Saucer News - Whole Number 64 - Vol 13 No 02 - 1966 06

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: Volume 13, Number 2 (Whole Number 64)
Date: June, 1966
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Price: 50¢

This issue of SAUCER NEWS presents a collection of articles exploring various facets of the UFO phenomenon, with a strong emphasis on a specific landing case and broader research efforts. The publication aims to present new and interesting aspects of the saucer mystery without censorship, believing UFOs to be an authentic and challenging mystery, possibly extraterrestrial in origin, though definitive proof is still lacking.

Feature Articles

An Analysis of the 1965 Brooksville Landing Case

This extensive article by William J. Dunn, Jr. details an incident that occurred on March 2nd, 1965, in Brooksville, Florida. John Reeves reported seeing a disc-shaped object, approximately 40 feet in diameter and 8-9 feet thick, with four stilt-like legs and a dome, land in a sand dune area. While observing the craft, Reeves encountered a creature with a tight, luminous skin covering its body. The creature approached Reeves, emitted an extremely bright flash from a camera-like object, and then, after Reeves fled and lost his glasses, returned them to him and helped him up. The creature then dropped two pieces of paper with a message that the U.S. Air Force allegedly deciphered as: "Planet Mars, are you coming home soon? We miss you very much. Why did you stay away too long?"

The creature then re-entered the saucer via a retractable stairway, and the craft rotated counter-clockwise before ascending vertically and departing at high speed within 15 seconds. Reeves was communicated the idea that the craft would return in 29 days.

On March 31st, 1965, Reeves returned to the landing area with Mr. Lee Chastain and his wife. They observed a similar object, but it did not land as three Air Force jets intervened, nearly colliding with the saucer before it departed rapidly. Mr. Chastain reportedly took two close-range photos but has refused to release them, allegedly for his wife's sake, who is a writer.

The author notes that an Air Force insider indicated the planes closed in on the saucer at near-zero altitude, suggesting the photos would be largely filled with the craft. The article also mentions tracks found on October 21st, 1965, similar to those left in March, and four landing gear holes. The author conducted geographical analysis, noting the remoteness of the site and a nearby abandoned settlement called Natal.

Dunn concludes that the March 2nd landing did occur, but believes Reeves is not telling the entire truth, possibly due to instructions from the creature(s). Lie detector tests on Reeves showed a consistent intention, suggesting his account might be genuine, though embellished. The March 31st sighting is deemed to have occurred, and the October 21st track reappearance is attributed to a hoax by local news media persons.

The article also discusses the confusion surrounding the case due to the activities of "The UFO Research Society" in St. Petersburg, Fla. It notes continued Air Force activity in the area, including jets and suspected aerial photography. Sightings of saucers hovering over Deep End of Lake are mentioned, with witnesses reporting a dull glow from the lake, leading to speculation about a possible saucer base beneath the water. The author also presents a lead on an ancient Aztec city south of Fort Meyers, Florida, which may have housed a saucer base and had connections with "sky people."

Nightly activities involving blue flashlights to attract saucers are described, with one witness reporting an electric shock after signaling. The author posits that saucers are keeping something secret in the Brooksville area.

Bobby and the Spacemen

This article by Robert P. Renaud, described as a "new wave" contactee, recounts the story of a boy named Bobby who, while listening to his radio, made contact with a "space lady" from a planet called Korendor, 411.03 light years away. The space lady, one of 25 "space people" doing research on Earth, communicated with Bobby. In 1962, they arranged a meeting, and Bobby was taken by these "space people" in their "car" to a place in the woods. There, he was shown "fun things" like lasers, ray guns, and Gravitomagnetic Flux Negators. He was told that "evil scientists" were creating these weapons to destroy the world, which scared Bobby. The space people assured him they were there to help humanity avoid destruction and promote peace.

Bobby reportedly received rides in their spaceships, flew them three times, and toured two underground bases. He is expected to go to Korendor soon.

The editor notes that while Renaud is a known contactee, his writings, including this one, seem to be written with tongue in cheek, though Renaud insists he believes his own story.

