SBI Report - No 20 - Vol 2 No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: THE SBI REPORT
Issue: VOL.2, NO.8
Date: OCTOBER 1980
Publisher: SCIENTIFIC BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION, INC.
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The SBI Report, published by the Scientific Bureau of Investigation (SBI), is dedicated to its members and subscribers. The cover prominently features the SBI's emblem, a police-style badge, and the headline "Probing The Mysteries Of UFOS," along with the designation "THE FIGHTING TEAM 3100." The magazine is presented as a nonprofit educational and scientific corporation.

Editorial Stance and Organizational Matters

From the Editor

Pete Mazzola, the editor, addresses the members directly in his editorial, emphasizing the importance of dedication and active participation within the SBI. He states that individuals who lack self-confidence, loyalty, dedication, common sense, and consideration, or who are lax in supporting the organization, will be terminated prior to 1981. The SBI, he asserts, does not need people who are inactive. This issue is special because it includes a ballot for all members (except consultants) to vote on proposals and new innovations presented by the International Directors. These ballots must be returned promptly for tabulation. Mazzola expresses a preference for having 1000 dedicated members who actively contribute rather than a larger number who are indifferent.

He elaborates on the commitment required, noting that he and Jim have invested thousands of dollars and countless hours into UFO research and the development of the SBI. They have sacrificed personal time and finances, using their own vehicles and often foregoing reimbursement. The SBI's mission is described as extensive research and analysis of UFO phenomena, aiming to find answers that have never before been discovered. Mazzola calls for members to show a similar level of dedication, suggesting that even a single contribution per year, such as enrolling a new member or writing an article, would be significant.

In Our Opinion...

The editorial section also includes a piece titled "In our opinion..." which discusses the need for constant maintenance and attention to organizational issues, comparing it to maintaining vehicles or homes. It highlights that problems, if left unaddressed, can escalate and endanger the entire organization. This section also addresses specific operational issues:

• Telephone Calls: The SBI discourages members from making collect calls, as the 24-hour phone system is primarily for the public to report UFO incidents. Members are urged to pay for their own calls unless reporting a UFO encounter, in which case they should be prepared with specific details (date, time, involved individuals, police department, contact numbers, and a brief description of the encounter) to keep the call brief.
• SBI Items: Items submitted for publication (manuscripts, artwork, photos, news clippings) become the property of the SBI upon mailing. Return of these items is only possible if a self-addressed envelope with proper postage is supplied. The editorial notes that the same few people consistently contribute to the SBI Report, urging others to participate. Submissions should be typed, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins. Photographs and newsclippings need the contributor's name, date, source, and a brief description on the back. Drawings require the name, date, and description on a separate piece of paper, and artwork must be dark enough for publication.

Questions and Answers

This section addresses common questions from members and subscribers:

• Report Printing: Regarding the report being printed lightly, the SBI explains it's sometimes due to a lack of chemicals, but generally, it is clear and legible. They do not use a professional printer due to the high costs involved, as the report is intended solely for their membership and not for commercial competition.
• Report Understandability: The SBI states that making the report easier to understand would result in publishing "children's fairy tales," implying the subject matter is complex.
• Article Selection: Articles are printed for two reasons: a limited number of member contributions and the SBI's open-minded approach to printing diverse content related to UFOlogy, with opinions expressed not necessarily being those of the editors.

Membership and Dues

Page 4 details the "BOARD OF OFFICERS" and "STAFF" of the SBI, including key personnel like Peter Mazzola (International Director, Editor) and James Fillow (International Director, Assistant Editor). It also lists the "ENROLLMENT DUES," with annual subscription costs varying by country (United States: $12.00, Canada & Mexico: $15.00, All other countries: $20.00). A "SUBSCRIPTION ONLY (12 issues)" option is available for $12.00, and a discounted rate of $8.00 per year is offered for Students & Senior Citizens.

Investigator Expectations and Policies

"WHAT WE DID AND WHY."

