Steamshovel Press - Issue 13

Magazine Overview

Title: Popular Alienation: A Steamshovel Press Reader
Issue: #13
Date: Summer 1995
Publisher: IllumiNet Press
Editor: Kenn Thomas

This volume, "Popular Alienation: A Steamshovel Press Reader," is presented as Steamshovel Press #13, but it is noted that it did not appear as a standalone magazine. Instead, it functions as a chapter within a back-issue anthology, compiling material from that anthology that was not previously published in magazine form by Steamshovel Press. The publication is edited by Kenn Thomas and published by IllumiNet Press, with a copyright in 1995 by Kenn Thomas.

Introduction

The introduction by Kenn Thomas delves into the origins and philosophy behind Steamshovel Press. It begins by referencing Allen Ginsberg's premonition of the Kennedy assassination, found in his "Journals Early Fifties Early Sixties." This serves to connect disparate elements that might seem unrelated, such as political assassinations, the Beats, UFOs, and conspiracies, under the umbrella of Steamshovel Press's focus.

Thomas recounts how the inspiration for Steamshovel began during a week-long party Allen Ginsberg threw at the University of Colorado in Boulder in 1982, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the publication of Kerouac's "On The Road." This event, organized by the Naropa Institute, brought together figures like Tim Leary, Abbie Hoffman, William Burroughs, Gregory Corso, and others from the Beat generation. It was at this conference that Thomas met Roy Lisker, a long-time contributor to Steamshovel Press, who was then producing a newsletter called "Ferment!".

The introduction also touches upon the media's tendency to pair "conspiracy" with "theory" to diminish the assertions of researchers. Thomas argues that Steamshovel contributors, while offering theories, carefully document them with verifiable facts and references. The magazine aims to provide an unfiltered voice to its contributors, reflecting a commitment to individual insight and expression.

Content Overview

The reader is structured as a collection of articles and interviews drawn from various issues of Steamshovel Press, spanning from #4 (1992) to #13 (1995). The content is diverse, covering a wide array of topics often associated with alternative research and counter-cultural thought.

Key Recurring Themes and Sections:

• JFK Redux: This is a prominent and recurring section, featuring numerous articles and interviews that re-examine the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Topics include the magic bullet theory, the roles of various figures like Richard Nixon, George Bush, Howard Hughes, Aristotle Onassis, and Sherman Skolnick, as well as interviews with figures like A.J. Weberman, Deborah Davis, and Gerald Posner.
• Saucer Section: This section is dedicated to UFO sightings, theories, and related phenomena. It includes articles on topics such as the "Octopus Conspiracy," "Uncharted Areas of Space and Science" (an interview with Stanton Friedman), "Winged Cats, Mothmen and UFOs," "UFOs and Fugos," "Secret Research On Antigravity and Space Flight Organized by the German Secret Societies During World War II," and "Black Cars At Night: The Men in Black Reanimated."
• Conspiracies and Politics: Many articles delve into various conspiracy theories related to government, secret societies, and historical events. Examples include "Black Holes and the Trilateral Commission," "The Kabbalah Papers," "The Vatican's Alliance With Reagan," "Conspiracies-United States," "Phillip K. Dick and the Illuminati," and "Conspiracy in the Clinton Era."
• Counter-Culture and Philosophy: Reflecting its origins, the reader includes pieces related to the Beat generation, figures like Abbie Hoffman, Tim Leary, and Allen Ginsberg, as well as philosophical explorations and critiques of various cultural aspects.
• Book Reviews and Zine Recommendations: Several sections are dedicated to reviews of books and other zines, providing a curated look at related literature and publications in the field.

Notable Contributors and Topics:

The reader features a vast list of contributors, including Roy Lisker, Jim Keith, Kenn Thomas, Paul Kangas, X. Sharks DeSpot, Robert Anton Wilson, John Judge, Len Bracken, Tom Brown, David Hatcher Childress, Loren Coleman, Jim Cregan, and many others. The articles cover a broad spectrum, from historical analyses and political critiques to more speculative topics like "Mysterium Coniunctionis: On The Hidden and Oppository Parallels Between Anti-Esotericist Conspiratology and Traditional Esoteric Teachings" and "The Promis Threat."