UFO Research in the United States (Part One)

This article by Jacques Vallee discusses the state of UFO research in the United States. It highlights the challenge of maintaining an open mind in the face of conventional scientific dogma. Vallee references "The Morning of the Magicians" by Louis Pauwels and Jacques Bergier as a book that encourages exploration beyond accepted knowledge. The article poses several questions about potential extraterrestrial visitors, lost civilizations, advanced intelligence, and the limits of human consciousness. It mentions the discovery of ancient electrical devices and recent findings in brain wave research. Vallee suggests that human intelligence has advanced significantly and that we may be on the cusp of a new state of awareness.

FIRST PHOTOS OF MARTIAN CANALSI

This brief article by Gordon H. Evans presents photographs claimed to be the first photos of Martian canals. The article does not provide further details on the origin or nature of these photos within the provided text.

Editorials and Notes

Editorial: SAUCER NEWS EDITOR EXPELLED FROM NICAP

The editorial addresses the expulsion of the SAUCER NEWS editor from the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) by Major Donald E. Keyhoe. The editor states that Keyhoe's letter contained false and out-of-context paraphrasing of a previous article and a "Resolution for a Better NICAP." Keyhoe also claimed the editor threatened to rejoin under an assumed name. The editor asserts that NICAP cannot legally refuse to send its publicly-distributed magazine to anyone willing to pay for it, and that membership must be open to everyone. The matter has been referred to the Postal Inspection Service. The editor expresses confusion as to why only he, among the signers of the NICAP Resolution, received this treatment, suggesting Keyhoe believes SAUCER NEWS is a monolithic organization and that all criticism of NICAP is inspired by him, which is denied.

Editorial Notes

This section reiterates the magazine's policy of publishing articles on any new and interesting aspect of the saucer mystery without censorship, including articles by contactees and lists of UFO clubs. The editors believe UFOs represent an authentic and challenging mystery, likely extraterrestrial, but without final proof. Tape recordings of New York lectures are now available for $4.95 per tape. Timothy Green Beckley has been promoted to Advertising Manager, and Mike Generelli, Jr. has joined the Discussion and Lecture Committee. Subscription rates have increased to $2.00 for four quarterly issues as of June 1st, 1966. Readers are asked to send correspondence to the post office box in Fort Lee, N.J. The editor's planned trip to South America was postponed. An apology is issued for a completely fouled-up page sequence in the March issue due to a bindery error. Readers are encouraged to send UFO clippings. The section notes an apparent "publicity breakthrough" for UFOs in 1966, with articles appearing in national magazines and anticipated coverage in "This Week" and "The New Yorker," as well as radio and television appearances by various UFO researchers.

Advertisements

Advertisements include "DIARY OF A PSYCHIC" by Joseph W. Donnelly, detailing 50 years of ESP investigations and "SPACE PEOPLE" encounters, priced at $2.50. Also available is "The Journal of UFO Worldwide," Europe's publication, for $3.00 per year. Book lists and back issues can be obtained from Timothy Green Beckley. Another ad promotes a "UFO DETECTOR" (Swiss precision made) for $10.00, with kit and blueprints also available. Ads for Swedenborg's "Revelations of Other Planets" are also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of SAUCER NEWS strongly advocates for an open-minded approach to the UFO phenomenon, challenging conventional scientific limitations. The magazine positions itself as a platform for diverse viewpoints, including those of contactees, while maintaining its own stance that UFOs represent a genuine, albeit unproven, mystery. The editorial content reveals a critical stance towards NICAP's leadership, particularly Major Keyhoe, and highlights the magazine's commitment to publishing information that might be considered "too hot to handle" in its regular issues, as evidenced by the mention of a confidential non-scheduled newsletter. There is a recurring theme of potential extraterrestrial contact and advanced civilizations, both in the present and ancient past, with a focus on uncovering hidden knowledge and challenging established scientific and societal norms. The magazine appears to be actively involved in promoting UFO research and awareness, as indicated by its lecture series, publication of recordings, and efforts to secure broader media coverage.

