Steamshovel Press - Issue 17

Magazine Overview

Title: Steamshovel Press
Issue: #17
Volume: Year 2k
Date: 2000
Publisher: Steamshovel Press
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 10602-3795
Price: $6.00

This issue of Steamshovel Press, dated 2000, is themed 'Table Tapping Into The New Millenium' and features a prominent cover highlighting previously unpublished interviews with literary and countercultural figures William S. Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg, and Timothy Leary. The cover also teases additional articles on Kerouac's science fiction, Neal Cassady as an urban legend, the Maury Island UFO incident, and 'Comic Book Conspiracy!'

Table of Contents

The 'What's Inside' section details the issue's content, including:

• Previously Unpublished Interviews:
• William S. Burroughs (pages 2-7)
• Allen Ginsberg (pages 9-13)
• Timothy Leary (pages 14-17)
• Legends of Neal: Cassady as Urban Legend by Tom Christopher (pages 18-19)
• Kerouac's CITYCitycity by Adam Gorightly (pages 20-22)
• The Comic Book Conspiracy by Robert Guffey (pages 24-28)
• Saucer Section: The Last Days of Fred Crisman - Maury Island UFO book excerpt (pages 29-32)
• The Strange Business of Dan Griffith II (pages 33-34)
• Rajneesh Rising from the Grave by Acharya S. (pages 34-41)
• Book Reviews (pages 42-49)
• Caries, Cabals and Correspondence (pages 50-52)
• Dimly Visible Through A Fog of Evasions; In Memory of Jim Keith by Wayne Henderson (pages 53-62)
• What's with the infrequency. Kenneth? (Editorial note)

The issue is dedicated to Jerry E. Durrwachter and thanks members of the transition team.

Featured Articles and Interviews

William S. Burroughs Interview

This extensive interview, conducted by Kenn Thomas, delves into William S. Burroughs' life and work. It begins by contextualizing his connection to St. Louis, his hometown, and his brief returns for readings and family events. The article touches upon his early life, his family's financial background (which he clarifies was not as affluent as perceived), and his varied early careers. Burroughs' seminal works, 'Junkie' and 'Naked Lunch,' are discussed, including the controversy surrounding 'Naked Lunch' and its eventual court-sanctioned publication. His literary style, influenced by techniques like 'cut-up,' is explored, as is his evolution into apocalyptic satire that resonated with younger generations. The interview also covers his election to the American Academy of Arts and Letters and his perception of his writing as a 'mythology of the space age.' Burroughs discusses his influences, including Denton Welch, and his views on space migration, psychedelic drugs (which he found largely unpleasant, preferring yage), and the concept of time travel through memory and dreams. He also comments on his relationship with other Beat writers, noting that while they shared literary objectives, their styles were distinct, and he saw himself as more aligned with the 'punk underground' than the 'hippy' movement.

Other Featured Content

The issue includes an excerpt from the book 'Saucer Section: The Last Days of Fred Crisman' related to the Maury Island UFO incident. There's also an exploration of 'Kerouac's CITYCitycity' and an article on 'Legends of Neal: Cassady as Urban Legend.' 'The Comic Book Conspiracy' by Robert Guffey is also featured. The book reviews section covers a range of topics, including UFOs, mind control, and free energy.

Book Advertisements

Several books published by Illuminet Press are advertised, including:

• Maury Island UFO: The Crisman Conspiracy by Kenn Thomas
• MILABS: Military Mind Control & Alien Abduction by Dr. Helmut and Marion Lammer
• Mass Control: Engineering Human Consciousness by Jim Keith
• Mind Control and UFOs: Casebook on Alternative 3 by Jim Keith
• Saucers of the Illuminati by Jim Keith
• Free Energy Pioneer: John Worrell Keely by Theo Paijmans

These advertisements provide descriptions, page counts, prices, and ISBNs for the featured books.

