Saucer News - Whole Number 50 - Vol 09 No 04 - 1962 12

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: VOLUME 9, NUMBER 4 (Whole Number 50)
Date: DECEMBER 1962
Publisher: Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated December 1962, leads with a photograph of Editor and Publisher James W. Moseley and his new wife, Sandra Stevens Moseley, who was married on September 15th, 1962. The magazine's publication is slightly delayed due to their honeymoon in Mexico. The cover also highlights a "BIG SOUTH AMERICAN SAUCER "FLAP"!" report. The publication is described as the "OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY."

Editorials

The editorial section addresses significant staff changes. John J. Robinson has been promoted to Assistant Editor, replacing Y. N. ibn A'haron, who has moved to Lima, Peru. Robinson and A'haron had previously co-edited a defunct zine called "The Journal of Correlative Philosophy." The editorials also launch a strong criticism against Gray Barker and his publication, "Saucerian Bulletin." The magazine accuses Barker of publishing distorted "exposes," including one purportedly written by Moseley's wife, with incorrect details about her maiden name and marriage date. Barker is also depicted negatively in a photograph, accused of spreading misinformation and fabricating claims of persecution.

Letters to the Editor

The "Letters to the Editor" section features a diverse range of opinions and critiques. Major Robert Hart of the USAF criticizes NICAP's publication, "The UFO Investigator," for misrepresenting facts and lifting quotes out of context, particularly regarding an Air Force news release. Major William T. Coleman, Jr., also of the USAF, responds to NICAP's claims, stating that the Air Force does recognize unidentified flying objects and has organizations to investigate them, refuting NICAP's assertion that the Air Force denies their existence. Robert J. Durant expresses skepticism about Congressional hearings on UFOs, suggesting they are often poorly prepared and that SAUCER NEWS's editorial policy may be contributing to confusion. Kenneth Wallin praises the magazine's September issue and requests that full mailing addresses be published for better reader exchange. William R. Stone, Sr., commends the magazine's balanced approach and its article on Wright-Patterson Field. Steve Erdmann accuses Moseley of being a "business man" sensationalizing UFOs for profit and aligning with a "Silence Group" to spread debunking tactics. Thomas Roark questions some interpretations in an article about Wright-Patterson Field, particularly the "handwriting on the wall" analogy and a potential connection between Syrian writing and current events. Major Donald Keyhoe of NICAP accuses SAUCER NEWS of malicious attacks and misinformation regarding NICAP's operations, denying claims about their financial status and problems. He criticizes the review of the Maney-Hall book and labels Moseley an "Air Force apologist." Robert J. Gribble refutes claims made by Major Keyhoe's "UFO Investigator" regarding the Washington State NICAP Subcommittee, clarifying his role and offering a reward for proof of Keyhoe's allegations. Carlos Mentira praises the magazine's reporting, particularly the Wright-Patterson visit, and its opposition to NICAP's "anti-Air-Force stand." Brinsley Le Poer Trench thanks the magazine for publishing his "Open Letter of Reply" and mentions his upcoming book. Coral E. Lorenzen of APRO clarifies her interpretation of her book, stating she does not conclude UFOs are hostile and that future human-space entity relations depend on man himself. Albert K. Bender expresses his pleasure with the magazine and his past interactions with Moseley. Richard Ogden makes serious accusations, claiming Moseley is part of a "Silence Group" influenced by "Zionist bosses" and paid by the Air Force to spread propaganda and ridicule, citing Moseley's admission to an Air Force Intelligence base as evidence.

Feature Article

"A New Inquiry into the Flying Saucer Mystery (Part One)" by Thomas M. Comella begins this issue. Comella, a returning UFO researcher, notes that sixteen years after the initial wave of sightings, the phenomenon continues with lights, objects, and landings reported globally. He observes that while many theories exist, including those from conservatives who believe in intelligently controlled, advanced machines, and radicals who claim direct contact, there is a lack of precise, verifiable evidence to support any single theory. Comella argues that belief often prevails over facts, and that the phenomena are not necessarily indicative of "intelligence." He points out that physical evidence like radar sightings and photographs is often inconclusive. The article suggests that the Air Force's role might be overemphasized and that their "policy changes" reflect a lack of proof. Comella posits that the core of the saucer problem is an external one that requires re-evaluation, and that researchers are participants in the saga rather than mere observers. He highlights the paradox of widespread belief with a complete lack of proof and urges a distinction between knowing and believing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SAUCER NEWS demonstrates a clear editorial stance against organizations like NICAP and individuals like Gray Barker, whom it accuses of misinformation and bias. The magazine appears to favor a more cautious, perhaps even skeptical, approach to UFO claims, particularly those involving direct contact or alleging government cover-ups, while simultaneously criticizing what it perceives as attempts to debunk or dismiss the phenomena without proper investigation. There is a recurring theme of questioning the validity of evidence and the motivations of researchers and organizations within the UFO community. The magazine positions itself as a platform for diverse opinions but often interjects its own critical commentary, particularly in the editorials and through the selection of letters that support its viewpoints. The publication also seems to align itself with the Air Force's perspective on UFOs, as evidenced by praise for its reporting on the Wright-Patterson visit and criticism of anti-Air-Force sentiments.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated page 11, focuses heavily on a widespread "flap" of UFO sightings in South America, particularly in Argentina, Peru, Chile, and Uruguay. The magazine presents a collection of recent news stories, mostly translated from South American newspapers, detailing various encounters and observations.

