Saucer News - Whole Number 62 - Vol 12 No 04 - 1965 12

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: VOLUME 12, NUMBER 4 (Whole Number 62)
Date: DECEMBER, 1965
Publisher: THE SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Editor: JAMES W. MOSELEY

This issue of SAUCER NEWS highlights a significant "world-wide saucer sighting flap" that was continuing in late 1965. The cover features a photograph of a UFO taken in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, by news photographer Jose Palma on July 15th. The magazine reports that dozens of other saucer reports came in during July and August from various countries in South America, including Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, Honduras, Ecuador, Paraguay, Brazil, Venezuela, and Chile, as well as scattered parts of Argentina. The editorial notes the "amazing similarity" of widely-scattered sightings and landings, suggesting a common underlying reality.

Editorial Notes

The "Editorial Notes" section emphasizes the immense scale of the current saucer flap, noting that many excellent sightings had to be omitted due to space constraints, even with an expanded "Recent News" section. The March 1966 issue was postponed to accommodate the volume of material. The editor calls attention to the similarity of sightings across different countries, occurring almost simultaneously, implying independent observation of the same phenomena. The publication thanks its friends and subscribers for sending clippings and material, urging them to send zip codes for third-class mail. It also welcomes comments on the magazine's quality. The notes announce the appointment of Henning Von Hippel as South American Editor, recognizing his efforts in gathering Spanish-language reports that often do not appear in U.S. newspapers. The editor also informs readers not to request clippings, as material is rewritten and original clippings are often passed on. Finally, it promotes "OUR NEWSLETTER #25," described as containing "too hot to handle" items, available for one dollar to subscribers.

Letters to the Editor

The "Letters to the Editor" section features correspondence from several individuals:

• Paul M. Popple, Assistant to the President, thanks the editor for a letter and a copy of SAUCER NEWS, enclosing a card bearing the President's signature.
• Rick R. Hilberg, Editor of "UFO Magazine," shares an experience with local police who questioned him about his involvement in saucer research and the American UFO Committee. He stresses that he is not trying to create a "Bender case" and has no intention of leaving saucer investigation.
• Vincent H. Gaddis, author of "Invisible Horizons," expresses appreciation for a review of his book and announces he is writing a second book focusing more directly on UFOs and the "atmospheric sea."
• W. Raymond Drake writes about his respect for "ibn Aharon" and Brinsley le Poer Trench, praising their research and intuition regarding Extraterrestrialism. He suggests that the time may be ripe for the revelation of Extraterrestrialism, with multiple individuals independently arriving at similar conclusions.
• Mrs. G. Grannis reports a sighting on July 1st at 11:50 p.m. in Montvale, N.J., of two blinking lights behind pine trees that moved slowly and appeared to be about 25 feet across. She notes the lights were about three inches in diameter and three to four feet apart, and did not illuminate the surroundings. The editor notes this is one of many unpublished sightings received.
• John Prytz, Director of the Oyster Bay UFO Investigative Committee, expresses frustration with the common ufologist tendency to blame the U.S. Air Force and government for confusion. He finds more confusion within private groups and individuals, including "hoaxters and publicity seekers." He states he is "more in the dark about UFOs now than I was when I began my study" and is joining the U.S. Air Force as the one organization consistent in its claims.

Recent News

This section includes reports from various sources:

• Sara B. Hunt from the Pentagon's Civil Branch reports that James Peek's UFO film, submitted to the Air Force for evaluation, was found to depict defects in the film. The film has been returned to Mr. Peek. She also confirms a radio show appearance by the editor on WMAL.
• Rev. Guy J. Cyr responds to an article about life on Mars, disagreeing with the notion that a lack of atmosphere precludes life. He points to life in Earth's oceans and suggests that life forms can develop specialized characteristics to survive extreme conditions, potentially using chemistries different from Earth's.

Prize-Winning Essays Concerning the Possibility of Life on Mars

This section presents the three winning essays from a contest sponsored by the Randi Show:

• First Prize - Gary Boross (Nanuet, New York): Boross argues that the Mariner IV probe's findings do not preclude life on Mars. He believes life is likely to exist on multiple celestial bodies and that extraterrestrial life may not resemble familiar species. He suggests that expecting life to match Earth's conditions is conceited and that a "Earth Probe" of similar resolution might miss life on Earth.
• Second Prize - A. Bruce Johnson (Interlaken, N.J.): Johnson questions why life on Mars is dismissed. He argues that Earth would appear lifeless from a similar distance and that dormant terrestrial life forms can survive simulated Mars environments. He proposes that life could develop specialized characteristics and that alternative chemistries, such as silicon-based compounds, might support life.
• Third Prize - George R. Slater (Philadelphia, Pa.): Slater believes life can exist on other planets, stating that humans often assume life requires conditions identical to Earth's. He notes that many Earth animals and people adapt to extreme temperatures and suggests that galaxies are not solely for human life.