Wilhelm Reich and the Cold War

A separate section promotes the book 'Wilhelm Reich and the Cold War' by Jim Martin, published by Flatland Books. This edition is described as a limited, first edition of 500 copies, clothbound, with 562 pages, a bibliography, photo section, and index. It is priced at $150.00 and is available signed and numbered. The publisher's details and ordering information are provided, along with testimonials from early previewers, including Eva Reich, MD, Dick Rossell, Kenn Thomas, James DeMeo, and Jon East.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Steamshovel Press consistently explores themes of conspiracy, the counterculture, UFO phenomena, and alternative history. The interviews and articles often feature prominent figures from the Beat Generation and beyond, examining their lives, works, and unconventional ideas. The magazine's stance appears to be one of critical inquiry into established narratives, particularly concerning government secrecy, unexplained phenomena, and the hidden aspects of history and consciousness. The inclusion of interviews with figures like William S. Burroughs and discussions of topics like mind control and UFOs suggest a focus on challenging mainstream perspectives and exploring the fringes of knowledge and experience.

This issue of STEAMSHOVEL PRESS, dated May 1997, is presented as 'Table Tapping Into The New Millenium, Part Two and Three'. It features extensive, previously unpublished interviews with prominent counterculture figures Allen Ginsberg and Timothy Leary, alongside an article on the legend of Neal Cassady.

Allen Ginsberg Interview

The interview with Allen Ginsberg explores his role as an official spokesman for the Beat Generation, a role he largely defers to William S. Burroughs. Ginsberg expresses comfort in speaking for himself as someone involved in the literary aspect of the Beat Generation. He notes that the movement has been both romanticized and de-romanticized, but that its literature and principles of candor, openness, and enthusiasm are resonating with younger generations.

He observes a renewed interest in authors like Kerouac, Burroughs, Corso, and Gary Snyder among high school students. Ginsberg identifies emerging themes such as ecology, Eastern thought, meditation, and a re-evaluation of the educational role of psychedelics and marijuana, alongside a rejection of 'Reagan/Bush drugs.' He also points to a 'demystification of the government' and figures like J. Edgar Hoover, suggesting people are 'smarter than they were in the 50s.'

When asked about hope, Ginsberg dismisses it as irrelevant, focusing instead on 'facts.' He references David Stockman's alleged admission that Reagan's excessive military spending was intended to bankrupt the country and starve the welfare state. While he finds Clinton more cheerful than Reagan, he doesn't see how he can overcome the 'substantive wounds' left behind.

For aspiring young poets, Ginsberg advises writing poetry, learning to meditate, going to movies, and reading extensively, particularly old poetry.

He discusses his current reading interests, including Gregory Corso, posthumous Kerouac poems, and works by Ann Waldman, Diane Di Prima, Gary Snyder, Michael McClure, Philip Whalen, Robert Creeley, John Williams, Andy Blosen, David Cope, Eliot Katz, and David Greenberg.

Ginsberg views poetry as not going anywhere, maintaining its function of candid representation of private life, contrasting it with public language that is often manipulated. He describes spontaneous creation in poetry as the mind moving as one becomes familiar with what is arising, encapsulated by the slogan: 'Catch yourself thinking.' He sees little distinction between prose and poetry, citing examples like Joyce, Proust, and Wolfe.

Regarding enlightenment, Ginsberg aligns with a traditional Buddhist view that there is no such thing, but rather a recognition of one's already enlightened nature, akin to Zen's 'ordinary mind.' He describes 'crazy wisdom' as characterized by meekness, sparkiness, outrageousness, and inscrutability, stemming from an empty mind.

He touches on the use of psychedelics with meditation, suggesting meditation should be the grounding practice to avoid projections. He admits to occasional marijuana use for creative purposes. He also discusses his involvement in the 'Howl' legal battles and the importance of understanding broadcasting laws.

Timothy Leary Interview

Timothy Leary's interview, presented as 'Part Three,' begins with a humorous recollection of his past, including leading a revolution against King George and writing 'Huckleberry Finn.' He confirms his expulsion from Harvard was not due to LSD experiments but attributes being kicked out of places to his subversive message of 'Think for yourself and question authority.'

Leary details his prison experiences, noting he spent eight years in 39 jails for possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana, reiterating that his imprisonment stemmed from his message of independent thought.

