Saucer News - Whole Number 55 - Vol 11 No 01 - 1964 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: VOLUME 11, NUMBER 1 (Whole Number 55)
Date: MARCH, 1964
Publisher: THE SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, the official publication of the SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY, is dated March 1964. The cover features a photograph of Long John Nebel addressing an audience, with Editor and Publisher James W. Moseley at his side. The magazine combines content with THE SAUCERIAN BULLETIN and includes mailing and office addresses in Fort Lee, N.J., and New York City.

Editorials and Editor's Notes

Editor's Editorial: Editor Admits to Smuggling

In a candid article written for ARGOSY Magazine, Editor James W. Moseley confesses to a past involving illegal treasure hunting in Peru between 1954 and 1961. He explains that while this activity was illegal in Peru, it was not against United States statutes. Moseley clarifies that rumors of him being a government agent were unfounded, and his absences were due to these ventures. He mentions that a 5,000-word article detailing these adventures will appear in a future issue of Argosy, tentatively titled "I Smuggled a Fortune in Inca Treasure out of Peru." He also offers information to serious individuals interested in legally exporting gold from Peru.

Editorial Notes

The "Editorial Notes" section previews the upcoming June issue, which will feature the "true inside story" of the Editor's feud with Gray Barker, former editor of "The Saucerian Bulletin." It will also include a story by an engineer who has seen flying saucers over New York City and the conclusion of John J. Robinson's series on the electromagnetic effects of UFOs. Readers are encouraged to renew their subscriptions. The magazine is seeking newspaper clippings from readers to supplement its press clipping service. The policy regarding articles and advertising is reiterated: articles represent the author's views, and paid ads are accepted from any reputable source. New advertising rates are announced, and the June issue's deadline for ads is April 10th. The Editor and his wife are planning a vacation in Europe in May, which might cause a slight delay in the June issue's release. Subscribers are also reminded of the Confidential Newsletter mailing list, available for one dollar, which provides behind-the-scenes information on saucer research.

Letters to the Editor

This section features correspondence from readers:

• Wayne S. Aho of Toledo, Ohio, shares his extensive military background, including service in World War II, and expresses a desire for world peace and unity.
• Juanita McHargue of Glendale, California, praises the magazine and congratulates the Editor on his family and competent wife.
• Carmella Falzone, Co-Director of The Interplanetary Space Center, requests the inclusion of a notice about their upcoming edition of Laura Mundo's "Flying Saucers and the Father's Plan."
• Mary Chrietzberg of Tifton, Georgia, commends the magazine's cartoons and "Fortean items" but criticizes George Hunt Williamson for allegedly profiting from books and lectures without verifiable degrees. She also expresses shock at a full-page ad for the "Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America," deeming it damaging to the magazine's reputation.
• Mickey Epstein, Conn. NICAP Youth Council Representative, states that the ad for the "Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America" has made it difficult for his friends to consider SAUCER NEWS a serious publication.
• Eva Mahle of Connersville, Indiana, enjoyed articles by Sandy Moseley and Gray Barker but was disappointed that Gray Barker remains a skeptic.
• Herbert S. Taylor of Brooklyn, New York, presents evidence challenging the Air Force's conclusions on two UFO cases: one from Sioux City, Iowa (January 20th, 1951), and another from Long Beach, California (November 5th, 1957). He criticizes the Air Force's evaluation of these cases as aircraft, questioning how astronomical bodies could appear as large, solid objects or how aircraft without visible propulsion could perform violent maneuvers. Taylor also critiques the Editor's previous interview with Project Blue Book personnel, suggesting a missed opportunity to confront them directly.
• E. R. Lee of Minneapolis, Minnesota, hopes that Mars probes will offer more definitive results regarding the possibility of a flying saucer base. He also mentions that a check for $5.00 has been received and that the sender is being reinstated as a member after a membership freeze.
• Mrs. Lelis S. Day, Secretary to Major Keyhoe of NICAP, confirms the reinstatement of the Editor as a NICAP member, noting a previous suspension that the Editor was not notified of. She thanks the Moseleys for a Christmas card.