Acknowledgements

The "Acknowledgements" section on page 4 highlights the significant debts owed by Steamshovel Press. The editor, Kenn Thomas, expresses gratitude to his family, Jim Martin (CEO of Flatland Books and Flatland Magazine) for graphic design and guidance, and Ron Bonds (proprietor at IllumiNet) for making the volume possible and for his business advice. A lengthy list of correspondents and acquaintances are thanked for their contributions, ideas, and leads, underscoring the collaborative and community-driven nature of the publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"Popular Alienation" consistently explores themes of conspiracy, hidden histories, political intrigue, and unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The editorial stance, as articulated by Kenn Thomas, is to provide a platform for well-documented, albeit often controversial, research and viewpoints. The publication embraces a diversity of perspectives, refraining from imposing a single voice or political mold. It champions individual insight and expression, often drawing from the spirit of the counter-culture movement and alternative journalism. The emphasis is on presenting "rants of erudition and documentation, not 'theories' that have no basis in reality."

This issue of Steamshovel Press, dated Summer 1995 (Volume #13), is published by Steamshovel Press and edited/published by Kenn Thomas. The cover headline is "Sagan Sees a Moonbase," and the price is $5.00. The magazine focuses on alternative histories, conspiracy theories, and intriguing connections between seemingly disparate figures and events.

Editorial and Distribution Notes

The editor, Kenn Thomas, addresses the distribution challenges of Steamshovel Press, noting that it prefers to deal directly with bookstores rather than mainstream newsstand wholesalers. He lists several distribution services that carry the magazine. Thomas also discusses the economics of paying contributors, acknowledging that while it's an ambition, only two contributors have been paid, and one even sued. The current volume contains content from issues 4-11, plus a virtual issue #13. Subscribers will have their issue numbers bumped up, with issue #14 arriving later than usual. The primary recompense for contributors is three copies of the magazine, with a preference for submissions between 3500-5000 words in IBM format, though any submission is considered if sources check out.

Article: Sagan Sees a Moonbase

This article revisits Dr. Carl Sagan's 1962 hypothesis about extraterrestrial visitation. At 28, Sagan presented an equation to the American Rocket Society suggesting the probability of intelligent alien civilizations visiting Earth every few thousand years. He posited that such civilizations might maintain bases on the moon to avoid detection and interference. The article notes that Sagan later expressed embarrassment about his early equations, and some readers have speculated about a connection to MJ12 documents. The piece also touches on the challenges of managing information in the face of "fringe" topics and the potential for skeptics to mismanage information, citing an example of Jim Marrs' book on the JFK assassination being misidentified.

Article: Johnny Meyer: Gemstone's Link Between Howard Hughes and Aristotle Onassis

Authored by Gerald A. Carroll, this article delves into the "Gemstone thesis," which claims that Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis masterminded the kidnapping of billionaire Howard Hughes in 1957. The thesis suggests that Hughes' men either quit, were fired, or stayed on in the new Onassis organization. The article highlights suspicious departures of key Hughes Corp. executives around that time, including Noah Dietrich and William "Bill" Gay. It posits that Johnny W. Meyer, a close confidante of Hughes, was the common thread between Hughes and Onassis, acting as a skilled public relations expert who manipulated the media. Meyer's alleged involvement in covering up Hughes' dealings, particularly during the Brewster Hearings of 1947, is discussed. The article also details Meyer's later role in monitoring Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis after Aristotle's death and his own mysterious death in 1983. The narrative connects Meyer to oil-rig investments and a significant "loan" from Equitable Plan Company in 1957, questioning if this was a payoff for his cooperation in the alleged Hughes kidnapping.

