Spacecrafter - 1960 11 - November to December

Magazine Overview

Title: SPACE CRAFTER
Issue: Vol.III, No.4
Date: November-December 1960
Publisher: Spacecraft Research Association
Location: Phoenix, Arizona, USA

This issue of SPACE CRAFTER, the publication of the Spacecraft Research Association, offers a diverse range of articles and updates relevant to its members interested in UFOs, space exploration, mysticism, and new age philosophies. The magazine features news about the association's activities, lectures, and member updates, alongside articles exploring various phenomena and concepts.

Announcements and Association News

The "ANNOUNCING" section on page 3 details upcoming events, including the regular monthly meeting of the S.R.A. on December 16th at the Odd Fellows Hall in Phoenix, which will include the election of officers. Two recordings, "Exploring the Inner Universe" and "Out of time into Eternity" by Drs. Robert and Earlyre Chaney, were scheduled to be played. A notice also mentions that Julia Peterson is a patient at Memorial Hospital and is receiving visitors. The "WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS!!" section lists several individuals who have recently joined the association.

Regular monthly meetings are to be held on the third Friday of each month at the Odd Fellows Hall, with January 20th and February 17th noted as future dates. The "!!! LECTURES!!!" section highlights recent presentations. Kelvin Rowe spoke on October 29, 1960, about his personal experiences with spacecraft and space beings. On November 19th, Major Wayne Aho, Director of Washington Saucer Intelligence, Inc., presented his personal sightings and experiences with photographs of craft in flight to a spellbound audience.

President's Message

Agnes Sanborn, the President, extends Christmas Greetings in her message. She reflects on the past year as rewarding, attributing accomplishments to the sincere efforts of members and friends. She thanks members for their support, mentions the increase in memberships, and highlights radio and TV time granted to the S.R.A. Sanborn also shares her experience of being invited to speak to college students and a Methodist Youth group through the JOE PYNE PROGRAM, which generated interest and led to further lecture requests. She emphasizes the importance of continued cooperation and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve as president, looking forward to the launch of a "new age."

Meeting Summaries

Summaries of the October and November meetings are provided. The October meeting, held at Esther Frank's home on October 21st, included guests and was followed by an open discussion. The November "meeting" was a special event at Radio Station KUPD on November 18th, featuring Major Wayne Aho on the JOE PYNE SHOW. This was followed by a social gathering at President Agnes Sanborn's home, with Major Aho as the guest of honor. Agnes Sanborn presented a report of the club's activities.

New Age Concepts

An article titled "New Age Concepts" by Robert J. Ridley discusses the idea of non-violence and vegetarianism. It quotes Dr. Anna Kingsford, John Wesley, and Leonardo da Vinci, among others, who advocated for a diet free from flesh, wine, and tobacco. The article suggests that a "Vegetarian New Age" requires individuals to renounce preying on animals, linking it to a higher spiritual path and the concept of "the lion shall lay down with the lamb."

Mailbag and Media Mentions

The "MAILBAG" section includes a report from "The Little Listening Post" about a puzzling red glowing object observed by Uni Observatories. Another mention is from "This Week Magazine" (December 4, 1960) featuring an article titled "Are Space Ships Obsolete?" which discusses the possibility of life on other planets and suggests radio signals for communication.

"Theories Abound Over Glow In Sky"

This Associated Press article from November 24, 1960, discusses a mysterious glow observed in the sky over the Midwest and Eastern United States. Explanations offered include military chaff used in radar jamming exercises, a high-altitude weather balloon from the University of Michigan (cooperating with Tiros II), and phenomena caused by the sun's rays reflecting off the chaff. The article notes that hours later, even after an Air Force inquiry, there was no unanimous opinion on the cause, with some witnesses interpreting the light as a rocket, flying saucer, or satellite.

"4000 Years of Christmas"

Authored by Herman L. Hoeh, this article challenges the traditional understanding of Christmas. It claims that Christmas was celebrated by pagans 2000 years before Christ and was not observed by the early Christian Church until centuries later. The article asserts that pagan Romans called December 25th the "Brumalia" or birthday of the new sun and that early Catholics viewed Christmas celebrations as idolatrous. It promotes a free 16-page booklet titled "The PLAIN TRUTH about CHRISTMAS!" for further details.