This section outlines significant policy changes and enforcement measures:

1. No Collect Calls: SBI members will not have collect calls accepted unless reporting a UFO case.
2. Investigator Response: Field Investigators unable to respond to a request to document a UFO report will be terminated unless a justifiable explanation is provided.
3. Dues and Subscriptions: Members not renewing their subscription or annual dues on time will be penalized $1 per month in arrears, with termination after three months of arrears.
4. Active Member Contributions: All active members will be evaluated annually based on their contributions. Those who do not make at least one contribution per year (e.g., enrolling a new member, writing an article, documenting a UFO encounter, submitting newsclippings, or providing other publicity) will be terminated for lack of cooperation.
5. Criticism: No letters criticizing the SBI, the SBI REPORT, or any member will be answered.
6. Item Returns: No manuscript, photo, newsclipping, artwork, or other item will be returned unless a self-addressed envelope with proper return postage is supplied.

Mail

The "MAIL" section on page 8 discusses the increase in SBI mail and correspondence. Jim and Pete find it challenging to respond promptly due to their engagements. They welcome ideas but are critical of members who only criticize without contributing constructively. The section also includes a "Questions?" segment addressing common member queries.

UNREAL-

This section highlights a problem with investigators who are not actively investigating. Jim and Pete recount a personal experience where they had to conduct an investigation themselves due to the unresponsiveness of local investigators. They express frustration that investigators who enlist do not fulfill their duties, emphasizing that the SBI will not tolerate inactivity unless there is a valid reason.

Reader's Forum

Page 9 features a "Reader's Forum" with an article credited to Investigator Richard DeTaranto, published in The Howell New Jersey Statesman on October 4, 1980. The article, titled "U.F.O.'s," explains the SBI's mission to investigate UFO sightings free of charge. DeTaranto notes that UFOs have been violating American airspace for a long time and that millions have seen these objects without explanation. He stresses the importance of reporting unusual phenomena for scientific analysis. The article lists several theories about the nature of UFOs, including secret government craft, beings from other dimensions, and atmospheric phenomena. It encourages people to report their experiences, assuring confidentiality and providing contact numbers for the SBI's district office (363-6396) and main office in Staten Island (212-356-6696).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the operational efficiency, member engagement, and the core mission of the Scientific Bureau of Investigation (SBI). The editorial stance is one of demanding commitment and active participation from its members. The SBI positions itself as a dedicated research organization focused on solving the UFO enigma, emphasizing that it requires serious individuals who are willing to contribute time, effort, and sometimes personal resources. The publication serves as a communication channel for organizational updates, policy enforcement, and member feedback, reinforcing the idea that the SBI is a serious endeavor, not a casual hobby. The emphasis on clear rules, consequences for non-compliance, and the call for active contribution underscores a drive towards professionalism and effectiveness in their UFO research efforts.

This issue of "GOOD NEWS" from the SBI (presumably an organization focused on UFOlogy) provides updates on recent activities, upcoming projects, and internal proposals for its membership. The publication date is inferred to be November 1980, given the mention of the "November Issue" and proposals effective January 1, 1981.

Recent Activities and Publicity

The editors, Jim and the unnamed narrator, report on a recent "spectacular 17 witness sighting" in Anderson, South Carolina, where physical evidence of UFO presence was found. They mention that this case will be featured in the December issue of "SAGA UFO REPORT" and is being looked into by ABC's "That's Incredible." They also note that excerpts of the "SBI's Michigan police sighting" were shown on "That's Incredible" on October 13th, with their own appearance scheduled for November.

Jim Fillow will begin writing for "BEYOND REALITY" magazine, while the narrator will write for "UFO UPDATE." Both will have their own columns. The SBI is thanking Harry Belil, the publisher/editor of both magazines, for his cooperation and for allowing full-page ads with subscription coupons for the SBI REPORT. The SBI will receive one dollar from each subscription generated through these ads.

Plans are also underway for the SBI's own Cable TV programs in New York and New Jersey, which are expected to significantly increase publicity.

New Book Project

The narrator is writing a book about the "1978 abduction of two men while hunting in Indian Lake, New York." The manuscript is currently in a rough stage, and the author is seeking drawings, photos, and transcript excerpts to complete it. The book is expected to be a major seller.

Membership Proposals and Voting

The issue outlines four proposals for the membership, with a ballot provided for voting. The proposals are intended to help the SBI function correctly and are presented with rationalizations for their implementation.