Book Review

• "THE QUEST: A Report on Extraterrestrial Life" by Tom Allen (Chilton; $4.95) - Reviewed by Richard E. Wallace: Wallace finds the book an entertaining and informative compilation on the search for intelligent life. However, he notes with dismay that the book offers no reference to UFOs, speculating this might be to gain acceptance from the scientific community or due to skepticism. He finds some of the material "dubious" and "hardly less fantastic" than the idea of saucers being extraterrestrial. The book is praised for its clear writing style.

Feature Articles

• "SPEAKING OF SAUCERS: LO, THAT POOR SAM MOSKOWITZ" - by Richard E. Wallace: Wallace criticizes an article by Sam Moskowitz in "Amazing Stories" that he deems a "disservice" to Charles Fort and his followers. Wallace argues that Moskowitz misunderstands Fort's work, presenting it as serious when it was often tongue-in-cheek. He also criticizes Moskowitz's dismissal of the Fortean Society as a "colossal joke" that later became infiltrated by "true believers." Wallace contends that Moskowitz exhibits a "vitriolic hatred" of flying saucers and Shaverism, possibly due to economic fears that a revelation of truth could destroy the science fiction market. He concludes by pitying Moskowitz for shielding himself from "unacceptable and unpleasant thoughts."

• "ON OBSERVING FOR THE LAYMAN" - by James Randi: Randi provides a guide for laymen to identify celestial objects, particularly satellites, to avoid misidentifying them as UFOs. He explains the astronomical system of "magnitude," where higher numbers indicate dimmer objects, and provides examples like Polaris, Vega, Jupiter, Venus, the Sun, and the Full Moon. He advises comparing unknown objects to known stars or planets and consulting the New York Times for satellite listings. He mentions a recent incident in South Amboy, N.J., where a reported UFO sighting turned out to be the ECHO II satellite.

• "MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING" - by Brinsley le Poer Trench: Trench responds to "The Good Rabbi ibn Aharon," defending his own work and ideas. He addresses Aharon's criticisms, suggesting that Aharon is upset by Trench's reference to his father and by their disagreement over "The Sky People." Trench defends the unorthodox nature of ideas and notes that SAUCER NEWS (formerly "Nexus") has changed its stance on flying saucers from off-planet to potentially Earth-made. He criticizes Aharon's self-proclaimed authority and his tendency to label those who agree with him as "thieves and plagiarists" and those who disagree as "idiots." Trench concludes by expressing his continued appreciation for unorthodox ideas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently covers UFO sightings, particularly focusing on significant "flaps" or periods of increased activity, such as the one reported in South America. There is a strong interest in the possibility of extraterrestrial life, as evidenced by the prize-winning essays on life on Mars. The publication also engages with the history and figures of ufology, such as Charles Fort, and critically reviews books and articles within the field. The editorial stance appears to be open to unconventional ideas and critical of those who dismiss phenomena without thorough investigation, as seen in the critique of Sam Moskowitz. The magazine also aims to educate its readers, providing practical advice like James Randi's guide to observing celestial objects. There is a clear distinction made between official publications and more confidential "Newsletters" for sensitive information.

This issue of "The Omega Group" presents a perspective piece by "Peter Kor," who is later revealed to be Tom Comella. The article, titled "PERSPECTIVE: THE OMEGA GROUP," critiques the prevailing methodologies and attitudes within saucer research, arguing that it is often personality-oriented rather than subject-oriented. It highlights the pressure for researchers to conform to specific categories (e.g., 'scientific' vs. 'mystic,' pro- or anti-contactee cases) which stifles independent thought and creativity.

The "Peter Kor" Identity and the Omega Group

"Peter Kor" addresses the persistent questions about his identity and purpose in saucer research. He states that his real name is irrelevant, and the true test of his work lies in its merit, not his background. He confirms that "Peter Kor" is actually Tom Comella, and the use of a pseudonym was initially to present new ideas without the bias of prior thought. The public exposure of his identity was not an accident but a planned event once the pseudonym had served its initial purpose.

Comella introduces the "Omega Group," which he describes as the source of the most profound mystery associated with flying saucers. Membership is secret and not open to everyone, based on what one knows rather than status or popularity. The group has no official name and operates "underground." Comella asserts that Omega Group members know more about flying saucers than government employees or other researchers. He clarifies that the Omega Group is neither a spy organization nor a mystic cult, but holds the key to the flying saucer mystery.