"Look Up to The Sky" (Poem)

This poem by Dennis Magnus expresses a sense of awe and wonder about the stars and the vastness of space. It touches upon feelings of despair regarding God's perceived indifference and the coldness of the celestial vault. The poem then shifts to a contemplation of humanity's struggles and the growing global tension. A profound realization emerges: "The earth will be saved by men in Space Ships!" The poet concludes that this thought offers hope and that God's purpose will ultimately prevail.

"Rural Europe Still Hunts Witches"

This article by Karl Heinz Mack reports on the continued prevalence of witchcraft beliefs in rural Europe, contrasting it with the global focus on satellite spotting. It cites numerous cases involving witchcraft in Germany, including accusations against exorcists and instances of murder and suicide linked to superstitions. The article mentions the popularity of "black magic" books and the influence of the "Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses."

"Americans Reported Closing Space Gap"

This UPI report from December 4, 1960, discusses the United States' position in the space race. Dr. T. Keith Glennan, head of NASA, acknowledges that the U.S. had lost stature due to its lag behind the Russians in spectacular space projects but states that the U.S. is now regaining it. The article mentions the Echo communications balloon and the development of heavy-thrust rockets, with NASA planning to test the Centaur rocket capable of launching significant payloads. It also outlines NASA's man-in-space project timeline, aiming for a test flight early the following year.

"Citadel Of Judean Kings Uncovered Near Jerusalem"

This AP report from October 3, 1960, details the discovery of a royal citadel near Jerusalem, dating back almost 3,000 years. Directed by Dr. Yohanan Aharoni, the diggings revealed a citadel built about 800 years before Christ, with walls constructed of large ashlars. The site is located on a hill at Ramat Rachel.

"Radiation Protection Plan Urged"

A congressional group's report, released on November 21, 1960, urges "important and urgent" decisions regarding radiation protection, particularly in light of developments in nuclear space rockets, satellite power plants, and atomic-powered aircraft. The report highlights confusion among experts regarding responsibility for protection standards and their meaning. Subcommittee Chairman Holifield called for a re-examination of the Federal Radiation Council's role.

"Space Signal Policy Urged"

This report from December 4, 1960, states that Vice President-elect Lyndon B. Johnson urged the United States to preserve its lead in bouncing radio and television signals off space satellites, endorsing recommendations from the committee on aeronautical and space sciences.

"Nerve Discoveries Will Aid Research"

An article by Alton Blakeslee from November 10, 1960, discusses new findings from 20-year studies on nerve mechanisms. Scientists at Columbia University have described how acetylcholine generates electricity in nerves and have isolated a protein involved in this process. The research could lead to safer local anesthetics and aid in understanding diseases like palsy and myasthenia gravis.

"Mirror of Your Mind"

This piece by Joseph Whitney addresses spiritual healing, stating that while difficult to prove, it is not unfounded. It suggests that faith and prayer can stimulate spiritual forces that promote natural healing, and conversely, fear can aggravate illness. The author posits that courage and peace of mind can have a healing effect.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SPACE CRAFTER include the investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), with reports on sightings and expert opinions. There is a strong emphasis on "New Age" concepts, promoting spiritual growth, non-violence, and alternative lifestyles, particularly vegetarianism. The magazine also engages with historical and religious topics, questioning established narratives, such as the origins of Christmas. Scientific advancements in space exploration and nerve research are presented, alongside the persistent belief in the occult, such as witchcraft. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging exploration of unconventional ideas and phenomena, while also promoting the Spacecraft Research Association's activities and its members' interests in these diverse subjects.

This document appears to be a collection of mailbag entries, advertisements, and a book list from a publication likely focused on UFOs and related phenomena, possibly from late 1960. The content includes reports of sightings, membership information, and a spiritual invocation.

Mailbag Contributions

Mysterious Object in the Heavens The first mailbag entry references an article in *Life Magazine* from September 1960 titled "Mysterious Object in the Heavens - a 'Wrong-Way Russian Satellite?'". The article described an object traveling from east to west that neither the U.S. nor Russia would claim. The writer questions if this object might be the same one seen at Esther Frank's potluck on August 26th.

Strange Objects in S.D. Sky A report from the *College of Knowledge News Letter*, Vol. #31, dated November 1960, details an event in Aberdeen, South Dakota, on Wednesday, October 26, 1960. Two strange objects, described as having an appearance resembling big spaceships, were seen chasing each other in the sky over Winner, South Dakota. Dave Dodd, chief engineer for radio station KWYR, along with two or three other early risers, witnessed these objects around 4:45 AM in a Winner parking lot. Dodd stated the objects were "brighter and bigger than any star or satellite" and "flashed across very fast from North to South." He further commented, "They were out of this world in appearance." The report notes that there were no news reports about new satellite launchings by the United States or any other nation at that time.

