Steamshovel Press - Issue 19

Magazine Overview

Title: STEAMSHOVELPRESS
Issue: #19
Date: Summer 2002
Publisher: Feral House
Tagline: ALL CONSPIRACY. NO THEORY.

This issue of Steamshovel Press, number 19, published in Summer 2002, presents a collection of articles delving into various conspiracy theories, parapolitics, and controversial topics. The magazine's editorial stance, as indicated by its tagline, is to present information related to conspiracies without necessarily adhering to a strict theoretical framework, leaving interpretation to the reader.

Featured Articles and Content

Nine Eleven Epilogue by Kenn Thomas

This article explores the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, focusing on the alleged role of the PROMIS software. It discusses how PROMIS, a legendary and factual software, is rumored to have been used for extrapolation capabilities, including filling in visual contents of long-distance photos. The article also touches upon the 'smart card' technology and its surveillance potential. It details a report by an Irish nationalist known as 'McGuffin,' claiming that Osama Bin Laden evaded capture by using a version of PROMIS passed to the Russians by FBI turncoat Robert Hanssen. The Justice Department's complaint against Hanssen is mentioned, noting his use of FOIMS and COIN systems, believed to be upgraded versions of PROMIS. The article further elaborates on 'McGuffin's' claims about Bill Hamilton of Inslaw and the 'Enhanced PROMIS' software. Michael Riconosciuto's alleged meeting with Bin Laden in 1986 is also recounted, where Riconosciuto proposed selling missile launchers.

Discordian History by Adam Gorightly

This section, indicated on the cover, likely explores the history and tenets of Discordianism, a modern religion or parody religion centered on chaos and disorder.

Acharya S Looks At Extreme Islam

This piece features Acharya S examining 'Extreme Islam: Anti-American Propaganda of Muslim Fundamentalism,' edited by Adam Parfrey. The review highlights quotes from LA Weekly and the New York Press, describing the book as "enlightening, disturbing and often frightening" and noting its "lucid, poignant and poetic" content.

Whither UFOLOGY? By Greg Bishop

Greg Bishop's contribution likely discusses the current state and future direction of ufology, the study of unidentified flying objects.

Dialogue in Hell by Len Bracken

This article presents a 'Dialogue in Hell' between Ted Koppel and Tim McVeigh, suggesting a critical or satirical examination of public figures or ideologies.

Bush's Mind Games

This is a general heading that likely encompasses articles related to political strategies, intelligence operations, or psychological tactics employed by the Bush administration.

Running on Emptiness: The Pathology of Civilization by John Zerzan

This section reviews John Zerzan's book, which is described as a philosophical exploration of civilization's pathology. Quotes from Derrick Jensen praise Zerzan as a significant philosopher whose work points towards the "unmaking of civilization."

Sexuality, Magic and Perversion by Francis King

This review covers Francis King's book, which has been reissued by Feral House. The book explores the use of sexuality in various religious and occult traditions, aiming to achieve Divine Union, and examines practices from fertility cults to Crowleyan sex magick.

Other Contributors and Topics

The issue also mentions contributions from Jim DeMeo, Rob Sterling, Al Martin, and Robin Ramsay. Topics like "Neo-Lamarckianism" and "JFK" are also listed, indicating a broad range of conspiracy and alternative history subjects.

Mind Games: What the President Knows by Jan Weisemann

This article questions whether George Bush Sr. used counterintelligence mind control technology to cover up an embarrassing intelligence failure at the end of the Gulf War. It details the 'Lethal Finding' signed by Bush Sr. in November 1991, which authorized the overthrow of Saddam Hussein even if it involved innocent fatalities. The article also touches upon the destruction of records related to this period and quotes Dick Cheney's suggestion that the US did not act against Hussein because they didn't know what to do with him, contrasting this with the author's suspicion of a national security foul-up. The author recounts an experience in Los Angeles involving an approach to the CIA and a potential recruitment related to East-German STASI.

Notes and References

Several notes and references are provided, citing internet postings, articles from publications like The Washington Times and CNN EbizAsia, and correspondence with authors. These notes often provide further details or context for the claims made in the main articles, particularly concerning PROMIS, the Octopus card system, and intelligence operations.

