Saucer News - Whole Number 46 - Vol 08 No 04 - 1961 12

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: Volume 8, Number 4 (Whole Number 46)
Date: December 1961
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Language: English

Editorial: Saucers and Fascism

The editorial in this issue of SAUCER NEWS breaks its usual policy of avoiding politics to address what the editor perceives as an alarming Fascist trend, both nationally and within the saucer research community. The editor draws a parallel to historical patterns in Germany and Italy in the 1930s and expresses concern about the United States potentially following suit. Examples cited include right-wing extremists picketing the President, 'minute-men' stockpiling weapons, and the activities of Lincoln Rockwell, the self-proclaimed Commander of the American Nazi Party. The editorial also critiques individuals within the saucer movement who exhibit similar tendencies, specifically mentioning William Dudley Pelley, who served time for sedition and founded 'Soulcraft,' a blend of spiritualism and Fascist politics. George Hunt Williamson, a former associate of Pelley, is also mentioned. The editor criticizes Roger Pierce, former editor of 'Cosmic News,' for his right-wing views, and Norbert Gariety, editor of 'S.P.A.C.E.,' for increasingly devoting his publication to diatribes favoring the John Birch Society and other far-right groups. Gariety's stance is described as allowing no middle ground between his views and Communism. The editorial concludes by stating that while readers are free to subscribe to any publication, SAUCER NEWS is making its own views clear on the subject of politics and does not intend to dwell on it further.

Cover Story

The cover features a photograph of Truman Betherum and his bride, the former Miss Alvira McRoberts, taken shortly after their wedding at the 1961 Saucer Convention at Giant Rock, California. The article notes that the ceremony took place on the speakers' platform, officiated by an elderly preacher who had forgotten most of his lines. Betherum is described as having taken time out from selling his books and pamphlets to get married before returning to his business. The article also references Aura Rhanes, a 'space woman' from an invisible planet behind the Moon, who allegedly caused Betherum's first marriage to break up. More details about the convention are promised on Page 12.

Contents

The issue includes an Editorial, Letters to the Editor, Recent News Stories, a Book Review of George Adamski's "Flying Saucers Farewell," and a Feature Article titled "A Reporter's Report (Part One)" by Ivan T. Sanderson.

Book Review: Flying Saucers Farewell (Adamski)

Reviewed by James W. Moseley, this section discusses George Adamski's latest book, "Flying Saucers Farewell." The book is divided into two parts: the first covers Adamski's philosophical insights from his alleged contacts with 'Space Brothers,' and the second details his 1959 world tour. The tour included an audience with Queen Juliana of the Netherlands but was marred by a disruptive incident in Zurich, Switzerland, where college students protested his lecture. Adamski attributes this disruption to the 'Silence Group' or 'International Bankers,' whom he believes are trying to suppress knowledge about Space Visitors. The review highlights Adamski's unusual remarks about mathematics, particularly his assertion that 'Nature works on the principle of one and one adding up to three,' and his critique of the 'zero' in the current mathematical system. The reviewer notes that Adamski's ideas about mathematics are not well-founded. The review also touches upon Frank Scully's "Behind the Flying Saucers" and its claims about flying saucers having measurements divisible by nine, suggesting this point actually disproves Scully's book. Adamski is also noted to be releasing a pamphlet called "Cosmic Philosophy" and a monthly newsletter.

Feature Article: A Reporter's Report (Part One) by Ivan T. Sanderson

Ivan T. Sanderson, described as an internationally known naturalist and explorer, discusses the current state of Ufology, 'Neo-Blavatskyism,' and other related topics. He characterizes the year as 'dismal' for those interested in 'Objects seen floating' (O-S-Fs). He mentions the energetic A.P.R.A. in Seattle and SAUCER NEWS as continuing their work, alongside NICAP and the U.S. Air Force. Sanderson criticizes the convention circuit for merely selling other people's books and promoting outdated ideas, suggesting that organizers should learn from promotional tactics used in other industries, like beauty contests. He laments that the 'Saucer boys' focus on 'gorgeous you-know-whats' and 'lenticular aeroforms' rather than more practical aspects of promotion. Sanderson notes that the 'Saucerers haven't come up with anything worthwhile for some time,' despite rumors of 'fabulous stuff' from New Jersey operators. He contrasts the amateurishness of some UFO phenomena presentations with the efforts of 'latter-day greats.' The article also touches on the impact of Sputnik, suggesting it jolted the U.S. out of complacency and into the upper atmosphere, which has had a 'devastating effect' on 'Saucerer friends.' Sanderson questions the lack of answers from official bodies regarding UFOs, noting that only Major Donald Keyhoe of NICAP persistently asks questions, and that a congressional subcommittee is preparing to investigate.