Article: Tom Slick - Mystery Man

Written by Loren Coleman, this piece investigates the life of Thomas Baker Slick, a wealthy Texan heir who became involved in cryptozoology. Slick, who died mysteriously in 1962, is described as an adventurer with interests in the abominable snowmen and the Loch Ness Monster. The article traces his early life, education at Phillips Exeter Academy and Yale University, and his friendships, notably with Stewart "S.S." Wilson. It highlights Slick's travels, including a search for the Loch Ness Monster in 1937. The article also explores Slick's alleged connections to Las Vegas, Mickey Cohen, and potentially the Mafia, as well as his involvement with the CIA through Slick Airways. His military service during World War II, including time in Saipan, is examined, with speculation about his role in intelligence operations. The article questions whether cryptozoology was a front for a "covert cryptopolitical agenda."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Steamshovel Press revolve around conspiracy theories, hidden histories, and the interconnectedness of powerful figures and clandestine organizations. The magazine appears to champion the exploration of unconventional narratives and challenges mainstream interpretations of historical events. The editorial stance, as indicated by Kenn Thomas, is one of independent publishing that prioritizes revealing "hidden truths" and offering alternative perspectives, even if it means operating outside conventional media channels and economic models. The articles collectively suggest a world where powerful individuals and secret agencies operate behind the scenes, influencing events and shaping narratives.

Title: Popular Alienation
Issue: #13, Summer 1995
Publisher: Steamshovel Press
Cover Headline: The CIA and the Cult of Intelligence

This issue of Popular Alienation, published by Steamshovel Press, delves into the complex and often clandestine activities of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), particularly focusing on its involvement in Tibet during the 1950s and 1960s. The central figure explored is Tom Slick, an oil millionaire and yeti enthusiast, whose expeditions and business dealings appear to have intersected significantly with intelligence operations.

The CIA, E-Systems, and Tom Slick

The article begins by detailing how Tom Slick's company, Air-Sea Forwarders, became a front for CIA operations, eventually becoming part of Air America and later purchased by E-Systems, a company specializing in electronics for reconnaissance and military intelligence. The CIA's involvement with Slick Airways is traced back to the company's creation. The text highlights a lawsuit by Erwin Rautenberg against the CIA for unpaid debts incurred while using Air-Sea Forwarders as a front, and notes the CIA's tax-exempt status.

E-Systems, later acquired by Raytheon, is described as a growing company in a niche largely protected from budget cuts, providing electronic systems for military intelligence and Air Force One.

Slick's Business and International Connections

Beyond his involvement with the CIA, Tom Slick was a prominent businessman, chairman of the Slick-Urschel Oil Company, and involved in numerous other enterprises. He was recognized as 'Young Man of the Year 1948' and received an honorary Doctor of Science degree. Slick also traveled internationally and was publicly supportive of world disarmament.

The Strategy for Peace Conference and FBI Surveillance

Slick founded the Strategy for Peace Conference, holding meetings in the early 1960s. The article reveals that Slick was under FBI surveillance from January 1961 through February 1962, with investigations into his background and any subversive activities.

Cryptopolitical and Cryptozoology

The issue explores the intersection of cryptozoology (the study of hidden or unknown animals) and cryptopolitics (intelligence operations disguised as or linked to such studies). The search for the abominable snowman (yeti) in the Himalayas is presented as a potential cover for espionage operations aimed at spying on Chinese military and political activities in Tibet.

Historical Background of Espionage and Cryptozoology

The article traces a historical link between individuals involved in cryptozoological pursuits and secret intelligence networks, citing Dr. Edward Bancroft in the 18th century as an example of an espionage agent involved in collecting information on exotic creatures.

Tibet, Pandas, and Spies

Tibet is highlighted as a region of geopolitical significance. The article mentions early expeditions to collect giant pandas, some of which involved individuals later connected to intelligence work, such as Kermit Roosevelt and Brooke Dolan, who were involved with the OSS and CIA.