He discusses the prison system, stating that America is the number one imprisoning country in the world, with prisons being a booming industry. He criticizes the sentencing of individuals for minor drug offenses and calls the system 'totalitarian.' He mentions being in prisons that G. Gordon Liddy also served time in, including Vacaville.

Leary expresses disdain for the current political climate, criticizing figures like George Bush and Dan Quayle. He advocates for voting for Clinton and Gore as a means to 'loosen it up' and bring about a better control, particularly for minorities, young people, women, and gays.

He contrasts the overt evil of Stalin with the more insidious totalitarianism in America, where people are unaware of the control. Leary describes his experimental techniques using computer graphics to activate the brain, aiming to teach people to program their own minds rather than be programmed by media and political figures.

Regarding his beliefs about organ freezing and brain reconditioning, Leary states it makes common sense to plan for reanimation, rejecting passive death and religious or societal dictates on when to die. He humorously adds he would not want to be brought back during a Republican administration.

He also discusses the 60s counterculture, noting its anti-establishment American tradition, which he feels has been subverted by the Republican Party and the religious right. He highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights and the shift in political focus to gender, age, and race.

Neal Cassady as an Urban Legend

This section details the life and mythos of Neal Cassady, a central figure in the Beat Generation and the counterculture. Tom Christopher's article describes Cassady's legendary status, his unfinished autobiography 'The First Third,' and his documented associations with Jack Kerouac, Ken Kesey, and the Merry Pranksters. The article notes that while some of his family history might be embellished, his personal accounts and experiences are verifiable.

It highlights Cassady's time at the Los Gatos Tire Company, where he worked after his release from San Quentin Prison for giving joints to a cop. His efficiency and speed at the physically demanding job astounded employers and customers. The article also mentions his car-parking tricks that impressed Kerouac.

Books by Len Bracken

This section provides brief descriptions of several books and media related to counterculture and anti-work themes, including 'The Zerowork Theory of Revolution,' 'Guy Debord - Revolutionary,' 'The Right to Be Lazy,' 'The Real Report on the Last Chance to Save Capitalism in Italy,' and various other publications and audio materials.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around counterculture, literary movements (particularly the Beat Generation), political critique, personal freedom, and the exploration of consciousness through various means, including psychedelics and meditation. The interviews with Ginsberg and Leary reveal a critical stance towards established political and social structures, advocating for individual thought and challenging authority. The editorial stance, as reflected in the content, appears to champion radical ideas, artistic expression, and a questioning of societal norms, consistent with the ethos of an underground press publication.

This issue of Steamshovel Press, dated approximately January 2000, contains a variety of articles focusing on counter-culture figures, science fiction, and historical censorship. The magazine's overall tone is critical of mainstream narratives and supportive of alternative viewpoints.

Neal Cassady: The Tire Shop Stories

The issue opens with a detailed account of Neal Cassady's time working at a tire company. It describes his remarkable dexterity and strength, particularly his ability to perform complex tricks with a tire pry bar and to lift and maneuver heavy tires with surprising ease. Anecdotes highlight his stamina and concentration, including a story where he fell asleep standing up, holding tires. The article notes that while his co-workers knew him as the 'craziest guy' who worked there, they were unaware of his later fame as a key figure in the Beat Generation, the subject of Jack Kerouac's 'Howl,' and the 'Adonis of Denver.' The piece also touches on the complexities of Cassady's personal history, including his father's alcoholism and potential mythmaking, and his wife Carolyn's accounts of his life. His autobiography, 'The First Third,' and other published works are mentioned, along with the availability of audio and video materials related to him.

Kerouac's CITYCitycity

This section, authored by Adam Gorightly, explores Jack Kerouac's science fiction story 'CITYCitycity.' Gorightly expresses initial surprise at Kerouac, a devotee of 'Essentials of Spontaneous Prose,' writing science fiction. The article details Kerouac's belief that real themes from everyday life were more suitable for expressing the 'true voice of the Muse' than artificial Sci-Fi constructs. 'CITYCitycity,' originally begun in the 1950s and later published in 'The Moderns: An Anthology of New Writing in America,' is described as a dystopian tale set in a totalitarian cyber-society ruled by 'she-demon feminists.' The story depicts a world plagued by overpopulation, mandatory drug ingestion, and constant surveillance through a 'Brow Multivision set.' The narrative explores themes of government control, the suppression of individuality, and the use of euthanasia for population control. The article highlights Kerouac's critique of post-World War II America as an 'air conditioned nightmare' and his vision of a future where individuals are controlled by government bureaucracies. The story's publication history and its Orwellian themes are discussed, along with its potential paranormal elements influenced by William S. Burroughs.