This document is a book list and partial magazine issue from AFSCA (Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America), titled "AFSCA FLYING SAUCER AND NEW AGE BOOK LIST." It includes a catalog of books with prices, a subscription and order form for AFSCA publications, and two articles.

Book List

The primary content of the first page is a comprehensive list of books related to flying saucers and New Age topics. Each entry includes the author, title, and price. A note indicates that a 15¢ mailing charge is included in the prices, and California residents must add 4% sales tax. Several authors are listed multiple times, such as Michael "X" Barton and Dr. Daniel W. Fry, with various titles.

Subscription and Order Form

Following the book list is an order form for AFSCA publications. A six-issue subscription to "UFO INTERNATIONAL" (quarterly) is priced at $3.00. Single copies are 50¢. Additional items available for purchase include a membership card, flying saucer button, stamps, and postcards for $1.00. Sets of Paul Villa Saucer Photos are offered in two sets, each for $3.00. A special back issue sale offers 12 issues for $3.00. Individual back issues of "UFO International" (#18-23) are 50¢ each. Flying Saucer Color-Photo Post Cards are available in packs of 50 for $1.00 or 15 for 50¢. The order form also reiterates the California sales tax requirement and provides the AFSCA mailing address in Los Angeles, California.

UFO RESEARCH IN THE UNITED STATES-(Part One) by Jacques Vallee

This article, authored by Jacques Vallee and reprinted from "Flying Saucer Review," is the first part of a survey on UFO research organizations in the United States as of August 1965. Vallee explains that researchers rely on accurate and up-to-date accounts, which are often difficult to obtain from large newspapers. Civilian UFO groups and their periodicals are highlighted as significant sources of information, though many focus more on theories than extensive documentation.

The survey's motivation stemmed from the need to examine the reliability of the UFO research network and to explore the sociological aspect of UFO rumors, including correlations between local group activity and member beliefs. Vallee notes that over two hundred and seventeen UFO organizations had been formed in the U.S. since 1947, though many may no longer be active. Of the groups reached by questionnaire, about thirty provided sufficient detail for inclusion.

The article then lists several civilian UFO organizations, providing their names, addresses, directors, founding dates, membership numbers, beliefs about UFOs, and publications. Notable organizations include:

• Interplanetary Intelligence of Unidentified Flying Objects (IIOUFO): Founded August 1958, claims 4500 members, believes UFOs are real but uncertain of origin.
• American UFO Committee (AMUFO): Formed October 1963, affiliated with the United Ufological Association.
• National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) (Major Keyhoe's group): Formed in 1956, claims 5500 members, hypothesizes UFOs are real and controlled from an extraterrestrial source, and charges the U.S. Air Force with secrecy.
• Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO): Founded January 1952, the oldest organization, with 800 members, believes in an interplanetary source and has documented landings.
• National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) (Robert J. Gribble's group): Formed January 1955, distinct from Keyhoe's NICAP, believes a high percentage of UFOs are from another world.
• Flying Saucer News Club of America (FSNCA): Formed March 1955, believes authorities have evidence of UFO origin.
• Amalgamated Flying Saucer Clubs of America (AFSCA): Founded January 1959, has 2500 members, believes UFOs are extraterrestrial spaceships piloted by beings from other planets.
• Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society (SAUCERS): Created July 1954, has 4000 members, believes UFOs are probably extraterrestrial.

The article also includes a chart showing the creation dates of 24 groups active on January 1, 1965, and a key to various organizations.

FIRST PHOTOS OF MARTIAN CANALS! by Gordon H. Evans

This article discusses the first photographic evidence of the famed Martian canals. Astronomer Schiaparelli first noticed these "canali" (channels) in 1877. Percival Lowell later founded an observatory in Arizona and concluded that these "canali" were actual waterways, possibly built by a dying race. However, astronomical photography at the time struggled to capture the fine detail of the canals due to Mars being a weak light source and Earth's atmospheric disturbances causing blurring during long exposures.