He explains that "Peter Kor" is a symbol of the Omega Group's influence, and while Tom Comella writes the words, "Peter Kor" will retain the byline. Comella acknowledges that this article raises more questions than answers, which is inherent to the Omega Group's nature.

Dangerous Knowledge and Orthodoxy

The article draws a parallel to Richard Shaver's concept of "safe" versus "dangerous" knowledge. "Safe" knowledge is common and predictable, fitting into existing frameworks. "Dangerous" knowledge, conversely, is hidden, creates upheavals, and threatens the status quo. The Omega Group possesses such dangerous knowledge, making it a threat to the established order of saucer research. Those who possess this knowledge, like "Peter Kor," are considered "heretics" by the orthodox.

Comella criticizes researchers who try to convert "Kor" to their specific views, eager to employ his talents but unwilling to consider his criticisms. He argues that true heretics cannot be converted because of what they know, and a secret is unwelcome to any group's status quo. The possessor of a secret fact is responsible for it, and only the discoverer can judge its use.

Critiques of Saucer Research and the Nature of Truth

Comella anticipates that some will accuse "Kor" of being a puppet or part of a sinister plot to confuse saucer research. He dismisses this as a predictable reaction from those who see conspiracies in what they don't understand. He argues that the real confusion in saucer research stems from its undisciplined, dogmatic, and narrow approach. The truth about flying saucers, he contends, is so unrecognized that it doesn't need to be "concealed." Furthermore, no power can hide this truth from those who are meant to know it.

He suggests that even powerful groups like the Air Force or CIA are helpless in the face of the saucer "invasion" because they lack "The Secret." The majority of people, Comella believes, will resort to intellectual laziness and dismiss "Kor's" ideas as games. He asserts that he has dedicated years and hundreds of articles not to sensationalize, but because there is a genuine secret to the flying saucer mystery, and the Omega Group is its caretaker.

Recent News: UFO Sightings and Incidents

The issue includes a section titled "RECENT NEWS" (Recent News), detailing various UFO sightings and incidents from around the world:

• New Hampshire: Norman Muscarello reported being chased by a brilliant red object at low altitude. Police officers corroborated seeing a blinding glow of light, estimating the object's size as "about the size of a house." Animals on a nearby farm were panicked.
• Mid-west and West USA: The Air Force claimed that radar and visual sightings in early August were of Jupiter or stars. However, Robert Risser, a planetarium director, refuted this, stating these celestial bodies were on the opposite side of the Earth.
• South Africa: A policeman reported a landing of a flaming UFO, about 30 feet in diameter, resembling a spinning top, on a highway near Pretoria. Scientists examined the site where a six-foot-wide section of pavement was burned.
• Pennsylvania: Lee Noll photographed a round object moving at high speed. The object was not seen visually but left a possible vapor trail. Another UFO was seen visually and disappeared at incredible velocity.
• Paraguay: Five people witnessed three UFOs with rows of windows, alternating in color, hovering for about five minutes near Asuncion.
• Argentina: Several people saw a "scout ship" separate from a "mother ship" near Bahia Blanca, emitting a blinding red light before a smaller object descended.
• Brazil: A radar team tracked a UFO at 1,200 yards altitude traveling at 60 mph, while a resident saw an orange-colored object at low altitude.
• California: Rex Heflin photographed a UFO estimated to be 30 feet in diameter and 8 feet thick, with a rotating beam of white light. The object made no sound, and radio communication was disrupted.
• Maryland: Strange metal fragments fell on a property after a flash, and preliminary tests indicated they were not from a meteorite.
• Ohio: Six children witnessed a saucer-like object, described as "the size of a compact auto," with windows around its circumference, hover near a residential neighborhood. Animals reacted with panic, and radio/TV reception was interfered with.
• Lake Superior: A UPI report described a chase involving Air Force jets and seven to ten UFOs flying in a V-formation at high speeds. The jets were outdistanced, and the Air Force base later denied the incident.
• Kansas: A truck driver reported his lights going out as a flying saucer passed overhead, making a "sizzling or wind-like blowing sound." The object was orange, 15 feet in diameter, and shot off reddish rays.
• Panama/Pacific: A radio personality provided information about a secret Air Force film from 1948 showing an Air Force jet intercepting six UFOs in formation over the Pacific.
• Michigan: Reports of a grunting monster terrified people, with a large crowd hunting for it. Earlier accounts suggested a "real Fortean interest" in the area.
• Chile: A civil engineer saw a UFO settle gently on a beach, described as a bright red, top-shaped object with a diameter of 10-12 yards, emitting a strange light and noise. It then departed at high speed.
• Buenos Aires: Numerous people saw a red and green object fly at low altitude. A movie photographer captured faint footage of a UFO.
• Uruguay: Six teenagers saw a flying saucer land for two minutes on a beach near Colonia.
• Australia: Denis Crowe described a giant disc bathed in an eerie glow, about 20 feet in diameter and 9 feet high, with protruding legs. It took off with a yellowish glow and a weird sound.
• Florida: Howard Menger's planned space convention faced opposition due to his past, leading to its cancellation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of knowledge, particularly "dangerous" or secret knowledge, and its relationship with established scientific and research communities. The editorial stance, as presented through "Peter Kor's" perspective, is critical of conformity and advocates for independent, critical thinking in the study of flying saucers. There is a strong emphasis on the idea that the true understanding of the saucer phenomenon requires delving into deeper, hidden mysteries beyond conventional approaches. The compilation of "Recent News" serves to underscore the ongoing and widespread nature of UFO activity, often met with official denial or misinterpretation, reinforcing the idea that a "secret" is being kept or is yet to be understood by the mainstream.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, identified by its page number '21', '22', '23', '24', '25', '26', and '27', covers a wide range of UFO-related incidents and related topics. The magazine is published quarterly by the Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society (S.A.U.C.E.R.S.) and is priced at $2.00 for six issues or 35¢ per copy.