Letters to the Editor

Several readers contribute to this section:

• Francis D. Brownley requests another advertisement for his sale of scarce out-of-print occult, archaeological, and flying saucer books and bulletins.
• Eugene Steinberg comments on the review of Tacker's book, suggesting that by condemning it, SAUCER NEWS is also condemning the Air Force's investigation into UFOs. He also found Non-Scheduled Newsletter #13 interesting, particularly the story about Wayne Aho.
• Steve Erdmann provides information regarding David Wightman's expose of A.P.R.O.'s Ubatuba magnesium fragments. He quotes a letter from Coral Lorenzen of A.P.R.O., who states that Wightman does not know all the facts and makes ridiculous assumptions. A.P.R.O. plans to answer Wightman's attack in a future issue.
• Max B. Miller praises Wightman's review of A.P.R.O.'s 'fragments' as 'UFO research at its best' and believes that supposedly objective saucer research groups should not be coddled.
• Lee R. Elliott expresses amazement at hoax letters and incidents reported in Newsletter #14. He defends the editor against criticism and worries about the magazine being shut down. Elliott also notes the public's concern about the editor's potential employment as a government intelligence agent.
• Mrs. Jim Joiner responds to Justin Case's article on Extrasensory Perception (ESP), arguing that the current world situation is already gloomy and chaotic without ESP. She believes that if ESP were widespread, it would not necessarily lead to barbarism, as humanity already exhibits such traits. She questions why people fear ESP and suggests that if thoughts are loving, there would be nothing to fear.
• Martin S. Elsworthy corrects an assumption in a previous article by ibn Aharon regarding the origin of flying saucers and Ray Palmer's conception of them, stating that Shaver and Palmer learned of Oahspe from a reader, and that flying saucers predate Oahspe.
• Ray Palmer writes a lengthy letter, expressing his agreement with SAUCER NEWS's must-read status despite rare disagreements. He recounts his role in keeping flying saucer information alive after censorship following the Maury Island affair by secretly publishing Fate Magazine.
• Carlos Mentira congratulates SAUCER NEWS on its September issue, praising its improvement and a cover depicting 'Y'hova, the God of Israel.' He also enjoyed a satirical article and suggests including more such material.

Recent News Stories

This section reports on Albert K. Bender, a saucer researcher who was allegedly 'silenced' in 1953. Bender has finally written a book about his experiences, which is being published by Gray Barker. The book is expected in February 1962 and is described as detailing the history of Bender's organization and the events leading to its closure. Bender reportedly offers a solution to the flying saucer mystery, and the manuscript is considered an 'honest revelation' by Barker, though he notes it could be 'most frightening' to those not deeply involved in research.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue of SAUCER NEWS prominently features an editorial stance against Fascism, extending this critique into the UFO community. The magazine also covers book reviews, reader correspondence, and news related to prominent figures and organizations in the UFO field. Recurring themes include the nature of UFO research, the credibility of various researchers and organizations, and the intersection of UFO phenomena with broader societal and political issues. The magazine appears to champion open reporting and critical examination of claims within the UFO community, while also expressing strong opinions on political ideologies that infiltrate the field.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, identified as issue number 11, delves into various UFO-related phenomena, including alleged sightings, purported communications, and the analysis of physical evidence. The publication appears to be a periodical focused on UFO research and related topics, with a critical yet engaged stance.

"Angel Hair" in Nebraska

The article recounts a peculiar incident on November 15th near Chadron, Nebraska, where an unidentified flying object deposited a strange substance on Theodore Goff's farm. This substance, described as "angel hair," consisted of extremely thin fibers that settled like a "finely-knit shroud" over fields, trees, and machinery. Goff reported seeing a "strange ball" flying and rolling through the air, faster than any airplane, which made no noise. The fibers were so fine they were nearly invisible to the naked eye, felt like spider webs, and were much thinner than a human hair. The report notes that these fibers could not be picked up or broken apart but could be burned, and that Air Force radar-jamming fibers are much thicker.