Yeti Searching and Covert Operations

The vortex of intelligence operatives connected with cryptozoology seems to center around Tom Slick. The article questions whether the search for the abominable snowman served as a cover for covert operations. It notes Slick's presence in the Himalayas and a mysterious episode involving a supposed CIA agent meeting a Tibetan contact in Kalimpong, India, to discuss arms supply lines.

Tom Slick was running expeditions for abominable snowmen from San Antonio in the late 1950s, employing Peter and Bryan Byrne as agents. Kalimpong is identified as a 'spy center' where such meetings occurred.

Ornithology and Espionage: The Old Boy Network

The article suggests a strong connection between birdwatching and spying, noting that former CIA directors and covert actions experts enjoyed both pastimes. It draws parallels to fictional portrayals of spies using birdwatching as a cover.

Ian Fleming and James Bond

Peter Byrne's connection to Tom Slick led to his meeting Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. The article notes that the name 'James Bond' was derived from the author of 'The Birds of the West Indies,' and that the original '007' was Dr. John Dee, Queen Elizabeth's personal spy.

The Dalai Lama's Escape and CIA Involvement

While there are denials, rumors suggest Tom Slick and Peter Byrne were involved in the safe passage of the Dalai Lama from Tibet. The article cites Fletcher Prouty, an Air Force colonel, who stated that the Dalai Lama's escape was a significant CIA success that has been largely unacknowledged. The CIA was reportedly well-informed about the fleeing Dalai Lama, possibly providing an American radio operator for the party.

The CIA in Tibet and Disinformation

Information regarding the CIA's deep involvement in Tibet in the 1950s and 1960s remains largely classified. The article suggests that the CIA may have used false UFO sightings and yeti reports as disinformation tactics against the Chinese. Desmond FitzGerald, a CIA Asian expert, is mentioned as being involved in such operations.

Yeti Expeditions: Spy Missions?

Sir Edmund Hillary's 1960 expedition to Nepal, sponsored by the World Book encyclopedia company, is also examined for potential spying activities. English and Italian press accounts suggest that one objective was to spy on the Chinese in Tibet, with rocket experts observing Chinese missile launches.

Coverup vs. Cover?

The issue raises the question of whether the intelligence community's interest in cryptozoology is more about hiding their own covert activities ('covers') than about hiding evidence of phenomena ('cover-ups'). The article posits that agents might use cryptozoological searches as a 'psywar' technique.

Strange Deaths

The article details the suspicious death of Tom Slick in a plane crash in October 1962. Despite official investigations, the exact cause remains unknown, with theories ranging from a bomb to an 'internal explosion,' and even murder. The deaths of other individuals associated with Slick's expeditions are also noted.

Connections to JFK and Cord Meyer

Tom Slick's role as a member of the National Advisory Board of the United World Federalists is highlighted, linking him to Cord Meyer, who later became Chief of the CIA's Covert Action operations. The article speculates on potential connections between Slick and early planning meetings related to the JFK assassination, suggesting he might have been killed for knowing too much.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intricate and often hidden connections between intelligence agencies (primarily the CIA), business interests, and seemingly unrelated fields like cryptozoology and espionage. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, suggesting that official narratives may obscure deeper, more covert activities and that 'covers' are frequently employed by intelligence organizations. The article emphasizes the difficulty in obtaining concrete information due to classified records and the deliberate use of disinformation and secrecy.

Title: Popular Alienation
Issue: #13
Volume: 324
Date: Summer 1995
Publisher: Steamshovel Press
Price: $5.00

This issue of Popular Alienation features a deep dive into the 'Men in Black' phenomenon, exploring their alleged return and evolving tactics in the 1990s. It also includes an article on the controversial claims made by the Michigan Militia regarding the Oklahoma City bombing, an examination of Carlos Castaneda's work and its impact, and a report on the Mind Sciences Foundation's shift in research focus.

