Kalamazoo Flying Saucer Study Club - No 17

Magazine Overview

Title: The Kalamazoo Flying Saucer Study Club Bulletin
Issue: No. 17
Date: March 1958
Publisher: The Interplanetary Foundation
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the bulletin focuses on two primary themes: a reported UFO sighting and the growing concerns surrounding nuclear fallout from atomic bomb tests.

UFO Sighting and R.O. Schmidt's Testimony

The cover features a detailed sketch of a space ship, described as an "instrument ship," in which R.O. Schmidt reportedly rode near Kearney, Nebraska. The sketch highlights various components, including a transparent hull, instrument panels, fans, and retractable landing pads. The article notes that some areas of the craft were not described by Mr. Schmidt, and the purpose of the fans was not explained. The bulkheads were noted as having no visible openings and were not transparent.

Schmidt's talk in Kalamazoo on February 28th, 1958, is referenced, and the bulletin poses three questions that were allegedly asked by the occupants of the craft. These questions pertained to:
1. How the U.S. would react to other planets launching satellites that interfere with Earth's communications and devices, and the implications of atomic bombs.
2. The nature of an airplane that disintegrated over the Pacific Ocean in November, besides its passengers.
3. How people would react if a fleet of these ships landed with a friendly mission, and whether they would be accepted.

Mr. Schmidt is quoted as wanting to hear from readers regarding these questions. Contact information for Reirhold Schmidt in Bakersfield, California, is provided.

Nuclear Fallout and Atomic Testing Concerns

A significant portion of the bulletin is dedicated to the dangers of nuclear fallout from atomic bomb tests. The article, titled "A FALLING OUT" WITH "THE FALL OUT," describes an "invisible blanket of strontium 90" descending upon mankind. It cites the "Bulletin of The Atomic Scientist," stating that accidental radiation cases indicate fallout has already caused blood cancer, bone cancer, genetic deviation, and complete sterility.

The bulletin argues that the U.S. and Soviet Union possess enough super bombs to obliterate the Earth and questions the continuation of testing. It asserts that "THERE MUST BE AN END TO IT!" The contamination of grass by strontium 90, which can transfer to dairy cows and create calcium deficiency in bones, is highlighted. The article emphasizes that radiation can fall on fruits and vegetables, posing a risk to daily consumption.

Children are identified as particularly vulnerable to the "deadly product of the bomb." The bulletin mentions President Eisenhower's attempts to negotiate a test ban with the Soviet Union and quotes Dr. Edward Teller, who stated that the "final decision regarding the testing and development of more powerful nuclear devises rests with the people."

Concerns are raised about the Atomic Energy Commission's (AEC) safety standards, with scientific judgment suggesting that the amount of radioactive material injected into the stratosphere should not exceed ten megatons a year. The bulletin questions why the AEC, the government agency responsible for atomic energy, would keep the American people in the dark about these facts. It cites statements from former AEC Commissioner Murray, who called the "Strontium 90 hazard is a real danger," and Dr. Linus Pauling, a Nobel prize-winning biochemist, who stated, "There is no safe amount of radiation."

Secrecy and Public Action

The bulletin criticizes the "double talk" and "jabber-de-wock" surrounding nuclear information, suggesting that even those connected with the nuclear program contradict each other. It questions who is behind the "SECRECY" and if democratic rights to know are being lost.

To combat this confusion, the bulletin urges readers to write courteous and intelligent letters to their local Congressmen, Senators, and representatives. These letters should advocate for stopping atomic tests and amending House Resolutions Bill No. 9901 to include a phrase that stops atomic testing and further studies on interplanetary relations, while also stopping the secrecy on UFOs.

Club Information and New Additions

The bulletin includes a "FOR YOUR REFERENCE" section listing key personnel of The Kalamazoo Flying Saucer Study Club (KFSSC), including Chairman Bill Maier, Program Chairman John Brinson, Secretary-Treasurer Rae Simbulan, Librarian Ramiro Besada, Tape Librarian Rob Lowell, and Editor Hilda Buck, along with their contact information.

A "NEW ADDITIONS TO TAPE LIBRARY" section announces new programs available, including "Aho-Schmidt - Feb. 28, 1958" and a "Mike Wallace-Keyhoe Interview - Mar. 16, 1958."

Upcoming Meeting and NICAP Support

The "NEXT MEETING" is scheduled for March 28th and will include a discussion of the group's policies, future programming, Mr. Schmidt's three questions, the next Federation convention, and the latest news. The meeting is to be held at the Crosstown Parkway Branch of the First National Bank at 8:00 P.M.

The bulletin also expresses the need for representation in Washington and urges support for NICAP (National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena). Readers are encouraged to write to NICAP for information about their memberships and publications on UFO sightings. Major Donald E. Keyhoe, ret., is identified as NICAP's director.

New Books and Researcher Attention

New books added to the library include "The Expanding Case for the UFO" by M. K. Jessup, "The Flying Saucer Conspiracy" by Major Donald E. Keyhoe, and "Inside the Space Ships" by George Adamski.

A "RESEARCHERS ATTENTION!!!" section prompts readers to try 7:00 A.M. Drive-In-Banking at Crosstown Parkway and mention the KFSSC Bulletin if they saw it advertised.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO phenomena and the critical examination of nuclear testing and its consequences. The editorial stance is one of concern regarding the potential dangers of nuclear fallout, a call for transparency from government agencies, and an encouragement for public engagement in political action to address these issues. The bulletin advocates for a cessation of atomic testing and increased openness regarding UFO information.