SAUCER LANDING IN NORTH CAROLINA

A significant report details a landing near Mount Airy, N.C., on August 19th. Mrs. T. E. Schumaker reported seeing a cigar-shaped white object rise at an angle. The next morning, a six-inch band of depressed grass in a perfect 12-foot circle was found, along with fresh green leaves strewn on the driveway. A reporter from the Winston-Salem (N.C.) Journal investigated and found remnants of the circle still present.

RECENT LECTURES SPONSORED BY SAUCER NEWS

On August 13th, Gray Barker, a well-known saucer researcher and author, gave a talk to over 200 people, making it the largest crowd for the lecture series. He presented slides from his collection of saucer photographs. On September 17th, Paul Koslouski presented a tape recording of George Adamski's last lecture, and John Prytz, head of the UFO Investigative Committee, spoke on the scientific probabilities of intelligent life on other planets. This lecture was marred by technical difficulties with the tape and a loud Latin band.

UFO Investigator James E. Mellodew

On October 15th, James E. Mellodew of Philadelphia gave a talk about a genuine UFO movie film he shot. More details were promised for the next issue. The magazine reminds readers in the New York area to send a postcard for lecture notices, usually held on the third Friday of the month at the Hotel Woodstock.

"THE THING" VISITS ENGLAND

The town of Warminster, England, has experienced eight months of strange phenomena, including vibrations, 'whirrings', humming sounds, and UFO sightings. A wire service report from September 6th describes an 'explosion' and a 200-foot-high orange-colored mushroom of smoke seen by over one hundred residents. Some saw an orange light flooding their rooms, and windows were shattered. The UFO is described as long and cigar-shaped. The Warminster City Council held a public inquiry, and the Army's investigation was also puzzled.

PENNSYLVANIA PILOT CHASES UFO

An article dated August 13th recounts a veteran pilot, Ray Hoffman, spotting a mysterious bright white light while flying from Kennedy International Airport to Hazleton, Pa. The object was pursued but sped off at an estimated two to three times the plane's speed. Hoffman, owner of Shamokin Flying Service, discounted the idea of a reflection.

MANY LANDINGS IN MEXICO

A September news report details several recent landings in Mexico. One credible incident involved a UFO landing near the National Polytechnic Institute in Mexico City, with pictures of scorched rocks displayed. In a remote province, a saucer was allegedly captured by the Mexican Army, though denied. Residents near Texcoco reported a saucer landing on a lake and sinking.

"Contactee" Stories from Mexico

"Contactee" stories from Mexico involve students claiming rides in flying saucers. University students were allegedly taken to Jupiter's third moon by telepathic giants. They reported finding a family from Brazil already living there.

MOTION PICTURE OF UFO IN FLORIDA

An article from the Orlando (Florida) Sentinel on September 21st describes James R. Peek photographing a UFO near Cape Kennedy shortly after the Gemini 5 take-off. The film shows three brilliant objects in motion, described as a 'sliver of brilliant green phosphorescent light'. Howard Menger, a contactee, was interested in the case.

SAUCER FLAP AROUND ALBANY, NEW YORK

On August 10th, a man saw a strange 'wing-shaped' object pass slowly in front of his car. A similar sighting was made the same day by a housewife in Castleton, N.Y. On August 11th, a woman in Menands, N.Y., reported seeing two gleaming silver objects.

