Kalamazoo Flying Saucer Study Club - No 15

Magazine Overview

Title: THE KALAMAZOO FLYING SAUCER STUDY CLUB BULLETIN
Issue: NO. 15
Date: January 1958
Publisher: The Kalamazoo Flying Saucer Study Club
Country: USA
Language: English

Editorial Changes and Content

This issue marks a significant change in editorial leadership. Bill Maier, the outgoing editor, announces that he is stepping down to become the associate editor. Taking over the helm as editor is Hilda Buck, the former secretary, who has returned from California. She will be assisted by a new bulletin staff including Norm Smothers (production), Rae Simbulan (circulation), and Ed Hinckley (art illustration and reporters). The bulletin is actively seeking news clippings from out-of-town newspapers and photos of UFOs or flying saucers, emphasizing that out-of-town papers often carry news not repeated by newswire services. They prefer clear photos for letterpress reproduction but are interested in any Michigan-taken photos for their bulletin board. The club is also appealing for help in finding a permanent office and workshop space, describing their financial limitations and the need for a space that can accommodate a mimeograph machine and an assembly table.

This issue is the last to be sent to individuals who have not indicated their desire to continue receiving the bulletin, with the next meeting serving as the deadline for such requests.

Upcoming Meetings and Events

The January 24th meeting is scheduled to cover recent UFO news, including the Adrian, Michigan, and Ohio "flaps" as discussed at a Detroit meeting regarding withheld UFO information. The meeting will also feature a report on the first daylight sighting of a solid dark object in the vicinity by a club member, and a review of the book "Flying Saucer Pilgrimage."

A board meeting was held on January 6th, resulting in the discontinuation of the "hostess" position as a board function. Joyce Mainous will now serve as co-hostess with Pat Kuplicki. Additionally, Norm Smothers will take on the newly created responsibility of a board member in charge of publicity.

UFOs Not Taken Lightly by Michigan's Representatives

This section compiles excerpts from replies received by the Detroit U.F.O. Research Group from Michigan's senators and congressmen. The research group, led by Alan P. Rowe, had written to these officials, asserting that the U.S. Air Force was withholding information on unidentified flying objects and calling for a serious consideration of UFO investigations by governmental agencies other than the Air Force.

• Responses included:
• Thaddeus M. Machrowicz (Rep., Fifth District): Expressed interest and pledged to do everything possible to ensure the public is more informed when Congress reconvenes.
• John D. Dingell (Rep., 15th District): Appreciated the group's views and referred the matter to the Department of Defense.
• Martha W. Griffiths (Rep., 17th District): Acknowledged the letter concerning the withholding of information and appreciated being called upon to help release it.
• Senator Charles E. Potter: Appreciated the information and requested a report from appropriate authorities, indicating a belief that the problem should be reviewed by the Committee on Armed Services.
• Senator Pat. McNamara: Stated that while he does not scoff at those with serious interest, he has asked the Air Force and found no attempt to "cover up," but rather a lack of tangible evidence. He affirmed the Air Force's continued investigation.
• John Lesinski (Rep., 16th District): Contacted the House Subcommittee on Government Information and enclosed a copy of their reply.
• John E. Moss (Chairman, House Government Information Subcommittee): Acknowledged the comments and stated that the subcommittee has intensified its study of scientific and technological information, though it was unlikely to include UFOs specifically.
• Charles C. Diggs, Jr. (Rep., 13th District): Expressed interest and assured close follow-up, enclosing a "Fact Sheet" from the Department of Defense on the Air Force's 10-Year Study of Unidentified Flying Objects.

The bulletin encourages readers to write to their elected officials if they feel letters are being dismissed, emphasizing the importance of public input in guiding government actions.

"Frankly Speaking: Let's Take a Good Look in the Mirror"

This editorial, attributed to Al David, staff reporter-VISITOR, urges "saucer fans" to critically examine their beliefs and the ideas they express. It questions whether they are wisely listening to "truths" from "space brothers" without proper discrimination. The author highlights the social pressure and tension of modern life, suggesting that occasional mental escape through imagination can be beneficial, but warns against letting daydreams override common sense. The piece cautions against becoming so immersed in the idea of utopian worlds and "benevolent space brothers" that individuals lose their individuality, sense of balance, and fail to address their own problems. It advocates for looking inward, taking stock of oneself, and making an honest effort to solve personal shortcomings before engaging with beings from other worlds.

Flying Saucers on TV and New Book Review

An announcement is made about a program on flying saucers to be presented by the Armstrong Circle Theater on Jan. 22nd, airing on WKZO TV at 10:00 P.M. The bulletin notes that several TV shows have recently used flying saucers as a basis for their programs, including "Mystery Theater," "Jack Diamond Detective," and "Phil Silver's Show."

A new book, "Inside Saucer Post...3-0 Blue" by Leonard H. Stringfield, is reviewed. Published by CRIFO, it reportedly opens the organization's files on its "saucer post" operations. The book is described as an essential primer for those interested in UFOs, covering controversial topics and offering a candid review of "silenced" issues related to a "new and strange cold war." The chapter titles are listed, and the book is available for $2.50 from Civilian Research, Interplanetary Flying Objects in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Support and Distribution

The bulletin states that it is supported by voluntary contributions and labor and is sent for notification of meetings and new developments. It is mailed to those within driving distance of Kalamazoo who wish to attend meetings. Individuals who do not attend or show sufficient interest after several months will be removed from the mailing list. The bulletin is not intended for general, national, or international distribution but rather to supplement existing publications. Material borrowed from other publications is acknowledged, and the bulletin is sent out on an exchange basis with other publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin reflects a strong interest in UFO phenomena, with a focus on news dissemination, public information, and the investigation of UFOs. There is a clear stance advocating for greater transparency from governmental agencies, particularly the U.S. Air Force, regarding UFO information. The editorial content, especially the "Frankly Speaking" piece, also emphasizes critical thinking, self-reliance, and the importance of maintaining a balance between imagination and reality when considering the UFO phenomenon. The club appears to be an active local group with regular meetings and a commitment to sharing information and engaging with its members and the wider community on the topic of UFOs.