Comic Book Conspiracy: A Poisonous Mushroom Growth

Authored by Robert Guffey, this extensive article examines the historical campaign against comic books in the mid-20th century. It begins by referencing Sterling North's 1940 Chicago Daily News article, which labeled comic books a "poisonous mushroom growth" and called for government intervention. The piece critiques North's motivations, suggesting they were linked to the declining sales of his own literary works. The article then focuses on Dr. Frederick Wertham, a psychiatrist who became a leading figure in the anti-comic book movement. Wertham's efforts, particularly his book 'Seduction of the Innocent,' are credited with nearly succeeding in reducing comic books to 'flakes of gray ash.' The article details the climate of fear and paranoia during the Cold War era, linking the anti-comic sentiment to broader propaganda efforts against perceived enemies. It highlights the Senate Investigation of Comic Books and Juvenile Delinquency in 1954, where publisher William Gaines was forced to testify, leading to the establishment of the Comics Code Authority. The author criticizes the hypocrisy and inconsistencies in the arguments against comics, pointing to figures like J. Edgar Hoover and the broader political climate. The piece also draws parallels between the censorship of comics and contemporary issues, such as the regulation of television content. The article argues that comic books, like jazz, are indigenous American art forms that have historically been marginalized and regulated due to societal anxieties.

Further Criticisms and Parallels

The 'Comic Book Conspiracy' article continues by discussing the impact of the Comics Code Authority, noting that it took decades for the medium to recover. It contrasts this with the artistic freedom found in graphic novels. The author posits that comic books and jazz have historically served as outlets for marginalized groups, expressing the 'deep and secret longings' of the exploited. The article also touches upon the use of propaganda techniques, drawing parallels between Sterling North's rhetoric and that used by Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels. It critiques the notion of 'distraction' as a political tool, citing examples like the demonization of marijuana, heavy metal music, and various social groups. The article concludes by citing various works related to Kerouac, Cassady, and the history of censorship.

Reviews and Advertisements

The issue also includes advertisements and listings for related publications and services. 'The Excluded Middle' magazine is featured, highlighting its current issue (#9) which covers topics such as fugitive Ira Einhorn, the Manson family, German Nazism, and UFO cases. An advertisement for 'Adventures Unlimited' offers a catalog of esoteric books and videos. Another ad promotes the Steamshovel Press website, offering redesigned features and regular columns. A listing for 'Sgt. Pepper's Bar & Grill' in Kempton, Illinois, is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout this issue is the critique of mainstream culture, authority, and censorship. The magazine champions alternative voices and perspectives, particularly those associated with the Beat Generation and the broader counter-culture movement. There is a strong emphasis on historical analysis, exposing what the editors perceive as hidden agendas and propaganda. The editorial stance is clearly anti-establishment, critical of government overreach, and supportive of artistic and intellectual freedom, especially in mediums that have faced suppression, such as comic books and jazz.

This issue of "Saucer Section," Volume 1, Issue 16, published by Steamshovel Press in November 1999, focuses on the life and controversies surrounding Fred Crisman, a key figure in UFO lore and political intrigue. The cover headline, "The Last Days of Fred Crisman," sets the tone for an in-depth exploration of his multifaceted and often mysterious life.

The Last Days of Fred Crisman

The main feature is an excerpt from the book "Maury Island UFO" by Kenn Thomas, published by IllumiNet. The excerpt details Fred Crisman's claims of witnessing a UFO at Maury Island in 1947 and his subsequent involvement in various controversial events. Crisman became known in ufological circles and also gained notoriety for his political activities in Tacoma, Washington. He hosted a radio show under the pseudonym John Gold, expressing concerns about the city management style and advocating for political change. His political ambitions and commentary attracted attention, with one source suggesting his zeal stemmed from CIA orders.