Black Cars at Night: The Men in Black Reanimated by Scott Corrales

This article posits that the 'Men in Black' (MIB) phenomenon, once thought to have faded, has returned with renewed vigor. These figures, described as agents from a supersecret government command or extraterrestrial power, are said to harass UFO witnesses, often appearing in black suits, white shirts, and red ties. They deliver warnings to cease discussion of sightings or investigations. The article traces the history of MIB encounters, from the Maury Island incident to more recent cases, and explores various theories about their origin, including government agents, extraterrestrials, or 'negative paraphysical forces.'

Early encounters with MIB often involved the Air Force, which would investigate UFO sightings. However, the appearance of men claiming affiliation with the Air Force but exhibiting strange behavior and psychic abilities raised suspicion. The article details incidents where MIB allegedly interfered with investigations, stole documents, and even threatened witnesses. It notes that MIB have been described as having uncanny powers and a sinister aura, with some researchers suggesting they are a form of demonic psychic energy or 'thought-forms.'

The article highlights specific cases, including Colonel Jim Doherty's encounter in 1951, the harassment of witness Harold Dahl in the Maury Island 'Hoax,' and the involvement of MIB in the West Virginia 'Mothman' sightings. It also discusses the theory that MIB might be elements of the Air Force Special Activities Center (AFSAC) or even Tibetan monks serving the CIA. The phenomenon's adaptability is noted, with MIB in the 1990s reportedly traveling in twos, using public transport, and departing UFO landing sites in humvees or jeeps, mimicking human behavior.

Steamshovel Debris: The November 22, 1993 edition of the San Antonio Express-News

This section reports on the increased publicity efforts of Southwest Research Institute, Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research, and the Mind Science Foundation, all San Antonio research facilities with a connection to the late Tom Slick, Jr. The Mind Sciences Foundation, which developed from an interest in parapsychology, studied phenomena like positive imagery, the immune system, Alzheimer's disease, spiritual healing, and psychokinesis. According to executive director Catherine Nixon, the foundation had been 'content to be ignored' and phased out its last 'in-house' project in July 1993.

The foundation intends to continue collaborative efforts with institutions like the University of Texas Health Science Center. Tom Slick III, son of the founder, stated that the foundation is undergoing a 'methodological change,' wanting to do other things besides parapsychology. The Mind Science Foundation has a permanent $3 million endowment and plans to raise additional funds.

Undeclared War Exists Faxed by Norman Olson

This article presents a fax from Norman Olson, Commander of the Michigan Militia Corps, making extraordinary claims about the Oklahoma City bombing. Olson asserts that the bombing was not the work of Timothy McVeigh but an act of war by the Japanese government in retaliation for a U.S. gas attack on a subway in Japan. He alleges that CIA and FBI employees were hired by the Japanese Embassy to bug executive offices and that Japan retaliated by devaluing the dollar against the yen.

Olson claims that Walter Mondale was aware of this espionage activity and attempted to have it investigated. He further alleges that the U.S. government gassed Japanese citizens to discredit the government, and Japan, in response, destroyed the Federal Building in Oklahoma City. A 'copycat bomb' was allegedly used to blame Arab people. The fax names Robert Goetzman, Dan Starkey, Wes Thomas, Paul Steel, and Jim Cofield as the top five conspirators.

Olson contends that President Bush's CIA controls the presidency and that the death of Vince Foster was a message to Clinton. He declares an undeclared war between Japan and America, with the American people paying the price. The fax concludes with a biblical reference and a statement about the suppressed sacrificial lamb of Oklahoma becoming a Wolverine.

In a related note, the article mentions that after Olson released this fax and made similar comments in Chile, the Michigan Militia asked him to resign due to embarrassment. The militia's communications director attributed Olson's behavior to 'tremendous stress and lack of sleep.' It is also noted that Olson's rant was not original and had originated with a woman named Debra Van Trapp.