ISSUE #1: SBI REPORT Publication Schedule

It is proposed to reduce the publication frequency of the "SBI REPORT" from monthly to six times a year, with a "SPECIAL COLLECTOR'S ISSUE" at the end of these six issues. This would mean the report would be published every two months, starting in March 1981 (Volume III). This change is motivated by the difficulty, tedium, and expense of monthly production, as well as a lack of sufficient data to fill 50 double-sided pages. The proposal aims to save time, reduce postage and production costs, and produce a more attractive and informative report. The remaining issues of Volume II will continue until February 1981 without interruption.

ISSUE #2: Subscription Rates and Active Member Dues

Subscription rates will remain the same ($12.00 per year, $8.00 for senior citizens and students). However, active members' annual dues are proposed to increase by $3.00 per year, making them $15.00. This increase is justified by the fact that active members receive more benefits, such as the "Step-by-Step" Investigating Manual free of charge, mailings of badges, enrollment cards, and other items.

ISSUE #3: Special Rate Plan for Prepayment

A special rate plan is proposed for members (subscribers and active members) who pre-pay their subscription fees or annual dues in advance, starting January 1, 1981. This plan offers greater savings for active members. The prices for subscribers and active members for 1, 2, 3, 5 years, and lifetime membership are detailed, with savings noted. These prices will be "frozen" for the prepaid period, unaffected by future price increases.

ISSUE #4: Incentive for Obtaining Lectures

Proposed by Director of Public Relations, Elaine Kaiser, this incentive offers members $50.00 for obtaining a lecture for the SBI's International Directors or providing a lead for a lecture that is actually performed. This is presented as a way to generate income for the SBI and reward members.

Voting Instructions

Instructions are provided for members to cast their votes on the four proposals. Only non-paying members are excluded from voting. All SBI members, including Field Investigators, Chief Investigators, Directors, Staff, Consultants, and subscribers, are eligible. Members are instructed to place an "X" in the appropriate box, cut out the ballot, fold it, and mail it with a 15¢ stamp. All ballots must arrive by midnight November 15th, 1980.

More Questions and Answers

This section addresses various questions from members:

• Group vs. Organization: The SBI has over 2000 members in the USA and 94 representatives in 33 foreign countries, along with 50-75 affiliated UFO groups, indicating it is an organization.
• Affiliate Definition: Affiliates support the SBI's goals or exchange literature. They are not listed on the cover to avoid responsibility for their differing opinions.
• Bulk Rate Mailing: The SBI is a non-profit organization in Delaware and New York, but its federal tax-exempt status is pending, requiring them to pay standard postage. They have been advised not to purchase bulk rate permits to show they pay significant mailing costs.
• Consultant Reliance: While the SBI has 128 consultants, at least 50% are considered hypocrites. The narrator and Jim rely more on their own knowledge, computer skills, and psychological backgrounds, though they acknowledge some consultants are valuable.
• Income from Lecturing/Media: Jim and the narrator are paid for their 3-hour lectures, with travel, accommodation, and food prepaid by the sponsor. The lecture salary goes to the SBI, not individuals. There is no payment for radio or TV appearances.
• Collapsing Organization: The SBI, established in January 1979, is nearing its third year and is not in danger of collapsing. They have made new contacts and are gaining recognition.
• Progress in UFOlogy: The SBI has united people globally, introduced new innovations, investigated two major UFO cases in 1980, and written articles. They claim to have confidential material under investigation and anticipate a breakthrough.
• Enemies and Renewals: The SBI acknowledges having enemies, attributing it to jealousy. While some members do not renew subscriptions, many new subscribers enroll, and some become Field Investigators.
• SBI REPORT Cover: A facelift is planned for March 1981, with a new magazine-type cover featuring a UFO and solar eclipse.
• UFO Occupant Hostility: The question of whether UFO occupants are hostile or benevolent is unanswerable, but the existence of UFOs is stated as fact.
• Promotion to Chief Investigator: Promotion is based on showing worthiness, including gaining new members, documenting UFO reports, and taking a strong interest in the SBI and UFO phenomena. Investigators are evaluated annually.
• Other Noted Organizations: The SBI is a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics, National Space Institute, Smithsonian Institute, National Geographic Society, and American Hypnosis Society.
• Joining as a Couple: Couples can join as subscribers for $12.00 per year or as investigators for the price of one, receiving one SBI REPORT or manual but individual ID cards.
• Photo Analysis: Members receive priority for UFO photo analysis. Samples should be mailed certified or registered with a self-addressed stamped envelope.
• Jet Plane: The SBI has access to a jet plane at times when available for responding to UFO sites.
• Salaries: Neither Jim nor the narrator receive a salary from the SBI; they maintain their own full-time jobs and use personal time for SBI activities.
• Family Life: They believe their family lives are not endangered by their UFO research, as their wives are supportive.
• Negative Literature: The SBI views negative publicity as publicity nonetheless, stating "PUBLICITY IS PUBLICITY, NO MATTER WHERE IT COMES FROM OR WHAT IT SAYS."