Biowarfare Scare

An eerie footnote discusses a biowarfare scare that accompanied the 'terror war,' referencing Jim Keith's book 'Biowarfare In America.' It mentions Larry Wayne Harris's claim of an assassination attempt and several suspicious deaths among microbiologists in late 2001, linked to closteridium bacteria.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Steamshovel Press are deeply rooted in conspiracy theories, government overreach, intelligence operations, and alternative historical narratives. The magazine consistently questions official accounts of major events, such as 9/11 and the Gulf War, suggesting hidden agendas and manipulations by powerful entities. The use of software like PROMIS for surveillance and control, the potential for mind control technology, and the exploration of controversial religious and political ideologies are prominent. The editorial stance, while not explicitly stating theories, encourages critical thinking and independent investigation by presenting a wide array of controversial information and sources, allowing the reader to "decide."

The magazine positions itself as a platform for "All Conspiracy. No Theory.," indicating a commitment to exploring the landscape of conspiratorial thought without necessarily endorsing specific conclusions. This approach aims to provoke thought and challenge conventional understandings of current affairs and historical events.

This issue of "All conspiracy. No theory." is a sample publication from Steamshovel Press, dated January 4, 1993, with a cover price of $7. The magazine's central theme revolves around conspiracy theories, government secrecy, and unconventional interpretations of historical and scientific events.

Personal Account of Surveillance and Counterintelligence

The issue begins with a detailed personal account from the author regarding alleged government surveillance and counterintelligence operations. The author describes attempting to obtain a file on themselves through FOIA requests submitted to the FBI, CIA, and INS. While the FBI and CIA deny having a file, the INS claims to have one that cannot be located. The author's lawyer reportedly suffered a mental breakdown, halting the FOIA process. The author also claims to have defected from the CIA, prevented a STASI coup against Saddam Hussein, and influenced the U.S. Congress to support Bill Clinton, leading to the collapse of George Bush's re-election campaign. Further incidents include being placed under surveillance by French officials and recruited as an agent by German police for five days. The CIA's announcement in March 1993 about a document revealing the head of the French DGSE, Claude Silberzahn, attempting to spy on American companies is also discussed, with the author noting a resemblance between Silberzahn and the leader of the French troop involved in his surveillance.

Geopolitical Commentary and Historical Events

The magazine touches upon several geopolitical events and historical incidents. The author recounts preventing a STASI plot to massacre innocent civilians in Iraq in July 1992. The TWA Flight 800 crash in July 1996 is mentioned, with the author suggesting the FBI did not consider it a possible act of revenge for the STASI plot. The issue also references the 1992 U.S. presidential election, the Middle East peace process, and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinians, particularly in the context of Osama bin Laden's rhetoric.

Scientific Debate: Evolution and Lamarckism

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the scientific debate surrounding evolution, focusing on the contrast between Darwin's theory of natural selection and Lamarck's theory of the inheritance of acquired characteristics. The author, Kenn Thomas, argues that Cold War politics and conspiracy history have inhibited a full understanding of evolution. The article delves into the work of Arthur Koestler and Paul Kammerer, who attempted to prove Lamarckian principles using the Midwife toad. The text critiques the scientific establishment's adherence to Darwinian principles and the rejection of Lamarckism, suggesting it has become an outdated dogma. The concept of the 'Weissman barrier' is presented as a counterargument to Lamarckian inheritance.

Critique of Middle Eastern Regimes and Terrorism

The magazine includes commentary on Middle Eastern countries and the issue of terrorism. It describes Arab Muslim countries as fascist dictatorships with leaders who have no interest in human freedom. The rhetoric of Osama bin Laden is analyzed, with the author suggesting he has a 'legitimate beef' but is not necessarily a 'freedom fighter.' The issue quotes bin Laden's fatwa from 1998, which calls for the killing of Americans and their allies. The article also critiques the Western world's role in supporting certain Middle Eastern leaders and its foreign policy, which it suggests contributes to the conflict.

Book Reviews and References

The issue features references to various books and articles, including those by Roger Hilsman, Christopher Andrew, Patrick E. Tyler, Jon Wiener, Tom Blanton, Scott Armstrong, Athan Theoharis, and George Lardner, Jr. It also mentions Adam Gorightly's book, "The Shadow Over Santa Susana," and provides links to online resources related to Palestinian and Arab extremism, and the history of evolution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of the magazine is the exploration of "conspiracy theories" and the idea that conventional narratives, whether political, historical, or scientific, are often incomplete or deliberately manipulated. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official accounts and a belief that hidden agendas and covert operations are prevalent. The magazine champions alternative interpretations and encourages readers to question established truths, as reflected in its title, "All conspiracy. No theory."