Carlos Castaneda: Criticism and Conspiracies by Tom Lyttle

This article examines the work of Carlos Castaneda, a popular writer whose autobiographical books on Yaqui sorcery have sold millions. Castaneda is described as one of the most well-known American anthropologists, whose books chronicle his initiations into shamanic secret societies and traditions. His works, such as 'The Teachings of Don Juan,' are noted for their compelling, mystical, and readable nature.

The article traces the origins of Castaneda's writing, mentioning his early unpublished works and the eventual publication of 'The Teachings of Don Juan' by the University of California Press in 1968. Castaneda's books became popular during a time of increased interest in drug experimentation and alternative politics, influencing the sub-cultural landscape. The author notes that Castaneda, like Timothy Leary, set a standard for discussions on psychedelic drug use and contributed to the rise of a 'celebrity cult' within consciousness studies.

The article also touches upon the rivalry between Castaneda, Timothy Leary, and R. Gordon Wasson, who published articles on Mexican shaman Maria Sabina and the ritual uses of 'magic mushrooms.' This period marked the beginning of 'psychedelic anthropology' or 'ethnopharmacology.' Castaneda's subsequent books, including 'A Separate Reality' and 'The Art of Dreaming,' continued to explore Yaqui Indian sorcery and the world of shamans, presenting the material as factual anthropology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, conspiracy theories, and alternative narratives. The magazine appears to present a platform for exploring controversial topics, including the 'Men in Black,' alleged government cover-ups, and unconventional historical interpretations, such as the Michigan Militia's claims about the Oklahoma City bombing. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various perspectives and historical accounts without necessarily endorsing them as definitive truth. The inclusion of extensive reference lists suggests a commitment to providing sources for the claims made within the articles.

This issue of Steamshovel Press, dated Summer 1995, issue #13, delves into critical analyses of prominent figures and historical events, with a particular focus on Carlos Castaneda, the Vietnam War, and the role of Robert McNamara. The magazine presents a collection of articles, letters, and reviews that question established narratives and explore controversial perspectives.

Castaneda's Controversial Legacy

The issue dedicates significant space to examining the works of Carlos Castaneda. It details the plants he reportedly used for training, such as jimson weed, psilocybin mushrooms, and peyote. The articles highlight the criticisms leveled against Castaneda, including accusations of fabricating data, misrepresenting cultures (particularly Yaqui and Huichol), and creating a fictionalized shamanic persona. Experts like Richard deMille, Weston La Barre, and Jay Fikes are cited for their critiques, which question the authenticity of Castaneda's ethnographic research and the academic integrity of his Ph.D. thesis. The role of UCLA anthropologists in supporting Castaneda's work is also scrutinized. The article suggests that Castaneda's popularity significantly boosted the New Age market, influencing workshops, magazines, and a general fascination with shamanism and natural hallucinogens.

The Vietnam War and Robert McNamara

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to a critical examination of the Vietnam War, with a specific focus on Robert McNamara's role. The author contrasts Noam Chomsky's interpretation of JFK's potential withdrawal from Vietnam with McNamara's perspective, as presented in his memoir. The article scrutinizes McNamara's reliance on statistical data, particularly the "body count," and reveals how these figures were systematically manipulated. It discusses the "statistical control theory" developed by McNamara and his team, which was applied to military management. The issue highlights the discrepancy between McNamara's projections and the historical reality of the war's escalation, particularly under the Johnson administration. A key piece of evidence presented is a memo from Kennedy to Ambassador Lodge in Saigon, which offers a different perspective on Kennedy's intentions regarding the war and the Diem regime.