Crisman's involvement in local politics included efforts to eliminate city management government in Tacoma, leading to the creation of a non-profit corporation. He was appointed to the Tacoma library board, a move that drew criticism. His defamation lawsuit against KAYE radio was dismissed, but he also faced setbacks in cable-TV franchising and lost a bid for election to the Civil Service Board. Allegations of mismanagement at the library surfaced, possibly linked to Crisman's opposition to city manager government.

His connection to the JFK assassination investigation is highlighted, as he was subpoenaed by District Attorney Jim Garrison and named in the Torbitt Document as one of the "three tramps" in the railyard behind Dealey Plaza. Crisman denied this claim, stating he was teaching high school at the time.

The excerpt also touches upon Crisman's interactions with other UFO researchers and personalities, including Harold Dahl, Gary Leslie, Dr. Frank E. Stranges, Thomas Beckham, and Wayne Aho. His reluctance to publicize his UFO experiences is noted, yet he continued to engage with the ufological community.

Crisman's later life included an attempt to start a public television station in Tacoma and a marriage to Mary Frances Borden. He passed away in December 1975 at the age of 56.

The Strange Business of Dan Griffith, part two

This section continues the investigation into the life of Dan Griffith, exploring the persistent harassment and surveillance he experienced since 1983. The article questions who would pursue an ordinary citizen across vast distances and examines incidents from Griffith's past, including a legal dispute over a business deal and harassment from Charles Keating, who later became infamous in the S&L crisis. Griffith's encounters with former fraternity brothers also exhibited hostility. His US Army service in Germany in 1959 is discussed, where he was asked to instruct on the "Soviet Comintern," leading to a potential "disaffective" label and a counter-intelligence file. The article highlights the control exerted over lawyers, bar associations, and private investigators, with Griffith facing obstacles in bringing actions against the FBI. He encountered lawyers who either did nothing or attempted to prevent legal action. Private investigators also reacted fearfully, using alert services to warn others about Griffith's pursuit.

A significant incident involved a high-ranking Vatican official feigning illness during Griffith's hospitalization in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1985, raising questions about the capability and influence of those involved.

Rajneesh Rising from the Grave

This article by Acharya S chronicles the life and controversial career of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (later known as Osho). It details his origins in India, his rejection of traditional religions, and his rise as a spiritual leader who challenged societal norms, particularly regarding sex and spirituality. Rajneesh established a large commune in the United States, the "Rajneeshpuram" in Oregon, which attracted thousands of followers and became a self-sufficient utopia. However, the commune faced opposition from locals and scrutiny from various government agencies, including the CIA and FBI.

The article highlights the role of Sheela Silverman, Rajneesh's lieutenant, who was allegedly involved in criminal activities, including drug offenses and poisonings. Rajneesh himself was not implicated in these crimes, but the commune became embroiled in legal troubles. He was eventually arrested and deported from the U.S., facing charges related to immigration fraud. The article suggests that his expulsion may have been influenced by political figures like Ronald Reagan and Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

Rajneesh's later years were marked by declining health and a change of name to Osho. His death in 1990 was preceded by the suicide of his confidant, Vivek. The article speculates on the causes of his death, including poisoning and self-euthanasia due to pain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of conspiracy, government surveillance, and the intersection of UFO phenomena with political and social events. The articles suggest a pattern of hidden agendas, powerful organizations influencing events, and individuals caught in complex webs of intrigue. The editorial stance appears to favor in-depth investigative journalism, presenting detailed accounts of controversial figures and events, often with a critical eye towards established authorities and narratives. The focus on Fred Crisman, Dan Griffith, and Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh highlights individuals who challenged the status quo and became targets of significant scrutiny and opposition.

This document comprises several articles from issues 40-47 of Steamshovel Press, focusing on critical analyses of spiritual leaders, political figures, intelligence agencies, and historical events. The content is dense with investigative journalism and book reviews, often presenting a contrarian or conspiratorial perspective on established narratives.