This issue of Steamshovel Press, identified as a Sample Issue with a price of $7 and a four-issue subscription costing $25, features content related to conspiracy theories, political commentary, and alternative belief systems. The publication is based in St. Louis, MO, with a POB of 210553. The issue date is November 1963, though the content appears to be from a later period, as indicated by the references to Tim McVeigh and the Oklahoma City bombing.

Castle Mirage: A JFK Redux

This section, written by T. Casey Brennan, presents a fictionalized first-person account of the JFK assassination, titled 'Castle Mirage'. The narrator, a fifteen-year-old boy, describes being awakened by 'Daddy' and taken to a Yale airport to meet 'Dr. E' and David Ferrie. He recounts being injected and subsequently finding himself in the Texas Book Depository building in Dallas. In a highly disturbing narrative, the narrator is coerced into firing a shot at President Kennedy, with David Ferrie firing additional shots. The account details the hypnotic commands, the visual targets on a screen, and the subsequent interactions with Ferrie and 'Daddy', including a confrontation with Lee Harvey Oswald.

The narrative continues with the narrator's disorientation and attempts to process the events, including a strange encounter with a figure called 'Ultra Subaltern'. The narrator is later taken to Peck High School, where he is instructed to forget the events. The story concludes with reflections on 'little mice', experiments, and the nature of reality, questioning whether life is but a dream.

Dialogue in Hell: Ted Koppel and Tim McVeigh

This section features a transcribed dialogue between Ted Koppel and Tim McVeigh, conducted by Len Bracken. The interview explores McVeigh's perspective on the Oklahoma City bombing, his views on fascism, and his philosophical stance. McVeigh asserts that the 'real story' of the bombing has not been told and that his role was orchestrated by 'police spies' within a 'military-industrial-entertainment complex'. He criticizes 'free-marketeers' and their role in creating fragmentation and global inequality, drawing parallels to fascism.

McVeigh distinguishes his brand of anarchism from that of the Unabomber and Ramzi Yousef, noting that while he sought freedom from oppression, his focus was on state institutions, whereas the Unabomber focused on industrial production. He also discusses his interactions with other inmates, including Kaczynski, and expresses a critical view of the media and the 'ruling class'. McVeigh defines fascism by its racism, xenophobia, and televised populism, and suggests that the current elite uses events like the Oklahoma City bombing to institute repression.

A Brief History of Discordianism

This excerpt, from a book in progress by Adam Gorightly titled 'Zen and the Art of Mind Control: The Life and Times of Kerry Wendell Thornley', provides a history of the Discordian Society. It traces the origins of Discordianism to philosophical debates between Kerry Thornley and Greg Hill in bowling alleys in Yorba Linda, California, in the late 1950s. The movement's foundational text, the 'Principia Discordia', is described as a humorous and irreverent religious tract.

The text explains that Discordianism is a 'spoof' religion dedicated to Eris, the Greek Goddess of Chaos. It details the legend of the 'Original Snub', where Eris was excluded from a banquet, leading to the creation of the Apple of Discord and the Trojan War. The article also touches upon the Law of Fives, the Five Commandments, and the Five Apostles of Eris. The practice of 'Erisinaism', or 'Operation Mindphuck' (OP), is described as a method of skewing reality to achieve illumination. The author notes that while humor is central, Discordianism should not be dismissed lightly, as it aims to lead to greater wisdom.

The history mentions key figures such as Kerry Thornley (Omar Khayyam Ravenhurst) and Greg Hill (Malaclypse the Younger), and Bob Newport (Rev. Hypocrates Magoun). It also references the symbolic representation of the Sacred Chao and the concept of 'The Revelation' from Eris.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around conspiracy, hidden histories, and alternative belief systems. The editorial stance, as suggested by the publication's name 'Steamshovel Press' and the tagline 'All conspiracy. No theory.', is to explore and present unconventional narratives and viewpoints, particularly those that challenge mainstream accounts of historical events and societal structures. The magazine appears to be a platform for counter-cultural ideas, political dissent, and explorations of esoteric or fringe topics like Discordianism and the JFK assassination.

The issue critically examines established power structures, media narratives, and political ideologies, offering perspectives that are often critical and skeptical of official accounts. The inclusion of the Tim McVeigh interview highlights a willingness to engage with controversial figures and ideas, aiming to present their perspectives, however challenging.

The overall tone is one of investigation and presentation of alternative realities, encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom and explore the 'hidden' aspects of history and society.

Title: All conspiracy. No theory.
Issue: Sample Issue
Publisher: STEAMSHOVEL PRESS
Country: USA
Date: Approximately 2001-09-11 (based on content)

This issue of 'All conspiracy. No theory.' is a collection of articles exploring various conspiracy theories, government overreach, and alternative perspectives on current events and historical incidents. The magazine adopts a critical stance towards official narratives and mainstream media, encouraging readers to question authority and seek deeper truths.