Editorial Stance and Future Outlook

The editorial emphasizes the importance of the SBI's work in UFOlogy, describing it as a critical need and an adventure. It urges members to actively participate and contribute, stating that inaction is a waste of time. The organization is presented as a place to learn skills and influence the future of UFOlogy. The editorial highlights the dedication of volunteer members who contribute time, energy, and finances, calling them the "backbone" of the organization. It asserts that the SBI is the only UFO organization to devise new methods and incentives, despite some members lacking confidence. The publication is dedicated to rehabilitating a small percentage of the membership who may not be fully engaged. The overall tone is one of determination to prove the existence of UFOs and convince the public, with a call for continued membership support.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the promotion and growth of the SBI, the importance of membership engagement and support, and the ongoing investigation and documentation of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of proactive engagement, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the cause of UFOlogy, despite challenges and criticisms. The organization positions itself as a leader in the field, seeking to educate and convince the public through documented evidence and new approaches. There is a strong emphasis on the democratic process within the organization, as evidenced by the voting on proposals, and a clear call to action for members to contribute to the SBI's mission.

Title: UFO UPDATE!
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 1
Date: 1980
Publisher: Scientific Bureau of Investigation, Inc.
Country: USA
Type: Magazine Issue

Editorial Content

UFO UPDATE! - The Magazine You've Been Waiting For!

This inaugural issue of UFO UPDATE! introduces itself as a quarterly publication dedicated to a serious investigation of the UFO phenomenon. The editorial emphasizes a commitment to uncovering the truth, distinguishing itself from magazines that focus on Hollywood interpretations of UFOs. The Scientific Bureau of Investigation, Inc. (SBI), based in Staten Island, NY, is presented as a new breed of ufologists, founded in 1979 by Pete Mazzola and Jim Fillow, both in their early thirties. They aim to bring new ideas and methods to UFO research, contrasting with older organizations and individuals who have pursued the mystery for decades without definitive answers.

The editorial, written by Jim Fillow, titled "NEW PATHS THROUGH AN OLD FOREST," reflects on the 34 years since Kenneth Arnold's sighting. Fillow expresses frustration with other UFO organizations that he believes hinder serious research by testing the SBI with fraudulent materials or by engaging in harassment. He asserts that the SBI is committed to finding solutions and will not tolerate unproductive members or gossip. Fillow highlights the sacrifices made by himself and Mazzola, including extended periods without sleep during investigations, to pursue the UFO mystery.

The SBI claims significant achievements, including handling major cases in Michigan (involving six police officers) and South Carolina, and gaining recognition through the television show "That's Incredible." The organization is approaching its third anniversary and aims to continue its pursuit of UFO solutions, viewing the mystery as a crucial event for mankind.

Related Publications and Resources

The issue promotes other related publications and resources:

• Beyond Reality: Encourages readers to read an upcoming article by Jim Fillow in this magazine.
• Xenolog: A New Zealand-based UFO quarterly edited by Fred and Phyllis Dickeson. It is described as having a "Scientific Approach to Cosmic Understanding" and is available by subscription or exchange.
• Eden Bulletin: A list of back issues is provided, with titles of articles covering various UFO-related topics, including encounters, cattle mutilations, and the work of Wilhelm Reich. Books by Jerome Eden and Wilhelm Reich are also advertised.
• The Globe: Readers are directed to a November 4, 1980 issue for a full-page story on the SBI's South Carolina sighting.
• Saga UFO Report: An upcoming issue is mentioned for a feature article by the SBI.
• National Enquirer: An upcoming article about the SBI is also noted.
• UFO Information Network: Located in Rome, Ohio, this service offers a large selection of UFO and related material, including catalogues, newsletters, and special reports.