Rajneesh (Osho): Critique of Religion and Politics

The articles detail the activities and teachings of Rajneesh, also known as Osho. He is presented as a figure who posed a threat to the status quo, with his books constituting an "all-out assault on religions and politics." Rajneesh is quoted extensively, criticizing priests and politicians as "real criminals" who exploit the masses. He believed religions create fictional beliefs that retard the mind, while politicians create undignified lives through exploitation. Rajneesh advocated for science to serve life and love, and for power to be decentralized from corrupt politicians and priests into humanity's hands. He also criticized the concept of God as an "imaginary puppeteer" and a hindrance to freedom, stating that "Either God can exist or freedom, both cannot exist together." His critique extended to Judeo-Christianity, which he deemed "the most criminal religion in the world," citing its history of violence and its holy book as containing "pure pornography."

The CIA, Allen Dulles, and Conspiracy

A significant portion of the document is dedicated to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and its former director, Allen Dulles. The articles delve into the agency's alleged use of "cutouts" or go-betweens to distance itself from illegal activities, a practice referred to as "privatization." The "Dulles-Mafia Connection" is explored, detailing alleged plots involving the Outfit (the Chicago-based Mafia) and CIA operatives to assassinate Fidel Castro, with Allen Dulles reportedly initiating the idea. The role of Allen Dulles in the JFK assassination cover-up is also highlighted, noting the irony of his appointment to the Warren Commission after being fired by Kennedy for the Bay of Pigs fiasco. The articles suggest that ex-Nazi intelligence agents were positioned to aid in this cover-up.

Furthermore, the document alleges CIA infiltration of the mass media through "Operation Mockingbird," a plan where reporters were allegedly paid by the CIA to provide information and shape media narratives. The influence of figures like Katharine Graham and Benjamin Bradlee is mentioned in this context.

Book Reviews and Historical Analysis

Several book reviews offer critical perspectives on historical and conspiracy-related topics:

• "Conspiracy Theories: Secrecy and Power in American Culture" by Mark Fenster: Reviewed by Len Bracken, this book is criticized for not seriously addressing conspiracy theories themselves. The reviewer argues that Fenster's academic background obscures the everyday reality of conspiracies and that the book focuses on less significant theories (like X-Files) instead of major ones (like the Anglo-American Establishment or the October Surprise).

• "Allen Dulles: Master of Spies" by James Srodes: Reviewed by Uri Dowbenko, this biography is described as a "sanitized whitewash" that avoids Dulles's culpability in "heinous crimes against humanity." The review highlights Dulles's involvement with the powerful law firm Sullivan & Cromwell, his role as CIA director, his philandering, and his alleged connection to mind control experiments at Dr. Ewen Cameron's hospital. The review also touches upon the alleged collusion between Wall Street investment bankers and the Nazi war machine, citing Antony C. Sutton's work.

• "Sex And Rockets: The Occult World of Jack Parsons" by John Carter: Reviewed by Greg Bishop, this book explores the life of Jack Parsons, a pioneer rocket engineer and associate of Aleister Crowley. The review touches on Parsons's unconventional life, his involvement in occult practices, and his association with L. Ron Hubbard.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these articles include the critique of established power structures (religious, political, and corporate), the alleged manipulation of information by intelligence agencies and the media, and the exploration of historical events through a conspiratorial lens. The editorial stance of Steamshovel Press appears to be one of deep skepticism towards official narratives and a commitment to uncovering hidden histories and exposing perceived corruption and control by powerful elites. The publication seems to favor investigative journalism that challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate events and figures in shaping historical outcomes.

This issue of Steamshovel, identified by page numbers 49-58, is a collection of reader letters and articles focusing on conspiracy theories, occult subjects, and political commentary. The magazine's publisher is Steamshovel Press, based in St. Louis, MO.

Content Highlights

Page 49: This page features advertisements for books published by Feral House, including "Sex And Rockets: The Occult World of Jack Parsons" by John Carter, "Pills-A-Go-Go" by Jim Hogshire, and "The X-Rated Bible" by Ben Akerley. It also includes a brief synopsis of "Sex And Rockets," detailing Jack Parsons' life, his association with Hubbard, and his work with explosives, leading to his death in an accidental explosion.