Critiques of Intellectual Discourse and Academia

The magazine also features a letter to the editor from Kenn Thomas, which engages with the publication "Barnes Review" and discusses the definition of fascism and imperialism. This letter prompts a response from Willis A. Carto, who defends his publication's stance and criticizes the liberal understanding of fascism. The issue touches upon the perceived intellectual climate in places like Boston and Cambridge, suggesting a "groaning, grumbling underground of embittered intellectuals" who feel ignored by the government. This sentiment is echoed in the critique of Chomsky's "academic neo-Maoism" style and his perceived bitterness towards figures like Kennedy.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are included, offering critical perspectives on recent publications. "Rethinking Camelot" by Noam Chomsky is reviewed, with the reviewer criticizing Chomsky's rhetorical style and his interpretation of the Vietnam War. The reviewer contrasts Chomsky's thesis with John Newman's research. Robert S. McNamara's memoir, "In Retrospect," is also reviewed, with the reviewer highlighting McNamara's statistical approach and its perceived flaws. The review of "The Cambridge Crank Tournament" by Roy Lisker appears to be a critical examination of statistical methods in research. The issue also mentions other books and authors relevant to the themes discussed, including works by Richard Alan Miller and Thomas Lyttle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include skepticism towards established authorities and narratives, a critical examination of academic and intellectual discourse, and a deep dive into the complexities and controversies surrounding figures like Carlos Castaneda and Robert McNamara. The editorial stance appears to be one of challenging conventional wisdom, promoting independent research, and fostering a critical dialogue on historical events and cultural phenomena. The magazine champions the idea of community and the sharing of information as a legacy, even when the truth of individual claims remains in dispute.

Title: Steamshovel Press
Issue: #13
Volume: Summer 1995
Date: Summer 1995
Publisher: Steamshovel Press
Country: USA
Language: English
Cover Headline: Shootings from the Hip and Shootings from the Lip But Jesse's Only Joking

Article: Shootings from the Hip and Shootings from the Lip But Jesse's Only Joking by John Kimsey

This article by John Kimsey, published in Steamshovel Press #13, Summer 1995, critically examines the connection between inflammatory political rhetoric and acts of violence, particularly in the context of the presidency. The author begins by recounting a shooting incident on December 17th near the White House, where stray bullets landed inches from the building while the first family was inside. This is presented as the third such incident in approximately three months, following a plane crash/suicide incident and an assault rifle attack confirmed as an assassination attempt. The author notes that the Secret Service was unsure if the White House shooting was related to a nearby, unsolved incident, and sarcastically dismisses the official explanation.

Kimsey points out that while some attribute these events to an "anti-Clinton sentiment" or the presence of "lone nuts," a pattern is emerging that warrants closer examination. This pattern is linked to the rhetoric used by prominent voices of the "radical right." The article specifically highlights statements made by US Senator Jesse Helms, who was quoted in a North Carolina newspaper claiming high anti-Clinton sentiment among military people and suggesting that Clinton was unfit to be commander-in-chief, advising him to "bring a bodyguard" if he visited North Carolina bases.

When these remarks drew criticism, Helms and his defenders quickly claimed he was "joking" or speaking "off the cuff." The author criticizes the media's tendency to frame such remarks as merely Helms' "quaint, wacky way of expressing himself" or his "abrasive, call-'em-like-he-sees-'em style," rather than addressing the substance of his potentially dangerous speech. Journalist John Monk is quoted describing Helms as someone who "rips liberal targets with passionate attacks that frequently offended" but also "pleased many Americans who felt he was voicing truths that other politicians were afraid to utter." The article notes that while some commentators found this deplorable, it was mostly seen as "declassé-vulgar and embarrassing."

Kimsey then delves into Helms' history of making "bigoted, unfunny 'jokes' and spewing ultra-rightist insults," citing instances such as singing "Dixie" at Senator Carol Moseley Braun and arguing against a national holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King, whom he accused of being a communist sympathizer with "hostility to and hatred for America."

The author draws a parallel between Helms and David Duke, a politician and former Klansman, suggesting they are "veritable Ministers of Truth" akin to Orwell's Ministry of Truth, where "War is peace, freedom is slavery, ignorance is strength." Kimsey notes the irony that Helms, who has expressed grave fears about the power of words and images to harm and corrupt, and who made an issue of "degenerate art" by Mapplethorpe and Serrano, now makes threats on the life of the president.