The article highlights a revolution in the 1950s with the development of "image intensification" techniques. These electronic methods can brighten dim telescopic images, allowing photographs to be taken at high speed without the loss of detail. The article explains that these intensifiers convert photons into electrons, which are then amplified and reconverted into light, offering a 20 to 200 times better chance of capturing faint light. Photographs shown were taken using the image orthicon method during the 1965 Mars opposition at a leading American observatory.

Evans notes that these new photographs show more detail than previous direct photographs, with a net improvement of about 15 times. The "lakes" or "oases" of Mars are visible as dark dots. More significantly, the delicate geometric network of canals, mentioned by classical visual observers, can now be detected. The article includes images comparing a Lowell Observatory map of Mars with an enlarged section of an image orthicon photograph, pointing out specific canals and regions like the Syrtis Major and Tritonis Sinus. The article concludes that Percival Lowell was correct about the canals, if not his interpretation of their nature.

Footnotes provide references to Lowell's books, E.C. Slipher's work on Mars photography, discussions with M.A. Tuve of the Carnegie Institution, and articles on image intensifiers.

Advertisements

An advertisement for "Ancient and modern Biblical 'tongues-speaking' analysis" is present, offering a booklet for $1.00. Another ad offers back issues of "The UFO REPORTER" for $1.00 for two issues.

Letters to the Editor

This section features several letters from readers:

• Daniel Cohen (Managing Editor, "Science Digest") criticizes John J. Robinson's article about the Great Northeastern Power Failure, stating it was speculative and based on misinformation, and that Robinson got the starting point of the blackout wrong.
• R.C. Rome praises John J. Robinson's article but suggests an electrical engineer correct technical terms like "kilowatts" and "kilovolts."
• Frank A. Young III commends the March issue's new format and content, particularly "Operation Skytrace."
• Sam Kesler expresses gratitude for the improvements in "SAUCER NEWS" and calls it the best publication on UFOs.
• Patricia Morgan congratulates the magazine on "shaking up NICAP" and hopes for reforms.

An editor's note clarifies that those interested in "Operation Skytrace" should contact James E. Mellodew directly.

Additional Photos

Page 19 includes three photographs:

1. A policeman in Dexter, Michigan, snapped a photo of what he claims are unidentified flying objects.
2. A picture of a footprint of an alleged space creature found in Brooksville, Florida, measuring 12 inches.
3. A picture of the grounds where John Reeves said a flying saucer landed in Brooksville, Florida.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, research organizations, and the scientific investigation of phenomena, particularly celestial bodies like Mars. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting UFO research, providing a platform for various viewpoints through letters to the editor, and disseminating information on both historical and contemporary UFO-related topics. The inclusion of a book list and subscription offers indicates a focus on engaging readers interested in the broader spectrum of UFO and New Age subjects. There's a clear emphasis on documenting evidence, as seen in the Martian canals article and the reporting of recent UFO photos, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of some theories, as highlighted in the letters to the editor.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated from the 1960s (specific issue date not provided), focuses on recent UFO sightings and related controversies within the UFO community. The content includes letters to the editor, detailed reports of specific sightings, and analysis of official explanations. The magazine appears to be a platform for discussing UFO phenomena, critiquing organizations like NICAP, and presenting various witness accounts and expert opinions.

Letters to the Editor

The issue features several letters from readers offering their perspectives on UFOs and related organizations.

