Baton Rouge UFO Bulletin - 1957 11

Magazine Overview

This document is the November 1957 issue of the "BATON ROUGE UFO BULLETIN," published by the NORTH JERSEY U. F. O. GROUP. It is sponsored by the Recreation and Park Commission and focuses on UFO sightings, satellite news, and related phenomena.

Satellite News and Public Reaction

The bulletin opens by presenting a collection of newspaper headlines from the "MORNING ADVOCATE" (October 15, 1957) regarding the satellite, likely referring to Sputnik. These headlines cover a range of reactions and implications, from the possibility of missile defenses being discarded and the satellite spurring religion, to concerns about Soviet capabilities and scientific conferences. The author notes that the satellite's presence is unavoidable, appearing on almost every general news section page. A significant point is raised about a scientist, Dr. J. Allen Hynek of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, who detected an "unknown force" affecting the satellite's course and speed, with reports of infra-red rays preceding it. The author expresses skepticism about the idea that the satellite could be used for germ warfare, finding the notion of a satellite accurately discharging germs onto a specific state through the jet stream incredible.

Venusian Contact and Robert Ewing's Claims

The bulletin then shifts to a report from the "MORNING ADVOCATE" (October 18, 1957) about people on Venus supposedly keeping watch on Earth. This is linked to a new spiritualist group allegedly receiving telepathic messages from Venusians. Rev. Dr. William Hubbard criticizes these claims, stating that reports must be "proved" and that he finds accepting telepathic messages from Venus easier than spirit messages. The article introduces Robert Ewing of Florida, described as the originator of a "new contact" between Venus and Earth. Ewing, a psychology graduate and former commercial pilot, claims to have learned information telepathically. His claims include:

1. Eight large platforms circling Earth at 10,000 miles, invisible due to light-bending technology.
2. Space ships from these bases have been observing Earth for four years, originating from 462-foot "mother ships" hovering over the southeastern U.S. at 15 miles altitude.
3. Venusians are described as tall, fine-featured, worshipping God, believing in life after death, and living for four to five hundred years.
4. Their original purpose was to halt air pollution by atomic tests, using "green fireballs" as counter-action.
5. Their intentions are benevolent, but they will "slap down" any atomic rocket or missile fired for war.
6. They allowed the Russian satellite to remain up because it carried no warhead, but they are affecting its orbit and slowing it down with magnetism.
7. They believe humanity is intellectually aroused enough not to be driven to hysteria by landings, which they plan to begin at selected sites in November.
8. Visits will increase, ushering in a "new age" by 1962.
9. Venusians have conquered disease, are clairvoyant, understand others' thoughts, and transmit news at 50,000 words per minute.

The author notes that Ewing has tape recordings of conversations with Venusians, channeled through Enid Brady, minister of the First Spiritual Church in Daytona Beach, who enters a trance. The author expresses disappointment that Ewing did not explain why he was initially a skeptic and what convinced him.

Missile Threat Analysis

The bulletin then returns to the topic of missiles, particularly the ICBM. The author argues that while the ICBM is a concern, the more immediate and cheaper threat comes from submarine-launched missiles. Russia is known to have many submarines and is ahead in rocket development. The author posits that it would be more efficient for Russia to use short or mid-range missiles from submarines to attack the U.S. coastlines, with just twenty submarines potentially capable of devastating large areas. The bulletin emphasizes the need for a warning system to detect missiles and anti-missile missiles to intercept them. It also discusses the strategic air command's ability to retaliate and the potential effectiveness of the B-58 Hustler bomber, noting its speed and the challenges of interception due to heat limitations.

UFO Sightings and Phenomena

A report from October 25, 1957, details a mysterious "cobweb-like substance" falling from the sky in Eastern New Mexico, described as "angel hair." An engineer from Sandia Weapons Base attributed this to dust particles high in the atmosphere creating static charges. The bulletin poses questions about why the particles formed as cobwebs and why they didn't disintegrate upon grounding.

Another headline from October 29, 1957, mentions "JET PILOTS GET CHOW IN TUBED LIKE TOOTHPASTE," which the author comments on, noting its similarity to World War II rations.

The bulletin then discusses the political implications of the missile program, referencing columnist Drew Pearson's revelations about the U.S. having six satellites ready before Sputnik, which were allegedly shelved. This is followed by a discussion of inter-service rivalries and inefficiencies in the U.S. missile program, citing the delays and perceived lack of progress compared to the Soviet Union. The author questions the wisdom of sidelining scientists like Oppenheimer and suggests a need for a "referee team" of scientists to oversee the services.

Gravity Research and UFO Reports

An item from the "WONDERFUL IF TRUE DEPARTMENT" introduces Otis T. Carr, who claims to lead a group in Baltimore that has "harnessed gravity" using "free energy circular foil." Carr asserts that his machine can produce continuous power without dissipation and can be adapted to devices of any size. The author notes that neither Carr nor his associates have formal education in science or engineering, but acknowledges the potential for truth from unexpected sources.

Colonel Robert Emerson requests information about live drawings on gravity that were lent out and not returned. The bulletin then reports on a surge of UFO activity in the Baton Rouge area, with three saucers sighted in one week. Colonel Emerson's wife observed a perfect circle object that dropped sharply and disappeared. The author also reports seeing two objects: a small, round, golden, metallic object, and a larger, illuminated body with a yellowish-red blinking light that traveled at high speed and made a ninety-degree turn. The author notes the object's silence, contrasting it with the sound of a propeller plane.

Contact information is provided for John B. Thompson in Baton Rouge for anyone with UFO sightings. Sightings are also mentioned around Levelland, Texas, involving motors killed and lights dimmed. The author speculates that these phenomena might be related to electromagnetic interference.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin concludes by noting the success of their last UFO forum meeting, indicating a growing public acceptance and a shift in attitude towards UFOs. The author expresses satisfaction that the public is finally paying attention. The overall stance of the bulletin is one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, skepticism towards official explanations, and a critical view of government and military handling of the space and missile programs. There is a clear interest in extraterrestrial contact and unconventional scientific theories, as evidenced by the coverage of Venusian messages and gravity research.