Successful Series of Saucer Lectures in New York Continues!

This section details the Discussion and Lecture Committee's monthly lecture series:

• August 16th: Gray Barker
• September 20th: Stewart Robb, discussing Nostradamus.
• October 18th: Gordon Evans, speaking on "The Case for Mars." Dr. Leon Davidson was originally scheduled but canceled.
• November 15th: Long John Nebel, discussing his radio program. The event was held at the Hotel Diplomat due to anticipated attendance, though turnout was disappointing.
• December 20th: Ivan Sanderson, discussing UFOs and Fortean events. This lecture was held at 108 West 56th St.

Due to the need for new quarters, the meetings moved to 211 West 57th St., under the auspices of the Philosophical Research Society, starting in January 1964. Future lectures in February and March will also be held there.

• January 17th: John Mittl, a saucer contactee, presented a slide lecture on "The True Nature and Purpose of Flying Saucers," suggesting that saucer trips are astral rather than physical. The Editor expressed skepticism about this premise.
• February 21st: Ranjee Shahani, an expert on ancient Indian literature, will speak on "Space Travel in Ancient India."
• March 13th: Albert K. Bender will discuss "The World of Kazik."

Lectures begin promptly at 8:30 PM, with an admission charge of one dollar per person.

Book Reviews

Reviewed by Richard E. Wallace:

• "The Strange Case of Dr. M. K. Jessup" - edited by Gray Barker (Saucerian Books): The reviewer criticizes Gray Barker for exploiting Dr. M. K. Jessup's death for financial gain, calling the book "mercenary" and in "unusually bad taste."
• "The World of Flying Saucers" - by Donald H. Menzel and Lyle G. Boyd (Doubleday): The reviewer expresses amusement at the book's premise, criticizing Menzel and Boyd for their preconceived notions against UFOs and their attempts to debunk UFO evidence. The reviewer questions Mrs. Boyd's motives, noting her apparent contradiction between an article suggesting Jonathan Swift might be from Mars and her denial of UFO reality in this book.
• "Inside the Saucers 1962" - edited and annotated by Timothy Green Beckley: The reviewer finds the book to be poorly mimeographed and poorly written, lacking the "fantastic revelations" promised. The reviewer recommends Beckley focus on improving his English skills before publishing further.
• "The Shadow of the Unknown" - by the New Jersey Association on Aerial Phenomena: The reviewer states that the book's concept of "reasoned speculation" is not new and expresses disillusionment, finding the book to be another "unsatisfactory endeavor."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, theories about their origin (including the controversial "Earth Theory" previously promoted), and related phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on book reviews, often critical, particularly concerning authors perceived as exploiting the subject for profit or promoting unscientific viewpoints. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, though critical of unsubstantiated claims and perceived exploitation within the UFO community. The magazine also engages with other organizations in the field, such as NICAP, maintaining a policy of independent commentary. The recurring theme of lectures and discussions highlights the active community surrounding saucer research in the New York area.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated July 19th, 1937, features a cover headline "SPACE SHIPS OVER TIMES SQUARE" and includes articles by Ed Sparks, John J. Robinson, Robert Gelfand, and Howard Menger. The magazine explores UFO sightings, their physical and electromagnetic effects, and offers speculative interpretations.

Space Ships Over Times Square by Ed Sparks

Ed Sparks, a pseudonym for an engineer, recounts a personal sighting of multiple UFOs over Times Square on Sunday, July 18th, 1937. He describes seeing dual headlights of what appeared to be a low-flying plane, emitting an intense beam of light. The craft made an unconventional thirty-degree turn and had wings that tapered in a circular form to the tail, with a peculiar rudder design. Later, another craft with dual red beams appeared, followed by a fleet of UFOs, including a large pantella-shaped dirigible with square windows and no visible motors or noise. These craft disappeared behind buildings. Sparks also observed another large, dirigible-shaped object with square windows and internal flashing lights, estimating its size to be one mile in length. He notes that these craft cast no shadows due to the overcast skies. The incident was accompanied by a roar from the area, and some witnesses reported a brief period of darkness, attributed by some to a power switch being pulled.