• SEWO TSUGIO KUMOI from Kobe City, Japan, agrees with a resolution concerning NICAP, emphasizing the need for courageous and intelligent cooperation in studying UFOs.
• CURTIS FULLER, Editor of Fate Magazine, expresses disagreement with a resolution regarding NICAP, viewing it as a non-governmental agency like APRO and others, and suggesting that singling out NICAP gives it undue status. While acknowledging NICAP has done constructive things, he recounts personal unsatisfactory dealings with Keyhoe regarding donations and a publication proposal. Fuller believes NICAP's criticism regarding 'emotional and unswerving hatred of the Air Force' might be strong, but agrees that the existence of UFOs is a premise to start from.
• A letter from ALAN KAISHER of West Chicago, Illinois, criticizes the "NICAP controversy" and expresses frustration with other UFO groups. He argues that NICAP has done more than other UFO groups combined, citing its efforts to lobby Congress for an investigation. He also advocates for serious-minded UFO groups to avoid supporting contactee claims, which he believes cloud the issue of UFO reality.
• ROBERT BARROW, a Member of NICAP from Syracuse, N.Y., writes to challenge the endorsement list for a resolution concerning NICAP. He questions the qualifications of many listed 'leaders' and suggests they should examine their own records before criticizing NICAP. He suspects there might be ulterior motives behind the resolution.
• PETER KOR of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, responds to an article titled "The Omega Group." He dismisses a reader's claim that the Omega Group is a fraud, stating that no evidence was offered to refute. Kor criticizes the "sour humor" and "marked frustration" of a contactee who resorts to ridicule when unable to meet a challenge. He clarifies that the Omega Group is not a "secret society" or comprised of saucer researchers, and distinguishes its members by their "competence," contrasting it with the "dogmatic belief, frustration, and ridicule" found in cult-like saucer groups.

Recent UFO Sightings

This section provides detailed accounts of UFO incidents:

• Michigan Flap: The report begins with sightings in Wisconsin on March 14th, involving strange lights and loud noises. The flap then intensified in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with flashing blue-green objects seen by police and residents. Patrolmen pursued one object, described as rocket-like with lights. On March 17th, four UFOs were seen near Ann Arbor, described as large, glowing tops moving at high speeds. On March 20th, over fifty people in Dexter, Michigan, witnessed a UFO with red and green lights, and an automobile-sized object hovered and landed. Police chased several flying objects that night. The report also details a sighting by farmer Frank Mannor and his son, who observed a "grayish-yellow" object with pulsating blue and white lights, about the length of a car, which disappeared suddenly with a "whoofing sound."
• Hillsdale, Michigan: The following night, about 87 coeds at a girls' dormitory witnessed a UFO hovering and maneuvering over a marsh. Drawings by the girls and a log of sightings were made. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, chief civilian consultant to Air Force Project Blue Book, attributed the Dexter and Hillsdale sightings to "marsh gas," a claim the article strongly refutes, citing witness accounts, drawings, and the discovery of "football-shaped bare patches" on the grass where the Hillsdale UFO hovered. The article also notes a conflict between Dr. Hynek and Major Hector Quintinella regarding this explanation, with Hynek threatening to quit.
• Minnesota Incident: Edward Bruns, a 16-year-old, reported a dark oval-shaped object hovering above his truck. The headlights and motor cut out, and the UFO rose, emitting a red glow and sparks. The truck was later found in a ditch, pointing in the opposite direction, with no tracks leading to it, suggesting the UFO lifted and moved the vehicle.
• Australia Incident: Antonin Kukla and Audrey Lawrence reported an automobile accident with a flying saucer near Carnarvon. The UFO, moving at high speed, swerved and hit their car's grill. It then hovered nearby, emitting a red and green glow.
• Wanaque, New Jersey Flap: This flap, occurring in mid-January, involved sightings over the Wanaque Reservoir. Patrolmen saw an object moving circularly and hovering. Dozens of other sightings followed, attracting tourists. Notable witnesses included local officials and police. A daytime sighting by the wife of Patrolman Joseph Sisco described a round white UFO moving at terrific speed. Two members of the C. B. Rangers spotted a "fat cigar-shaped object" hovering at tree-top level with amber lights that did not emit beams. A research engineer named Basil Wallack reported a bright blue light hovering near a lonely road, which then moved erratically.
• "Flying Saucer Nests" in Australia: In Tully, Queensland, circular clearings of flattened reeds, presumed to be "nests" used by flying saucers, were found. George Pedley reported seeing a blue-gray object, about 25 feet across, rise from one of these spots.
• Spain Landing: A UFO landing occurred in a suburb of Madrid. The object was disc-shaped, orange, with three leg-like appendages, and left a black burned spot upon departure.
• Maine Sighting: Two patrolmen in Skowhegan spotted an 18 to 20-foot long, fiery orange object moving toward the town at high speed. Local radar confirmed the sighting. Earlier that evening, a couple reported their car's electrical systems failing near Skowhegan, possibly due to a UFO's proximity.
• Hollywood Incident: Actor Stuart Whitman claimed two flying saucers appeared outside his hotel window during the East Coast power blackout, stating the occupants claimed it was a "demonstration of their power" and a warning.
• Japan Sightings: Nine black, saucer-shaped UFOs were seen hovering over Yokahama on December 19th, 1965. Later, a white cigar-shaped UFO appeared, followed by a group of nine cigar-shaped objects.
• Argentina Incident: A car's engine failed on a road near Chas-Comus, accompanied by a blinding light from overhead. After the UFO moved away, the engine resumed normal function.
• Peru Specimen: A "baby sea monster," about 12 inches long, was found off the coast of Peru, with scientists estimating adults could reach 100 feet.
• England Photograph: A photograph of a flying saucer, described as "most authentic," was taken by two English women. Aviation historian Charles H. Gibbs-Smith believed it depicted an interplanetary spaceship.
• Spain "Mystery Objects": Three "mystery objects," each weighing 31.74 pounds and measuring 14.9 inches in diameter, reportedly landed in Spain.
• U.N. Petition: Colman Von Keviczky petitioned the U.N. Secretary-General to establish a UFO observer network.
• Mars Spacecraft: The space science board of the National Academy of Sciences advised NASA about the possibility of "unimaginably strange" creatures on Mars and urged equipping future spacecraft with cameras.
• Tulsa, Oklahoma Sighting: A UFO, described as "a hundred times brighter than a star, and much larger," was seen over Tulsa.
• North Carolina and New Mexico: A U-2 pilot claims to have seen a "mother ship" and a UFO pacing missiles at 70,000 feet.
• British Columbia Sighting: A flying saucer with a dome was seen near Kelowna, disappearing at "unbelievable speed." Another sighting involved a UFO hovering over Lake Okanagan, with a smaller object emerging from the water to join it.
• Vice-President Humphrey on Mars Life: Vice-President Humphrey called for international cooperation in reaching Mars, suggesting a prospect of making contact with intelligent life and advocating for a "new world order."
• Bad Axe, Michigan: A mysterious blue light was seen over Lake Huron.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings, the perceived inadequacy or bias of official explanations (particularly from the Air Force and Dr. Hynek), and the internal debates within the UFO community regarding organizations like NICAP and the validity of contactee claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official explanations, a critical but generally supportive view of NICAP's efforts despite its flaws, and a strong emphasis on serious, evidence-based research over sensationalism or unverified claims. The magazine aims to present a comprehensive overview of UFO phenomena, encouraging critical thinking and further investigation.

