UFO magazine

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO magazine
Issue: Volume 4, Number 1
Date: January, 1967

This issue of UFO Magazine addresses a hiatus in publication and announces changes in format and subscription rates. The editorial team, including Editors Rick Hilberg and Karl Gawell, Associate Editor Jane L. Ransom, and Business Manager Edward M. Biebel, apologizes for the delay and explains the shift to a monthly newsletter format to provide more frequent information. The larger, photo-offset magazine will now be published twice yearly. To cover increased costs, the subscription rate is raised to two dollars per year, with a special renewal offer for existing subscribers.

Editorial: Changes and the Congress of Scientific Ufologists

The editorial section details the reasons for the publication's absence and its new format. It also introduces Janie L. Ransom as a new co-editor, noting her engagement to Editor Hilberg, and expresses hope for their success in Ufology.

A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to addressing rumors concerning the upcoming Congress of Scientific Ufologists (CSU). The magazine expresses concern that the CSU might degenerate into a 'contactee convention' similar to those in California. However, it acknowledges the CSU's accomplishments over its three years, particularly the 'Congress Concept' initiated by Allen Greenfield, which has been deemed a success. The editorial mentions the establishment of a 'Code of Ethics' in 1965, the passing of the 'Resolution for A Better NICAP' in 1966, and the important 'Project Greyfile' initiative.

The rumors circulating about the 1967 CSU, to be held in New York City from June 23-25, seem to stem from a minor argument at the 1965 Congress regarding the inclusion of 'contactee fringe' members. The editorial recounts an incident at the 1966 Congress where a contactee group led by Laura Mundo arrived early and did not pay the admission fee, attempting to gain access to closed sessions by claiming to be press.

Further issues raised include concerns about appointments of advisors to the CSU without committee approval and speakers at the Open Session who may not contribute significantly to scientific Ufology. UFO Magazine states it will remain neutral ('sitting on the fence') until the organizers of the 1967 Congress provide explanations.

Two suggestions are made to the Congress committee: first, to establish a newsletter to keep member groups informed about CSU facets, including Project Greyfile; and second, to consistently use the name 'Congress of Scientific Ufologists' in all advertising, avoiding lesser titles or referring to it as 'somebody's convention'. The magazine hopes these issues will be resolved by June and that the focus will remain on promoting scientific UFO investigation.

Adamski and Aristotle

Author: Janie Ransom

This article explores the philosophical parallels between George Adamski's concept of 'natural elimination' or 'survival of the fittest' and Aristotle's Scala Naturae (Scale of Nature). Ransom, while admitting her limited proficiency in philosophy, draws connections from Gray Barker's book on Adamski. She explains Aristotle's Scala Naturae as an evolutionary scale used to understand the problem of Reality amidst constant change. Adamski's 'natural elimination' is presented as a rudimentary approximation of this scale.

Ransom suggests that Adamski, like many figures presenting 'good' ideas, may have relied on scriptures, but in a way that is 'bizarre' and 'near unacceptability'. She notes that Adamski allegedly dictated his writings, but the ideas were his. She speculates that his claims might have been a form of parable, and despite not being a fan, she believes it is time to look for some redeeming quality in Adamski, emphasizing that 'Face value isn't everything'.

A Small Step Forward

Author: Karl Gawell

Karl Gawell announces the formation of a civilian scientific investigation organization, to be conducted through the auspices of CAPIC (Cleveland Aerial Phenomena Investigations Club). This initiative stems from a perceived lack of proper scientific study into UFOs and the government's 'scientific' investigation at the University of Colorado, which Professor McDonald of the University of Arizona reportedly doubts will yield public results, citing a memorandum suggesting the CIA, not the Air Force, is in charge.

Gawell aims to establish a board that is neither pro nor con, focusing on three purposes: initiating civilian scientific UFO investigations, forming a central organization for UFO research and dissemination, and exploring UFO practicability and propulsion, along with publishing findings. He emphasizes the need for cooperation from individuals and UFO groups, and crucially, from professional personnel willing to dedicate about two hours a month to sighting analysis and research.

The organization will focus on a few good, recent sightings, viewing it as a 'small step forward'. Interested individuals are encouraged to write to UFO Magazine for further information.

Notice to Members of CAPIC

This section announces that CAPIC will cooperate with UFO Magazine, and the magazine's newsletter will replace the CAPIC Newsletter. The policies of both organizations are described as similar, with many shared members and officers. The merger aims to consolidate efforts to promote Ufology and ensure information reaches the readership. Further details about UFO Magazine and its bi-annual publication are elsewhere in the newsletter. Inquiries regarding CAPIC should be directed to the CAPIC office.

Thomas L. Nealings is listed as Special Assistant, and Edward M. Biebel as President of CAPIC.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the operational and organizational challenges within the ufology community, particularly concerning the Congress of Scientific Ufologists (CSU). The magazine adopts a cautious and neutral stance, emphasizing the need for transparency and scientific rigor. It highlights the tension between scientific investigation and the 'contactee fringe' within ufology. The editorial also underscores the importance of clear communication and organization, as evidenced by the suggestions for a CSU newsletter and consistent branding. The shift to a more frequent newsletter format signals a commitment to keeping readers informed amidst these developments.