Sparks questions why UFO sightings are often reported from remote areas and not heavily populated cities like New York. He mentions that a New York Daily News story from July 19th, 1937, about tremors on Long Island, might be related to the events, suggesting it was not an earthquake. He laments that the event, involving at least 36 craft, went unrecorded in newspapers.

The Electromagnetic Effects of Flying Saucers (Part Two) by John J. Robinson

This article, the second part of a series, details various electromagnetic effects attributed to flying saucers. A jet plane pilot reported radar jamming during a UFO sighting. In Ararangua, Brazil, a pilot reported that the plane's ADFs, generator, and radio equipment were burned out during a saucer sighting. The article suggests saucers can nullify magnetic force, leading to town blackouts. Other reported effects include pulsating house lights, dead phone and railroad systems, and disrupted telegraph services. Compasses waver, watches become magnetized, and metal signs are affected. Car speedometers have also shown erratic readings, and vehicles have stalled. The article references NICAP's "UFO Investigator" and a U.S. Project Magnet program using magnetometers to detect magnetic flux variations. It highlights recent findings of peculiar magnetic forces emanating from above the Key West-Caribbean area, linking it to the disappearance of five torpedo bombers and a rescue plane in 1945, as well as the disappearance of two British planes, "Star Tiger" and another of the same make, in 1948 and 1949.

The article questions how these magnetic variations penetrate the Earth's magnetosphere and Van Allen belts. It also discusses physical effects on people, including sensations of heat, numbness, electric shocks, paralysis, and radiation burns. Examples include a bus, truck, and car stalled near Lima, Peru, in 1958, and a car in Baillolet, France, in 1954, where occupants experienced shock and paralysis. A motorist in Schermeck, France, reported paralysis and heat.

The Far-Off Worlds by Robert Gelfand

Robert Gelfand presents a metaphysical interpretation of UFOs and space travel. He suggests that a call has gone out from the "Far-Off Worlds" and that humanity's materialistic attitude hinders progress in space. Gelfand argues that spacecraft are not solely material but can be subtle, and that true progress requires spiritual understanding rather than a focus on phenomena. He outlines requirements for reaching the Far-Off Worlds: being "aflame by spirit," possessing sensitiveness to all life, compassion, and daring, along with knowledge of spiritual life. He criticizes the focus on physical condition, as seen in astronauts, and emphasizes the need to be boundless in striving for infinite space. Gelfand posits that Mankind must undergo a state of transition and transmutation to reach these distant worlds, shedding petty ambitions and prejudices. He speaks of a universal brotherhood to which Man must apply, comprising perfected individuals from various planets, who are helping to guide humanity. He urges readers to realize the great beauty of infinity and not to interpret the Far-Off Worlds merely as distant locations.

The X-4 Electro-Craft by Howard Menger

Howard Menger proposes a fundraising idea to complete his X-4 Electro-Craft, an experimental electric craft he is building. He explains that the 'X' stands for experimental and '4' for the fourth craft. The craft operates on electricity, obtaining and using electrons in a unique way to achieve vertical lift and high-speed horizontal flight. The current model is approximately 18 feet in diameter, with potential for expansion. Menger is seeking funds to complete it for a convention. He offers to sell plans for a four-foot replica of the X-3 (a previous model flown in 1961) for $25.00, which includes instructions and a parts list. The first three individuals to build and fly the replica will receive a $100 savings bond and an offer to work on the larger 18-foot model. This initiative aims to raise funds for the larger craft, sponsor an East Coast space convention, and potentially form a company to manufacture the craft for government or civilian contracts.