Page 50: This page contains reader letters. Bob Alford discusses assassins, Ron Brown's death, and the presidency. Bill Kaysing's theory about the faked moon landings is debated, with a correspondent suggesting the astronauts only orbited Earth. The page also includes a note about intelligence agents and a reference to Jonathan Vankin's book on conspiracies.

Page 51: This page continues reader letters. G. J. Krupey critiques John Judge's views on communism and anarchism, arguing that anti-communists are inherently communists. A note provides contact information for Mr. Krupey and John Judge. Another letter congratulates Steamshovel Press on its return and discusses the Morongo Indian Reservation, criticizing the development of casinos and discount stores.

Page 52: This page features an advertisement for PARANOIA magazine, detailing its coverage of conspiracy subjects like Waco, alien abductions, and the militia movement. It also includes an advertisement for FREE CITIZEN magazine. The reader letter from page 51 continues, discussing the Morongo tribe's casino and their shift from welfare to suits, contrasting them with the Agua Caliente tribe's successful land leasing.

Page 53: This page begins with a continuation of the discussion on the Morongo tribe and their land. It then transitions to a tribute to Jim Keith by Wayne Henderson. Henderson recounts Keith's death from a blood clot after a knee injury, mentioning the controversies surrounding it and Keith's extensive work on conspiracy topics. Henderson also lists many individuals who knew and loved Keith. The page also includes details about Keith's books and mentions his passing.

Page 54: This page continues Wayne Henderson's tribute to Jim Keith, reflecting on his belief in truth and the importance of the search for it. Henderson suggests Keith is now comparing notes with other notable figures like Malcolm X, Karen Silkwood, Jessica Savitch, and Danny Casolaro. The page also includes quotes from "Mein Kampf" and a discussion on mind control and surveillance technology, suggesting that true mind control capabilities are concealed.

Page 55: This page contains a letter discussing the ruling class and their methods of control, drawing parallels to historical figures and events. It mentions Jim Keith as a 'target of opportunity' rather than a direct target of a massive conspiracy. The page also includes a quote from "Black Helicopters Over America" by Jim Keith, discussing how the populace is already incarcerated in concentration camps. It also references "A People's History of the United States" by Howard Zinn and a quote from "Secret & Suppressed" by J. Keith.

Page 56: This page continues the discussion on the ruling class and their methods of control, referencing historical events and figures like the Illuminati and the "Alien and Sedition Act." It includes a scene set in a military computer facility where a file on "Keith, James" is being processed, indicating a potential government interest or surveillance.

Page 57: This page continues the narrative from the military computer facility. Clerks are reviewing information on "KEITH, James," identifying him as a conspiracy buff and potential threat. They note his associates and his current hospitalization for a broken leg. The section chief at Fort Rucker has forwarded the case for handling, suggesting a coordinated effort to monitor or deal with Keith.

Page 58: This page concludes Wayne Henderson's tribute to Jim Keith, emphasizing his belief in truth and the importance of the search for it. Henderson expresses his conviction that Jim Keith died for his work and that his death was not a mere accident, given the numerous connections and coincidences. The page also features an advertisement for "Popular Reality" magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Steamshovel are conspiracy theories, government surveillance, occultism, and political dissent. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry into established narratives, particularly concerning historical events, government actions, and societal control mechanisms. There is a strong emphasis on questioning authority and exposing perceived hidden agendas. The magazine also seems to foster a sense of community among those interested in these topics, as evidenced by the reader letters and tributes to contributors like Jim Keith.

This document is a catalog from Steamshovel Press, titled "STEAMSHOVEL SHOPPER!", presenting a collection of conspiracy-related books and media for sale. The tagline "Conspiracy books direct from the source!" and "Think your way out!" sets the tone for the content offered. The catalog lists various titles with their prices and brief descriptions, encouraging direct orders from Steamshovel.