Subscription and Ballot Information

Subscription details for UFO UPDATE! are provided, with rates for one and two years. A ballot is included for readers to vote on several proposals concerning the SBI:

1. Reduce publication frequency: From 12 monthly issues to 6 issues per year, plus a special collector's issue.
2. Increase active member dues: From $12.00 to $15.00 per year, while keeping rates for subscribers, senior citizens, and students the same.
3. Allow special rates: For those who prepay yearly subscription fees or annual dues, with different rates for subscribers, active members, and overseas members.
4. Member incentive: To give any member $50.00 after a lecture performance given by the International Directors that was directly influenced by the member.

Other Content

• Beyond Reality Advertisement: A full-page advertisement for "Beyond Reality" magazine, highlighting its coverage of topics such as lost civilizations, reincarnation, UFOs, strange disappearances, New Age philosophy, ESP, spiritualism, parapsychology, and mythology.
• SBI Mailing Information: A pre-addressed envelope template for mailing correspondence to the SBI.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the serious investigation of UFOs, the establishment and growth of the Scientific Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the promotion of related research and publications. The editorial stance is one of dedication, scientific rigor, and a desire to uncover the truth about the UFO phenomenon, while also expressing frustration with perceived obstacles from other organizations within the ufology community. There is a strong emphasis on the SBI's unique approach and its commitment to its mission, even at personal cost. The magazine also serves as a platform to promote other UFO-related media and research services, fostering a community of interest.

This issue of UFO Investigator, identified as Volume 10, Number 2, from 1980, is published by the Scientific Bureau of Investigation, Inc. The cover prominently features a "FIRST TIME OFFERED" promotion with the question, "Why not a rebate for 1980?" accompanied by a "Gift Certificate" valued at $2.00.

Fund Raising Appeal

The magazine includes a significant section dedicated to "Fund Raising." The Scientific Bureau of Investigation (SBI) outlines its approach, stating it differs from other UFO organizations by not repeatedly asking members for small monthly contributions. Instead, the SBI aims to identify sources from corporate or foundation entities willing to provide substantial donations. These contributions are intended to fund proposed projects and research, with the appeal emphasizing that funding is critical and limited. The organization highlights the benefit to donors, who would receive a tax exemption and a tax shelter from the IRS. The text asserts that there is ample money available from companies eager to donate, and the SBI desperately needs assistance in locating these sources. Readers are urged to look around and inform the SBI of potential donors.

Membership Drive and Gift Certificates

A prominent feature is the "DO IT AGAIN!" campaign, encouraging members to "Renew Your SBI Membership Now." This is further supported by a "FIRST TIME OFFERED" gift certificate promotion. The Scientific Bureau of Investigation, Inc. is offering a gift certificate valued at $2.00 for new membership enrollments. The mechanism explained is that members select a friend, relative, or interested party and provide them with an enrollment card. Upon receipt of the remittance, the SBI will forward a gift certificate to the recommender for each new member enrolled. These certificates can be used towards the member's own dues or subscription fees at renewal time. The message encourages readers to help the organization grow and to "Pick up some awards along the way."

Reminder: "THE CHOICE IS YOURS"

Another section, labeled "REMINDER," titled "THE CHOICE IS YOURS," appeals to readers to mail in any article they see in a newspaper or magazine that references UFO phenomena or a related subject. They are asked to send a copy of the article or the original. The magazine promises full copyright credit to the donor and encourages participation in informing their readers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue's recurring themes revolve around financial sustainability for UFO research and active member participation in expanding the organization's reach and resources. The editorial stance appears to be one of proactive engagement, seeking external funding and leveraging the existing membership base for recruitment and information gathering. The emphasis on gift certificates and tax benefits suggests a business-like approach to organizational growth and donor acquisition.