ANOTHER LANDING IN CHILE

On August 2nd, a saucer landing occurred in Llanquihue, Chile, witnessed by the Secretary General of the National Health Department and others. Some women fainted. Men who approached the craft saw it take off at high speed, leaving a round charred area and uprooted trees.

SAUCER LANDING IN BRAZIL

On September 10th, near Sao Joao, Pernambuco, a field hand named Antonio Paul Ferro Da Silva observed two flying saucers and three small creatures talking in an unknown language. The saucers were described as larger than the largest tractor.

LANDINGS IN PERU

Three landing stories from Peru are detailed. One involved a 15-year-old boy in Lima who saw a small flying saucer and a 3½-foot-tall being with 'greenish lights'. Another report from September 11th in Santa Barbara describes two three-foot-tall men. Hundreds of peasants in Huancavelica saw five UFOs.

Third Peruvian Landing

A July 29th clipping describes a young worker in Lima who saw a flying object with a flashing green light land in a parking lot. It had a turret and an arm that moved.

NEWS BRIEFS

• A photograph taken on September 28th in Norwick, Connecticut, shows a UFO hovering near the moon.
• On July 5th, ten businessmen in San Jose, Costa Rica, saw a UFO hovering over a beach.
• The magazine 'The Nation' gave a moderately favorable mention to SAUCER NEWS, noting its sympathetic but not uncritical stance towards contactees.
• A report from Brattleboro, Vermont, dated September 10th, describes a woman terrified by a UFO that landed in a field, leaving imprints.
• In Brazil, a man named Joao da Rio encountered a tiny man about 28 inches high who claimed to be from another world and offered a piece of 'unearthly' metal.
• An August 2nd article in 'Alantida' magazine quotes a storekeeper who claims a 39-inch-tall flying saucer pilot said full contact would be made on December 3rd.
• A clipping from Portsmouth, Virginia, mentions a young man who saw a UFO.

"FORTEAN" SAMPLE IS DIFFICULT TO ANALYZE

A 'Fortean' 'physical evidence' sample received from Justin Case of Bridgeton, N.J., was sent for analysis. It consists of carbon, and tests for structure and radioactivity are pending.

SAUCER HOVERS OVER CAR IN WASHINGTON STATE

A July 2nd incident, reported mid-August, involved Mrs. A. W. Brundage whose car stopped dead and headlights went out as a glowing object hovered inches above her hood. The object made a 'whistling swish' and disappeared. The car battery was dead the next day, and the clock was two minutes slow.

SAUCER LANDING IN CONNECTICUT

On October 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, Ronald Rubenstein of Southington, Conn., saw a UFO low over his car. It was described as 2½ car lengths in diameter with a 'corrugated bottom' and numerous lights. It landed on a hill, leaving a charred area.

Advertisement

An advertisement lists various UFO-related publications for sale, including B.S.R.A., Tomorrow, Fate, Exploring the Unknown, Flying Saucers, Search, SAUCER NEWS, Psychic Observer, Psychic News, and Two Worlds. It directs inquiries to Kathleen Ludwick in Baltimore, Maryland.

Jeane Dixon: A Gift of Prophecy

The issue includes a section on Jeane Dixon, detailing her prediction of President Kennedy's assassination in 1952. It describes her vision of a dark cloud over the White House and the numerals '1960'. The text highlights her other visions and predictions.

Ghosts I've Met by Hans Holzer

A review of Hans Holzer's book, 'Ghosts I've Met', is presented. The book applies his investigative techniques to haunted houses and people in the US, British Isles, and Europe, featuring accounts of ghosts in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wilmington, North Carolina, Los Angeles, and Sawston Hall.

The World of Bees by Murray Hoyt

A description of Murray Hoyt's book, 'The World of Bees', is included. It explores the complex communities of bees, the roles of the queen, workers, and drones, and their communication systems.

Abominable Snowmen: Legend Come to Life by Ivan T. Sanderson

This section mentions Ivan T. Sanderson's book on Abominable Snowmen.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SAUCER NEWS focuses heavily on UFO sightings, landings, and alleged encounters from around the globe, with a particular emphasis on detailed eyewitness accounts. The magazine also features reports on lectures by UFO researchers and authors, suggesting an active community interested in disseminating information. The inclusion of Jeane Dixon's prophecies and a review of a book on ghosts indicates a broader interest in paranormal phenomena beyond just UFOs. The editorial stance, as noted in 'The Nation' mention, is to be sympathetic to contactees but not to automatically accept their claims, prioritizing factual evidence of sightings while also exploring philosophical implications.