Advertisements and Membership

Agnes Sanborn's Postcard Reproductions An advertisement on page 11, titled "ATTENTION ! !", informs readers that Agnes Sanborn has available postcard reproductions of a "world renowned snapshot" she took in California in 1957, depicting a flying saucer in cloud formation. The prices are 10 cents each, 3 for 25 cents, or 12 for $1.00, and orders can be placed directly with her.

Spacecraft Research Association Membership Also on page 11, a "Membership Application" is presented for the "Spacecraft Research Association," located at 1516 E. Griswold Road, Phoenix, Arizona. Potential members are asked to fill out the application and indicate their enclosed dues for one year. Options include "Forum Division ($6.00)" and "Associate Division ($3.00)". The form also has fields for "Renewal" or "New" membership, name, phone, and address.

Emery's Health Food Store An advertisement for "Emery's Health Food Store" in Windsor, Illinois, offers "VITAMINS" and "HERBS," specializing in "SPECIAL FOODS FOR SPECIAL DIETS." Their hours are 11 to 6.

Sun Spiritualist Camp An advertisement for "SUN SPIRITUALIST CAMP" in Tonopah, Arizona, states that services are held every Sunday and provides a phone number for information: YE 9-6233.

Vic Curtis A small advertisement or notice features "Vic Curtis AM6-9131" with the phrase "There, but for the grace of C to C, go I."

Books Available from Our Library Page 3 lists a comprehensive selection of books available from the "Spacecraft Research Association" library. The list includes titles such as:

• Mucousless Diet Healing System - Prof. Arnold Ehrets
• Life in the World Unseen - Anthony (2 Vols.)
• Flying Saucers and the Straight Line Mystery - Aime Michel
• Many Shall be Called - Marke Norman
• Soaring of the Eagle - John McCoy
• Many Wonderful Things - Robert W. Huffman
• UNDERSTANDING Yearbook 1958
• Return of the Dove - Margaret Storm
• The Doctor from Shasa - T. Lobsang Rampa
• The Voice of Venus - Ernest Norman
• Masters of the Path - C. W. Leadbeater
• Kabah - Robert B. Stacy-Judd
• Two Nights to Remember - Carl A. Anderson
• Son of the Sun - Orpheo Angelucci
• Gospel Light - George M. Lamsa
• Aboard a Flying Saucer - Truman Bethurum
• Man Who Tapped the Secrets of the Universe - Glenn Clark
• Call at Dawn - Kelvin Rowe
• Life in the World Unseen - Anthony Borgia
• Secret Places of the Lion - George H. Williamson
• Flying Saucers: Top Secret - Donald Keyhoe
• Into this World and Out Again - George Van Tassel
• My Contact with Flying Saucers - Dino Kraspedon
• Journey into the Light - "Pensatia"
• Road in the Sky - George Hunt Williamson
• Other Tongues - Other Flesh - George Hunt Williamson
• Why are we Here? - Gloria Lee
• UFO's Confidential - George Hunt Williamson
• Steps to the Stars - Daniel W. Fry
• Twenty Trillion Light Years Through Space - Leo Virg
• The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ - Levi
• The Third Eye - T. Lobsang Rampa
• The Inexplicable Sky - Arthur Constance
• A Dweller on Two Planets - Phylos
• The Secret of the Saucers - Orfeo Angelucci
• U.F.O. - M. K. Jessup
• Over the Threshold - Dana Howard
• The Council of the Seven Lights - George Van Tassel
• Life and Teaching of the Masters of Far East - Spaulding

The list also includes a note to "GIVE BOOKS FOR THAT SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GIFT!" and provides contact information for Florence Agnew at YE 9-6233.

Invocation An "INVOCATION" is presented, asking all members and friends of "The Circle of Three" to join others in daily repeating a "Space Age Invocation": "LET THE NOTE OF MAN'S LIFE AND THAT OF HIS EARTH SOUND HARMONY THROUGH THE SPHERES OF THE SYSTEM."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this document are UFO sightings, unexplained aerial phenomena, and the promotion of related literature and organizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of interest and investigation into these subjects, as evidenced by the publication of mailbag reports and the existence of the Spacecraft Research Association. There is also an undercurrent of spiritual or philosophical exploration, as suggested by the invocation and the types of books offered.