Featured Books and Media

The catalog showcases a wide range of topics within the conspiracy genre:

• UFOs and Alien Encounters:
• "Maury Island UFO" ($15), noted as being discussed on the Art Bell Show.
• "Flying Saucers Over Los Angeles" ($16), covering the late 40s/early 50s UFO wave with early research and color photographs.
• "Flying Saucers Over America" ($20), reproducing early 1950s news articles.
• "Alien Intervention - DVD" ($14.95 sale price, originally $19.95), featuring an interview with Travis Walton about his abduction experience on November 5, 1975, in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
• "The Octopus" ($20), described as a "Casolaro Classic" detailing researcher Danny Casolaro's investigation into PROMIS software, Iran-Contra, October Surprise, Area 51, Pine Gap, and Nugan Hand.
• "The Octopus Supplement" ($20), containing Casolaro's notes.
• "NASA, Nazis and JFK" ($16), which outlines the role of Paperclip Nazis, Defense Industrial Security Command, and Division Five of the FBI in the JFK assassination, with commentary by Kenn Thomas and Len Bracken.
• "NASA/Nazis Supplement" ($20), reprinting articles on the Torbitt Document.
• "NASA/Nazis Supplement 2" ($20), featuring articles on the Jim Garrison JFK case.
• "Kenn Thomas Video" ($20), a VHS anthology of television appearances, including UFO footage at Area 51.

• Counterconspiracy and Cyberculture:
• "Cyberculture Counterconspiracy, Volumes One and Two" ($20), featuring content from the Steamshovel web site.

• Historical and Political Conspiracies:
• "Inside the Gemstone File" ($16), discussing the Onassis kidnappings of Howard Hughes and the notorious conspiracy rant, including a Gemstone letter and James Bond connection.
• "Mind Control Oswald & JFK" ($16), reprinting "Were We Controlled?" from 1968, with a new introduction and photos.
• "Christ Conspiracy by Acharya S" ($20), with an introduction by Kenn Thomas.
• "Arch Conspirator by Len Bracken" ($16), with an introduction by Kenn Thomas.
• "Popular Alienation" ($20), anthologizing Steamshovel back issues.

• Audio and Video:
• "Jim Keith Radio Special" ($12), two 90-minute cassettes discussing Jim Keith's work and death.

• Other Media:
• "Forbidden Archeology - DVD" ($17.95 sale price, originally $24.95), a comprehensive 2-DVD set based on Michael Cremo's work on the hidden history of the human race, challenging scientific views on human origins.

Television and Radio Programs

The catalog also promotes various television and radio programs:

• OSI 74 Programming:
• "12:01 Beyond": An overnight program showcasing gems and oddities in the spirit of "Night Flight."
• "CULT MOVIES TV": Founders of CULT MOVIES magazine, Buddy Barnett and Michael Copner, explore the wild and weird movie world.
• "In Spite Of... Reality": A documentary series hosted by Mr. Lobo, covering Bigfoots, Nazis, and UFOs.

• Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis: A nightly radio program from 8 PM to 12 AM Pacific, accessible at http://www.groundzeromedia.org.

• Conspiracy Channel: Offers thousands of hours of conspiracy, UFO, and paranormal films and series, with a coupon code "STEAMSHOVEL" for 2 months free.

Ordering and Subscription Information

• Ordering: Checks or money orders should be made payable to "Kenn Thomas." Credit cards are not accepted.
• Shipping Charges: Detailed rates are provided for US (book rate, priority mail, UPS) and international (surface, air mail) shipping. Additional charges apply for airmail subscriptions.
• Subscription: A subscription for four issues costs $23, a single issue is $6, and back issues are $10 each (some available as photocopies).
• Contact: The mailing address for Steamshovel Press is POB 23715, St. Louis, MO 63121. Email is [email protected], and the website is www.steamshovelpress.com.

• Equipment Request: Steamshovel is seeking donations of a Pentium 133 computer with specific hardware for their operations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this catalog are UFOs, alien encounters, government conspiracies, hidden histories, and alternative explanations for historical events. The editorial stance, as indicated by "ALL CONSPIRACY. NO THEORY.", suggests a focus on presenting information and evidence related to conspiracies, leaving interpretation to the reader. The encouragement to "Think your way out!" and "Tell your friends! Why not send them this copy? It's ok!" promotes the dissemination of this information and a community of like-minded individuals.