Editorial Stance

The editorial, appearing on page 11, suggests that both conservatives and radicals are guilty of rationalizations regarding UFO research. It posits that while radicals may lack intellectual differentiation, many conservatives lack intellectual security, making them unable to pursue ideas outside scientific speculation. The piece concludes that flying saucer research is at a crossroads of "awareness" rather than accomplishment or failure, and that the mystery will persist.

Recent News Stories

Big Saucer "Flap" in South America

This section highlights a significant increase in saucer sightings across South America since July, noting that the U.S. press has largely ignored this phenomenon. A report from a Vermont newspaper details an incident in Cordoba, Argentina, where two astronomy students took fifteen photos of a UFO that hovered for ten minutes, leaving a dark red trail. The object was estimated to be 1,700 feet above them.

Incident near Parana, Argentina

On July 26th, a 17-year-old youth named Ricardo Mieres encountered a strange, six-foot-tall creature with a melon-shaped head and three eyes on a lonely road. His motorcycle inexplicably moved towards the creature, which then grabbed his scarf and walked away in a robot-like manner, leaving deep tracks.

Incident near Las Armas and Piran, Argentina

A truck driver named Pedro Attili experienced his motor suddenly dying and then restarting. He then saw a luminous, cigar-shaped object about 300 yards away with orange, green, and purple lights. The object rose at high speed and disappeared.

Santiago, Chile Sighting

In the early morning hours of August 13th, a large group of people in Santiago, Chile, witnessed about twenty luminous objects flying southward at great speed in single file, apparently headed toward Argentina.

Santa Rosa, Argentina Sighting

On August 16th, 25 to 30 people in Santa Rosa, Argentina, saw three or four UFOs depart from a "mother ship" that remained visible low in the sky.

Incident near Parana, Argentina (Dr. Gazcue)

A medical doctor named Gazcue and his wife encountered an object with flying saucer characteristics, surrounded by a luminous halo. They also saw two strange persons, over six feet tall with light hair and huge eyes, carrying luminous objects on their foreheads, who made signals for the car to halt. Dr. Gazcue, believing them to be extraterrestrial beings, sped away, causing his wife to have a nervous attack.

Dolores, Argentina Sighting

Around August 28th, a brightly-lit UFO was photographed on the ground near Dolores, Argentina. Witnesses reported the saucer was about 10 yards long and 5 yards high, and that "human-like figures were moving about inside the machine."

San Juan, Argentina Sighting

On September 3rd, a farmer named Juan Sosa saw a flying saucer take off from a field, leaving a strong bluish light and a burned circular mark on the ground three yards in diameter. Two Naval officials also reported seeing a similar object.

Los Matacos, Argentina Sighting

On October 4th, a "luminous point" descended near Los Matacos, Argentina, emitting a strong red light. One witness, Senor Frutos, believed he saw a strange creature with many arms inside the object, which was about 20 feet from the ground.

Formosa, Argentina Sighting

During the evening of October 14th, a large group of people saw an object in the sky double the apparent size of the moon, giving off a bright light. The UFO made various maneuvers and seemed to land briefly.

Tucuman, Argentina Sighting (Pier Livio Quaia)

On November 5th, an Italian truck driver named Pier Livio Quaia was forced to stop by a UFO hovering over the highway, beaming a powerful light into his truck. The object, shaped like an egg (12 yards long, 4 yards high) with green and red lights, rose slowly. Quaia later encountered two brothers, and they observed the UFO making low passes and strange movements for over an hour.

Tucuman, Argentina Sighting (Two Youths)

On November 8th, two youths near Tucuman saw a flying saucer land on a small hill. The UFO ascended after a few seconds, during which time the heat or light was so intense that their skin burned. Their motorcycle's oil dried up, and its electric circuit burned out.

Peru Sightings

Unusually good sightings were also reported in September in Tarma, Arequipa, Chochope (near Lambayeque), and other parts of Peru.