Space Pancake Analysis is Negative

This section reports on the results of the U.S. Air Force's analysis of a "space pancake" from Eagle River. Major William Coleman, the new Pentagon spokesman on UFOs, stated that the pancake was composed of common terrestrial substances like fat, starch, buckwheat hulls, soy bean hulls, and wheat bran. Bacteriological and radiation readings were normal, leading the Air Force to conclude it was "an ordinary pancake of terrestrial origin." The Civilian Saucer Intelligence (C.S.I.) also commissioned an analysis by Isotopes, Inc., which corroborated the Air Force's findings. The article expresses disappointment that this piece of "physical evidence" turned out to be insignificant, possibly a hoax, and criticizes NICAP's "a priori attitude in refusing to investigate it," emphasizing the rarity of physical evidence in UFO sightings and the need for unbiased investigation.

Joe Simonton's Second Sighting

Joe Simonton, the individual associated with the Eagle River pancake story, is reported to have had a second, less spectacular sighting, backed up by a neighbor. He is now giving lectures and receiving mail due to the publicity of his landing story.

Weird "Space Messages" in New York City

The editor recounts attending a pseudo-religious saucer meeting at the Great Northern Hotel in New York, featuring tape recordings made by contactee Gloria Lee, who acted as a "telepathic instrument" for space entities. Sterling Warren, the Master of Ceremonies, introduced the program, which included a Peace Poem and "silent meditation." Six "non-terrestrial beings" were heard, speaking in Gloria Lee's voice. These included an entity named Dr. Hamilton and, surprisingly, Jesus Christ. The recording featured buzzing and humming before Christ's appearance. The editor describes the event as "ridiculous and sacrilegious," noting that Jesus mentioned other Masters and had a vague knowledge of electricity. The program continued with an entity called June of Jupiter, but the editor left before hearing from three other extraterrestrials.

1961 Giant Rock Convention is Disappointing

The editor attended the saucer convention at Giant Rock, California, and found the crowd and enthusiasm significantly lower than in 1960. Changes in the date (to October) and reduced newspaper publicity are cited as possible reasons, though the article suggests that most saucer clubs are generally declining. Several "old guard" contactees were present, including Truman Betherum, Daniel Fry, and George Hunt Williamson, who is pictured with an unidentified follower and ex-saucerer Max Miller. Williamson's speech reportedly focused on his recent trip to Japan, where he was described as a "baby-faced quasi-anthropologist who put the flying saucers on a paying basis."

Other Convention Speakers

Orfeo Angelucci, author of "The Secret of the Saucers" and "Son of the Sun," is mentioned as an "extremely likable fellow." Reverend Frank Stranges, author of "Flying Saucerama," is described as a "hardened professional at the art of crowd-pleasing" and the most successful speaker in terms of generating revenue. Gabriel Green discussed his "Prior Choice Economics" concept, advocating for its adoption to end the money economy. He had previously been a Space Age candidate for President. The editor also thanks George Van Tassel for allowing him to speak at the convention and mentions the Integretron, a project intended to be a "Fountain of Youth," which is progressing slowly despite significant funding.

Convention Entertainment and Cancellations

While no sightings or hoaxes occurred at the convention, an aerial act by stunt flyer Cliff Winters was presented. An anticipated act by Professor Ne-Leh, who billed himself as an "illusionist, mentalist, prestidigitationist (sic) and hypnotismist (SIC)," involving driving a car blindfolded, was unfortunately canceled.

Saucer Photographed in West Virginia

While visiting Clarksburg, W. Va., the editor encountered a sighting overlooked by a local investigator. A teen-ager named Joe Gonzales claims that in the spring of 1960, a saucer-shaped object flew over his home. He described it as about 40 feet in diameter with a giant rudder-like protrusion underneath and portholes. Gonzales took several pictures, the best of which is featured. The article notes that while Gonzales seems sincere, the picture might be of a more common object, like a garbage lid with added protrusions, and that there were no other confirming witnesses.

Fortean Items

This section presents several unusual reports:

• Unidentified Material in Tennessee: A large amount of transparent plastic material fell on vacant land in White Oak Flats, Tennessee, on November 27th, breaking branches on trees. Local farmers were hauling it away to cover crops.
• Astrological Predictions: Indian astrologers predicted "Big Trouble" for the world in early February 1962, coinciding with a planetary alignment, foreseeing an atomic blast, earthquakes in the Arabian peninsula, Afghanistan, Turkey, Pakistan, and northern India, and other misfortunes for South Africa and Europe.
• Red Food Phenomenon: A member of the British Parliament inquired about why Mrs. Mary Were's food turns red overnight, with speculation that a nearby atomic energy center might be involved.
• Giant Footprint in Indian Ocean: The Soviet News Agency TASS reported that a Russian scientific expedition photographed the gigantic footprint of an unknown monster in the Indian Ocean at a depth of 10,000 feet.
• "Giant Madman" in Ontario: A figure described as a "giant madman" is terrorizing farmers near Malton, Ontario, credited with three barn fires that killed 39 cattle. He is known to twist mailboxes and tear down fences, but authorities have been unable to catch him.
• Loch Oich Monster: A monster photographed on Loch Oich was revealed to be a paper-mache creation by a theatre group, intended for an advertisement. It sank after a trial run.
• Object in East St. Louis: A 200-pound object, initially thought to be a meteorite, was found in East St. Louis, Illinois, by a boy. A local expert determined it was not a meteorite but possibly slag from a furnace.