The article contrasts this with the case of a Surgeon General who was hounded from office for "sane, scientifically nuanced remarks" about AIDS and drug policy that offended a reactionary lobby, implying that if she had sung "Dixie," she might have kept her job.

Kimsey then broadens the scope to include other instances. He mentions the assault rifle assassination attempt by Francisco Duran, whose truck was plastered with "right-wing Limbaugh-oid bumper stickers and slogans," a detail that was quickly dropped from subsequent reports. He questions how the coverage would have differed if the assailant had been a leftist.

Further examples include Ronald Gene Barbour, an unemployed limousine driver from Orlando, FL, arrested for threatening to kill Clinton. Barbour, a "Dittohead" (a supporter of Rush Limbaugh), was quoted saying Clinton was a "criminal" and a "public enemy." Limbaugh himself is described as running a "nonstop campaign to demonize the Clintons," referring to them as an "alien occupational force" and America as "held hostage by Clintonistas." Limbaugh, like Helms, claims he is "only joking" and is merely an entertainer.

The author argues that such remarks, uttered widely and without cease by prominent people, help create the climate in which these incidents occur. He posits that even if the perpetrators are "lone nuts," it is worth wondering what tips them over the edge. Continual references to Clinton as an "enemy of the American people," "endless smears," and "jokes about him needing bodyguards" can serve as a function of "campaigns of demonization," making violence against the targeted individual or group more conceivable, possible, and permissible, similar to Nazi propaganda about Jews.

Kimsey then discusses the case of President Kennedy, who arrived in Dallas to a newspaper ad calling him a communist collaborator and posters labeling him a "Wanted For Treason." He notes that in April 1963, an anonymous flier circulated among Miami's Cuban exile community, implying a desire for Kennedy's removal. The author suggests that regardless of whether Kennedy was killed by a lone nut or a conspiracy, such a climate contributed to making the assassination conceivable, possible, and permissible.

The article concludes by noting the "amusement that is almost palpable" in a Knight-Ridder story describing Helms as a tough customer who "shoots from the lip." Kimsey asserts that in a country that prizes free speech, even "intolerant dogmatists" like Helms, Limbaugh, and Pat Robertson have the right to speak their minds, even with "unsubstantiated smears and provocative remarks." However, he ends with a chilling observation: "When others start shooting from assault rifles with bullets, we can comfort ourselves in the knowledge that Helms, Limbaugh and company were only joking. Now: all rise for the Two-Minute Hate."

Other Content

The issue also includes advertisements for various media outlets and services related to conspiracy, UFOs, and paranormal topics:

• OSI 74: Promotes programming including "Pantry Manor" with Bunny Galore, "Midnight Frights" with Eric Miller, and "Super-8 Action Theatre" with Karlos Borloff.
• Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis: Advertises a radio show and website.
• Adventures Unlimited: Offers a catalog of books and DVDs on topics like UFOs, Atlantis, conspiracy, and ancient aliens.
• Conspiracy Channel: Promotes a service offering "1000's of hours of Conspiracy, UFO and Paranormal Films & Series," with a coupon code "STEAMSHOVEL" for two months free.

There is also a photo on page 4 showing police examining the body of Mary Pinchot Meyer on October 13, 1964, along the Potomac River in Washington D.C., with a photo credit to Loren Coleman.

Page 5 features a photo of Brian Redman of the e-newsletter "Conspiracy Nation" and Sherman Skotnick at the River Flame restaurant near Chicago in April 1995.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of political discourse, media influence, and the potential for violence. The editorial stance is critical of inflammatory rhetoric from right-wing figures, arguing that it contributes to a dangerous political climate and can normalize or encourage violence against political opponents. The magazine appears to advocate for a more critical examination of such rhetoric, questioning the "joke" defense and drawing parallels to historical events where public discourse may have played a role in violent outcomes. The advertisements suggest a readership interested in conspiracy theories, UFOs, and paranormal phenomena, aligning with the magazine's critical and often skeptical approach to mainstream narratives.