Recent News

This section compiles several recent UFO sightings and related phenomena:

• Electromagnetic Saucer in Nevada: On November 14th, a resident of Carson City, Nevada, reported seeing a large, disc-shaped object with an "odd green color with a golden cast" and a "vibratory hum." A shaft of light from the UFO illuminated a nearby hill, and the radio station being listened to went off the air during the sighting.
• Recent Landing in Argentina: A truck driver, Eugenio Douglas, reported being approached by three tall beings from a luminous object. He drove into a ditch and was pursued, experiencing temporary blindness from a gas shot by the creatures. Doctors could not identify the cause of the burns.
• Buenos Aires Sighting: Hundreds of residents in Mar del Plata witnessed a cigar-shaped object with intermittent white and bluish lights hovering for 15 minutes. It moved at high speed towards the north.
• Close Sighting in Idaho: Four people in Meridian, Idaho, reported seeing a UFO at close range on October 24th. The object was described as round, about 35 feet in diameter, with a red light that flashed on and off, and emitted a deep humming noise. It hovered about eight feet above a willow tree.

Fortean Items

This section includes miscellaneous unusual reports:

• Moon Disturbances: Unusual disturbances on the Moon, including a ruby-red eruption spotted by Air Force mappers, were reported and filmed.
• Mars Observations: Peculiar observations on Mars led to speculation about atomic explosions, with bright flashes followed by mushroom-shaped clouds.
• Mystery of the Disappearing Lawn: A ten-foot-wide and fifty-foot-deep hole appeared in a lawn in Ironia, N.J., which reappeared after being filled following a rainstorm, possibly related to abandoned mines.
• Frog Migration: Thousands of small frogs caused the temporary closing of a highway in California.
• Blindfolded Driving Test: A woman in Jamaica, Long Island, hit a pedestrian during a blindfolded driving demonstration.
• Monster Sighting: A 25-foot-long monster was reported in South Africa.
• Town Overload: Surbiton, England, experienced an overload of electricity, causing fuses to flash, light bulbs to pop, and appliances to malfunction, with voltage jumping from 240 to 280.
• Ballpoint Pen Saves Life: A ballpoint pen deflected a bullet aimed at a man's heart.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, their physical and electromagnetic manifestations, and attempts to explain these phenomena through scientific, historical, and spiritual lenses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily endorsing any single explanation, while also highlighting the lack of official recognition for significant events. The magazine encourages research and investigation into these mysteries.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, published quarterly in Fort Lee, New Jersey, by the Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society (S.A.U.C.E.R.S.), is entering its 11th year of publication. The magazine is described as the second oldest saucer organization in the world, following APRO. The issue date is not explicitly stated, but the content refers to events in October and November of unspecified years, likely in the early to mid-1960s, given the mention of President John F. Kennedy's death and other dated events.

Contents and Articles

Unexplained Phenomena and Sightings

The issue features several reports of unusual occurrences. One prominent story details a "CLOSE SAUCER SIGHTING IN MICHIGAN" where two deputy sheriffs in Port Huron observed a UFO at 5 a.m. on November 12th. They described a "flickering light" that seemed to have a "big divided window" and hovered at a low altitude before out-distancing their patrol car during a chase. The UFO reportedly flashed white and red lights, possibly as an attempt at communication.

Another report from Farmborough, England, describes a "water spirit" haunting a country house, causing water to pour from walls and ceilings. Local authorities and parapsychologists were unable to explain the phenomenon.

A woman in Flint, Michigan, is featured for her ability to distinguish colors using only her hands while blindfolded, with experiments being conducted to aid the blind. A similar ability is mentioned for a young woman in Russia.

In October, 39 whales washed ashore and died at Wreck Bay, Australia. An official from a local university explained this as "mass suicides" of this whale breed, occurring every two or three years, with the cause remaining a mystery.

A "weird story" from April (1963) concerns the discovery of a three-foot-long body resembling a devil in Charlotte, North Carolina. The creature had claw-like nails, tusk-like teeth, cloven hooves, and horns. There is a dispute over whether it was a real creature or a fake.