Saucer Briefs

This section provides various brief news items and updates:

• Kenneth Arnold Correction: SAUCER NEWS apologizes for misstating that Kenneth Arnold lost the Idaho Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor; he actually won it.
• Admiral Hillenkoetter Resignation: Admiral R. H. Hillenkoetter, former head of the CIA, has resigned from the NICAP Board of Governors.
• Giant Rock Convention: The Giant Rock saucer convention was held on October 27th and 28th, but no detailed reports are available.
• Voodoo Doll: A voodoo doll, purportedly from George Adamski, was received, but the sender is suspected to be a hoaxer.
• Gloria Lee Byrd's Death: Gloria Lee Byrd, an author of saucer contactee books, died around December 1st after fasting for at least a month "on instructions from the Space People."
• Dr. Frank Stranges' Movie: Dr. Frank Stranges is having a movie made from his book "Flying Saucerama," tentatively titled "The Earth May Die Tomorrow," with a $150,000 to $200,000 budget.
• Norman Colton and Otis T. Carr: Norman Colton, partner of Otis T. Carr, is reportedly working on inventions and lobbying the government. Carr continues his "free energy" work despite being out of jail and short of funds.

Saucer "Flap" in Northern New Jersey

An important "flap" occurred in mid-September in northern New Jersey. On September 15th, three boys reported seeing a strange oval-shaped craft set down in the Oradell Reservoir. A fisherman heard a splash at the same time. Large banana-shaped tracks were reported in Emerson, where witnesses claimed a UFO had landed. The Air Force sent a representative, and police barricaded the area.

On September 16th, two Emerson youths reported seeing a similar object dip behind pine trees bordering the reservoir, followed by a noise like a car door slamming. It was learned the object appeared to be domed and had two portholes. Parents of witnesses were told by police to refrain from speaking about the matter due to a government secrecy policy.

On September 18th, over one hundred people gathered at the Oradell Reservoir hoping to see the UFO return, but saw nothing. Rumors circulated that Oradell police had shot a 14-foot-tall man. In neighboring communities, nine witnesses, including patrolmen, sighted strange aerial objects, one of which was seen to land.

On September 20th, four Emerson boys spotted a UFO near the reservoir. Three jet fighters approached the UFO and went under it. As the jets attempted another pass, the saucer rose and disappeared, described as having the appearance of burning magnesium.

On September 21st, two formations of six large bright white objects were seen in Hackensack and East Patterson.

A letter from Bergenfield boys claimed they constructed and flew a craft using a helium balloon and radio waves, offered as an explanation for the sightings, but witnesses expressed doubt.

Busy Schedule of Activities by SAUCER NEWS Staff

This section lists the editor's and staff's meetings and appearances from August through December, including numerous repeats of appearances on "The Long John Show" and other events related to UFO research and discussions.

News Briefs

• Wisconsin Sightings: Twenty-four UFOs were spotted moving in single file across the night sky by police officers in Wisconsin on September 4th. The objects resembled shooting stars but were spaced out and did not burn up. Authorities in three places within an 80-mile area reported similar sightings.
• General MacArthur's Statement: A quote from General Douglas MacArthur's farewell address at West Point suggests a belief in "ultimate conflicts between a united human race and the sinister forces of some other planetary galaxy."
• Delta, Colorado "Flap": A brief "flap" occurred around Delta, Colorado, in late October, with strange objects appearing nightly over Grand Mesa and moving eastward.
• Fort Collins Sighting: An unidentified man near Fort Collins reported seeing a gray, disc-shaped object come down to earth in daylight, but no details were given.
• Rhodes University Signals: George Gruber, a physics lecturer at Rhodes University in South Africa, reported receiving radio signals from Jupiter on two wavelengths since July 24th, described as sounding like waves breaking on a pebbly beach with no sign of intelligence.
• Chicago Sighting: Mr. and Mrs. Albert Bacigalupo of Chicago saw a huge saucer, lit from within with red lights, flying slowly just above the trees on September 2nd.
• West Virginia Sighting: Numerous people near Richwood, West Virginia, saw a weird triangle-shaped UFO on September 26th. A private pilot reported his plane almost collided with the object, described as a triangle about 12 feet tall, looking like aluminum tubing, with a light in each corner.
• Lincoln, Wisconsin Sighting: On July 29th, a brightly-lit object was seen on and near the ground by many people in Lincoln, Wisconsin. It seemed to have antennas and made unusual motions.
• Jacksonville, Florida Sightings: On October 4th, strange lights accompanied by power failures were reported. Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Raker saw a round ball of fire moving through a field behind their house. Another woman reported a formless glow moving through her house.
• Liberal, Kansas Airport: On August 2nd, brilliantly-colored flying objects lit up the runways of the airport at Liberal, Kansas, and were seen by many people. Similar reports were made in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Pueblo, Colorado; Garden City, Kansas; and Guymon, Oklahoma.
• Ogallala, Nebraska Sighting: Around October 18th, two youths reported seeing a lighted UFO fall from the sky and follow their car. The object, described as "half or 3/4 of a block long and about a street's width wide," was plain white light, dim around the edges, and flat on the ground, with no apparent height.
• Pasco, Washington Sighting: On August 6th, Ed Olson reported seeing a "mother ship" give birth to a "baby" object that then floated away.

