by Wendell Smith.
• PRUDE MAGAZINE (BACK ISSUES) are advertised, including "The Skywatch Tower Case, #19" for $1.50 and "Saucers Over R.I., #18" for 75¢, both featuring UFO photos. The George Adamski Commemorative Issue, #2314, is also available for 50¢.
• "STAUNTON UFO DESIGNS" (drawings booklet) is offered for $1, as is "THE TIME FOR TONGUES" (English alphabet designs). A larger work, "FLYING SAUCER DESIGNS," with 50 drawings and 200 pages of USA-UFO West Coast mathematical designs, is available for $3.00 from Kenneth Larson.
• ANCIENT STONE BOOKS are promoted for their depiction of prehistoric races, extinct animals, and forgotten cultures, with a photo brochure available for $1.00.
• PHENOMENA MAGAZINE offers issues covering Ghosts, Monsters, and Flying Saucers. Four issues cost $2.00, and single copies are 65¢. Payments are to be made to Armand A. Laprade.
• SAUCERS, SPACE & SCIENCE is described as a serious study of the UFO enigma, featuring articles and authentic photos. Single copies are 50¢, and a 4-issue subscription is $2.00, available from Gene Duplantier.
• BEST "UFO" SLIDES are advertised from Switzerland, offering three color slides for $3.00 or twelve selected slides for $10.00.

ORION Magazine and Christian Spiritual Alliance

The back page introduces ORION Magazine and the Christian Spiritual Alliance. ORION Magazine is described as a non-profit brotherhood publication that prints esoteric, religious, and educational books and pamphlets. It is published bi-monthly and aims to explore "The Worlds Within Touched With The Reach Of The Mind." Subscription rates for ORION Magazine are $3.00 annually within the U.S., Canada, and Pan American Union, and $4.00 elsewhere. The publication emphasizes freedom of expression for its authors and editors. The Christian Spiritual Alliance is presented as a brotherhood based in Lakemont, Georgia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the investigation into the reality and truth behind flying saucers and UFO phenomena. The magazine serves as a platform for sharing information, photographs, designs, and stories related to these subjects. The classified ads indicate a strong interest in historical accounts, psychic phenomena, and esoteric knowledge, suggesting an editorial stance that is open to exploring unconventional and potentially supernatural topics. The inclusion of ORION Magazine on the back page broadens the scope to include religious and spiritual dimensions, indicating a holistic approach to unexplained phenomena and personal discovery.