Report on Saucerers Recently and Currently in Confinement

This section details legal troubles faced by individuals in the UFO community:

• Reinholdt Schmidt: Sentenced to one to ten years for grand theft, related to his claims of discovering "free energy crystals" and soliciting investments totaling nearly $50,000.
• Otis T. Carr: Jailed in Oklahoma City for a $5,000 fine related to selling unregistered stock in his OTC Enterprizes, Inc., believed to have collected $50,000. His successors, operating as "The Millenium Agency" under Norman Colton, are reportedly continuing the scheme by taking 50% cash orders for "free energy" machines.
• Wayne Aho: Contactee Wayne Aho is reported to be in good mental health and back on the lecture circuit, promoting "survival homes" and advocating against atomic weapon testing.

Is Richard Ogden in Contact with the Russians?

Richard Ogden, a UFO researcher from Seattle, made claims in a letter to Steve Erdmann about his inside information on "Project Ozma" coming from a "contact" in the Soviet Embassy. Ogden stated that his letters were forwarded to the Soviet Embassy for study and that the embassy could provide information, possibly leading to "visitors." He invoked the Fifth Amendment when asked to prove his claims. The article notes Ogden's "long and sordid history in UFO research" and suggests his contradictory theories are an attempt to create confusion. SAUCER NEWS has had issues with Ogden, including signed and unsigned threats and hoax calls, leading them to turn the matter over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Saucer Briefs

• "Take Me to Your Leader" in Playboy: A detailed but generally anti-saucer article by Gerald Walker appeared in Playboy Magazine.
• Dr. Leon Davidson's Theory: Dr. Davidson, a former contributor, theorizes that the saucer mystery is a psychological-warfare device invented by the CIA. SAUCER NEWS may print his material.
• Gray Barker's Contact Story: Ray Palmer's "Flying Saucers" magazine featured a contact story by Gray Barker about his friend Dominick Lucchesi meeting a space woman aboard a flying saucer.
• Long John Nebel's Book: Long John Nebel has written a book titled "Way Out World."
• "The Challenge of Unidentified Objects": A new book co-authored by Richard Hall (NICAP assistant) and Professor Charles A. Maney.

News Briefs

• Utah Sighting: A saucer sighting by eight observers, including pilot Waldo J. Harris, was widely publicized. Air Force investigators suggested it was a balloon or the planet Venus.
• Doughnut-Shaped UFO: Three pilots spotted a high-altitude, doughnut-shaped UFO between Japan and Midway Island, described as a "large smoke ring."
• Fall River Mills, California Sighting: A man and his wife saw a hovering oval object with flashing lights that released two smaller UFOs. The event was independently reported by others.
• Cincinnati Light: A mysterious light exploded noiselessly over Cincinnati on two separate nights.
• Baltimore Object: A "metallic, circular, spinning, green-white lighted humming object" was seen by residents in Baltimore.
• San Francisco Sighting: Mrs. Mae Harold saw a cylinder-shaped object hovering over San Francisco for thirty minutes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation and analysis of UFO evidence, the distinction between genuine sightings and potential hoaxes, the role of contactees and their claims, and the legal and personal entanglements of individuals within the UFO research community. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking verifiable evidence while acknowledging the possibility of genuine phenomena, but also being skeptical of unsubstantiated claims and potential deception. There is a clear emphasis on debunking and analyzing reports, as seen with the "space pancake" and the critique of NICAP's investigative approach. The publication also highlights the legal troubles of prominent figures in the field, suggesting a pattern of fraud or deception associated with some UFO-related enterprises. The inclusion of "Fortean Items" broadens the scope beyond just UFOs to other unexplained phenomena, indicating a general interest in the anomalous. The overall tone is informative, investigative, and somewhat cautionary regarding the sensational aspects of UFO research.