Fortean Items

This section covers various unusual phenomena:

• Haunted House Poltergeists: A skeptical Miami newspaper reporter became convinced of poltergeists after witnessing a vase, cup, and tobacco can fly about in a haunted house.
• Lake Erie "Slime" Creatures: People living on the shores of Lake Erie are worried about a plague of slimy sponge-like things, some up to five feet across, that have begun living in the lake.
• Bodika "Molehills": In the Russian village of Bodika, "molehills" are growing into "mountains" due to underground rumbling.
• Tibetan Lama and Snowman: A Tibetan Lama claims one of his priests spent time meditating with an eight-foot-tall speechless abominable snowman, who reportedly helped him.
• Watertown, N.Y. Object: A six-pound piece of steel hurtled out of the sky in Watertown, N.Y., narrowly missing two shoppers, and embedded itself in a parking lot surface, shining with a "bright silvery sheen."
• Haunted Palace Guard: The Royal Air Force of Scotland appointed a special guard for a cleaning woman in a haunted palace who felt a hand on her shoulder.
• Ice Block in England: A block of ice fell through the roof of a home in Hornsey, England, making a hole about a foot square. The Air Ministry assumed it fell from an aircraft.
• Lake Manitoba Sea Monster: A Canadian professor led a team of skin divers in a search for a legendary sea monster sighted in Lake Manitoba, with fishermen reporting a snake-like beast.
• Ant Communication: Helen Forrest, a Rutgers University zoologist, has recordings proving that ants communicate using sounds made by snapping leg joints, scraping feet, and rapping jaws.

Page 19 - Nashville, Tennessee Sighting

A boy in Nashville, Tennessee, was awakened by a loud noise and an odor of overheated electric wires. He found a circle 15 feet in diameter on his lawn, made of a dark substance like oil. Army officers and doctors were unable to determine its cause. A similar circle appeared overnight in Paducah, Kentucky.

Page 19 - Salt Lake City, Utah Material Fall

Great globs of white, sticky material fell from the sky in Salt Lake City, Utah, in broad daylight. Fifty employees of an electric power company saw the material, with some pieces 60 to 70 feet long, resembling a tattered parachute. The substance was sticky and disintegrated when stretched.

Page 19 - Missing Dirigible Crew

Two veterans in the operation of dirigibles were listed as missing by the Navy after their patrol blimp disappeared near San Francisco. Two life belts were missing, but parachutes and a rubber life raft were found.

Page 19 - Allen, Oklahoma Lights

Mysterious lights, possibly ball lightning or UFOs, were seen almost nightly during June and early July in a field near Allen, Oklahoma. These lights, described as "balls of colored fire," were observed by carloads of teenagers and local newspaper reporters.

Page 19 - Singapore Giant Footprints

A report from Singapore states that hundreds of villagers are trekking to see two giant footprints, 39 inches long and 13 inches wide, found embedded in clay, made in one giant 13-foot stride.

Page 19 - Taipei, Formosa "Comic Relief"

Eight men in Taipei, Formosa, consulted a Buddhist priest to escape a plague, and were advised to walk on burning coals, which resulted in them being badly burned. The priest was arrested.

Page 20 - Back Issues and Newsletter

This section lists available back issues of SAUCER NEWS and offers a special newsletter mailing list for subscribers who want "inside" information on baffling events in saucer research.

Page 20 - "The Great 'U.F.O.' National Convention" Record

An advertisement promotes a "Great 'U.F.O.' National Convention" record featuring Dr. Frank E. Stranges, available for purchase.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread nature of UFO sightings, particularly the "flap" in South America, the variety of reported UFO shapes and behaviors, close encounters with alleged extraterrestrial beings, and the collection of physical evidence. The magazine also touches upon other unusual phenomena, including poltergeists, strange creatures, and unexplained atmospheric events, suggesting a broad interest in the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, acknowledging the persistent mystery and the need for greater "awareness" in research, while also being critical of overly simplistic rationalizations from both radical and conservative viewpoints.