This issue of SAUCER NEWS, dated March 1967, focuses on recent UFO sightings and news, including a critical look at Air Force data and reports of various aerial phenomena across the United States and Canada. The magazine aims to document and analyze these events for the UFO research community.

UFO Sightings Across the US and Canada

The issue details a flurry of UFO sightings reported in late March 1967. On March 23rd, reports came in from Washington D.C. and Silver Springs, Maryland, where six people witnessed a white light traveling at high speed. The same day, a similar report emerged from Key West, Florida, involving a group spotting UFOs. Residents of Lake Carmel, New York, observed a UFO performing maneuvers for 45 minutes on the night of the 24th. Bruce Field of East Hampton, New York, reported a glowing torpedo-shaped object. An unconfirmed report from Oklahoma described a UFO landing and a humanoid creature emerging. St. Louis, Missouri, saw flying objects, including an orange mass with a flaming tail and a hovering UFO with colored lights. Several nights of sightings were also reported in Wanaque, New Jersey. On March 27th, a glowing blue object, described as a 'big bolt of fire,' was seen in North Carolina. A pilot reported a mysterious explosion in the air southwest of New Orleans, which the Coast Guard could not explain. In Trinidad, Colorado, students and a hotel clerk saw a pulsating light hover. A significant incident occurred on March 28th near Houston, Texas, where a UFO reportedly collided with an automobile, leaving dents on the roof. Southern Maine also experienced numerous sightings, including an egg-shaped, multi-colored object observed by a teen-aged astronomer. John King of Bangor, Maine, fired shots at a glowing, cigar-shaped UFO. Sightings were also reported over the World's Fair grounds in New York City and near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