On October 13th, a farm in upper New York State owned by Hugo Wiken experienced a large amount of ice falling from the sky, demolishing a barn. The ice fell at high speed, and there were no airplanes overhead.

News Briefs and Miscellaneous Reports

Under "NEWS BRIEFS," several other incidents are mentioned. A photograph sent from Seattle, Washington, supposedly taken on June 12th, 1960, shows a disc-shaped object hovering at low altitude. On the night of November 30th (1963), a "mysterious flaming object" was seen near Knoxville, Tennessee, by two sheriff's deputies and a U.S. Air Force B-52 crew. A "mysterious 'circular hole' or crater" discovered near La Grande, Oregon, was also the site of UFO sightings, with a glowing object seen falling nearby. A UFO was also reported over Sunnyvale, California, on September 25th.

Predictions and Notable Figures

The issue notes that Mrs. Jeanne Dixon accurately predicted the death of President John F. Kennedy, along with other notable predictions concerning famous people like Roosevelt and Eisenhower.

There is a mention of the belief that humans can be preserved by deep freezing at the time of death and revived later, with a cost of about $8,800 per body.

Radio Appearances and Publications

The editor of SAUCER NEWS made five tapes for the "coffee break" portion of the Long John radio show in October, discussing topics previously published in the magazine. The editor also appeared live on the Long John Show multiple times, participating in panels on prejudice, psychology, psychiatry, religion, and medicine. The magazine also "starred" on a five-hour show devoted to treasure hunting in Peru.

Additionally, the editor was on taped shows for Bob Zanotti's "Coffee Clatch" show on WFMU, discussing topics like Deros, flying saucers, and Fortean events. John J. Robinson and Eugene Steinberg also appeared on these shows.

In Memoriam and Inventions

The SAUCER NEWS Staff mourned the death of John M. Cage, a 77-year-old inventor from Montclair, New Jersey. Mr. Cage held patents dating back to 1910, including inventions for a helicopter and a submarine. He also had plans for an earth-made flying saucer and a machine to separate gold from seawater.

Legal and Controversial Figures

Dr. Frank E. Stranges, author of "Flying Saucerama," was convicted in California of operating a "mail order diploma mill" and issuing doctor of divinity degrees for $25 each. He was fined $200 and spent a night in jail, subsequently requesting $2,000 in donations.

Other Features

The issue includes a report on a photograph taken in a Pentacostal church in Nassau, Bahama Islands, where some visitors claim to see a face resembling Jesus Christ, though attempts to photograph it have failed.

An incident from July 1947 is recounted where eight balloons were sent up by the New York Daily News building to prove people would report anything as a flying saucer. One balloon landed in the yard of Gladys Fusaro, a UFO enthusiast and member of the SAUCER NEWS Staff.

A slide lecture by contactee Buck Nelson is mentioned, with reports of a blurred picture of a spaceman looking identical to Buck Nelson, and a photo of his famous "space dog" being identical to a small lap dog.

Jim Wales claims to have received calls from an organization called "The Better Book League" offering him money to remove Laura Mundo's book "Flying Saucers and the Father's Plan" from the market.

Subscriptions and Back Issues

SAUCER NEWS begins its 11th year of publication. The magazine offers a special offer of $7.50 for all 36 issues still in print, saving about $6.00. Back issues are available at 35¢ each or 3 for $1.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SAUCER NEWS revolve around UFO sightings, unexplained phenomena, and paranormal events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting of such occurrences, often presenting them as genuine mysteries or potential evidence of unknown phenomena. The magazine actively engages with its audience through radio appearances and by publishing reader-submitted reports. There is a clear interest in debunking hoaxes while also exploring genuine enigmas, as seen in the report about the New York Daily News balloons and the discussion of Dr. Stranges' conviction. The publication seems to position itself as a source for those interested in the unusual and unexplained, encouraging subscriptions and the purchase of back issues to access its extensive archives.