Air Force UFO Data Analysis

The "RECENT NEWS" section critically examines the latest Air Force Fact Sheet, "Project Blue Book, 1 February, 1966." The analysis by the SAUCER NEWS staff reveals that the Air Force has suddenly increased sighting totals for most years since 1947, while decreasing the number of 'unknowns.' This has significantly reduced the percentage of unexplained cases. The magazine questions these discrepancies, particularly the increase in 1947 cases from 79 to 122, with a simultaneous decrease in unknowns. The total number of sightings reported through 1965 is listed as 10,147, but the staff's calculation based on the provided figures yields 10,047, a difference of 100 cases. The article expresses bewilderment and calls for a better explanation from the Air Force.

Official Statements and Public Reaction

Defense Secretary Robert S. McNamara stated that the U.S. has no secret devices resembling UFOs and, while not categorically denying outer space visits, does not believe they are occurring. These statements, along with others from high officials, tended to restore a degree of national calm, making the average person feel the 'flap' was not as significant as initially perceived. However, the magazine asserts that the detailed sightings in this issue confirm that something 'really weird and really important is going on.'

Press-Time Bulletins and Other News

Press-time bulletins include denials from Dr. Hynek and Major Quintinella regarding a story about their argument concerning the Michigan flap. A Frontier Air Line pilot reportedly detoured to look for a UFO near Salt Lake City. An incident in Ontario, Canada, involving a boy burned by a landed UFO is mentioned, with details promised for a future issue. The issue also notes recent articles on UFOs in Life Magazine and The New Yorker.

Film of Loch Ness Monster Judged Genuine

Moving pictures of the Loch Ness Monster taken by Tim Dinsdale have been declared by Lord Shackelton, Defense Minister for the Air Force, to 'probably' show an animate object. Analysis by the Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Center suggests the object was about 92 feet long and 6 feet across, with a smooth outline, ruling out submarine vessels and concluding it is likely animate.

Recent Public Appearances and Lectures

The magazine lists recent public appearances by its staff, including interviews and lectures on topics ranging from UFOs and ancient civilizations to travel in South America. It also promotes upcoming lectures sponsored by SAUCER NEWS, usually held on the third Friday of the month at the Hotel Woodstock in New York City.

SAUCER BRIEFS and Staff Updates

The third annual Congress of Scientific Ufologists is announced for Cleveland, Ohio, from June 23rd to 26th. Yonah ibn Aharon has rejoined as Historian, and Mel Stiriss as Public Relations Director. Virginia Brasington, author of "Flying Saucers in the Bible," is reported to be seriously ill.

New Magazine and Book Releases

Max B. Miller, former editor of "Saucers," is now editing a magazine called "Real," which features an article by saucer contactee John Otto. The work of George Adamski is being continued by a foundation bearing his name, with Gray Barker intending to publish a book about Adamski, facing attempts by Foundation members to suppress it.

Book Advertisements and Offers

Several advertisements appear for related books and materials. "PRACTICAL ASTRAL PROJECTION" by Yram is offered. Dr. Frank E. Stranges presents "DANGER FROM THE STARS," a book detailing unexplained events and dark forces. "New Flying Saucerama - Revolutionary-Dynamic-Revealing" is also advertised. "1966 FORECAST" by New Horizons and "YOUR PARADISE INSIDE THIS PLANET" are promoted. A "STRANGE TAPE LIBRARY" is available. Futura Press offers back issues of "SAUCERS" magazine at a special price. The book "WILL YOU BE ALIVE IN 1975?" is advertised with a guarantee of accuracy for its forecasts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings, the perceived lack of transparency and potential manipulation of data by official bodies like the Air Force, and the promotion of alternative explanations and investigations into unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry towards official accounts and a strong belief in the significance of UFO reports, urging readers to remain informed and to question official narratives. The magazine positions itself as a source for detailed reporting and analysis for serious UFO researchers.