Discordianism and the Absurd

The issue begins with a personal reflection on Discordianism, a philosophy that embraces the absurd and chaos as valid aspects of existence. The author, while not a formal member, relates to its spirit. The text explains the origins of Discordianism, its division into factions like the Erisian Liberation Front (ELF) and The Paratheo-Anametamystikhood of Eris Esoteric (POEE), and the concept of 'catma' over 'dogma'. A personal anecdote recounts the author being granted 'Discordian Pope-hood' and adopting the name 'The Wrong Reverend Houdini Kundalini'.

Letter from the UK: Post 9/11 Reflections

Written by Robin Ramsay, this section reflects on the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent rise of conspiracy theories. Ramsay discusses the overwhelming amount of information and speculation available online, noting that within hours, many had concluded the event was a 'phony' or 'stunt'. He questions the feasibility of al-Qaeda's alleged capabilities, citing the complexity of flying commercial airliners into targets with precision, and references military pilot comments suggesting the need for highly skilled pilots or remote control. The article also brings up the historical context of 'Operation Northwood,' a set of proposals from the 1960s that outlined pretexts for US military intervention in Cuba, including staged terror attacks. Ramsay draws a parallel between 9/11 and the JFK assassination, noting that while the scale of 9/11 is larger, the speed at which conspiracy theories emerged was significantly faster due to the internet.

Book Review: Extreme Islam

This section features a review by Acharya S of the book 'Extreme Islam: Anti-American Propaganda of Muslim Fundamentalism,' edited by Adam Parfrey. The reviewer argues that Islam is not a peaceful religion but has historically been a cause of violence and agitation. The review criticizes the notion of 'peaceful Islam,' asserting that Islamic holy texts call for the death of 'infidels.' The book is presented as an effort to expose the 'true nature' of Islam, suggesting that terrorist acts are not the work of a 'deranged few' but are consistent with Islamic tenets. The reviewer warns that ignoring these facts is dangerous and urges readers to understand Islam's reality.

The Greatest Danger To America by Al Martin

This lengthy article by Al Martin, a whistleblower and retired naval intelligence officer, critiques the creation of the Office of Homeland Security and its implications for American civil liberties. Martin argues that the agency, along with the proposed Supreme National Security Council, represents a significant threat to freedoms, potentially leading to the suspension of habeas corpus, unlimited surveillance, and the gutting of the Freedom of Information Act. He highlights the agency's immunity from judicial review and its power to seize assets without due process. The article also discusses the revival of 'sedition acts,' which could be used to label publications as seditious and prevent their dissemination. Martin expresses concern over the public's willingness to sacrifice liberties in the name of security, the immense financial cost of proposed measures, and the potential for a massive inflationary impact due to deficit financing and the abandonment of a strong dollar policy. He warns that this period could see the largest transfer of rights and liberties from the people back to the government in US history.

Saucer Section: When Will They Ever Learn? The Strange Case of the Unrepentant UFO Researchers

This article by Greg Bishop revisits the history of UFO research, mentioning early cases like Barney and Betty Hill and Antonio Villas-Boas. The author recounts meeting Bill Moore in 1989 and learning about his involvement with the Air Force Office of Special Intelligence (AFOSI) and his cooperation with them to monitor UFO researcher Paul Bennewitz. Bishop criticizes the UFO community for its continued naivete and susceptibility to manipulation by domestic intelligence interests. He contrasts the current state of UFO research with the past, questioning the effectiveness of efforts to gain 'respectability' and criticizing figures like Steven Greer for rallying around issues that do not concern the general population.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is skepticism towards official narratives and a deep concern for the erosion of civil liberties in the post-9/11 era. The magazine champions 'conspiracy theories' as a means of uncovering hidden truths and challenges the public's passive acceptance of government actions. The editorial stance is clearly anti-establishment, critical of mainstream media, and advocates for a heightened awareness of potential government overreach and manipulation. The articles collectively suggest that a significant shift is occurring in the balance of power between the government and the citizenry, with a dangerous concentration of authority and a diminishing of individual rights.

This document is a sample issue of Steamshovel Press, a publication dedicated to "All conspiracy. No theory." It functions as a zine focusing on the parapolitical scene, with a strong emphasis on conspiracy theories and UFO phenomena. The issue is characterized by its deep dives into controversial topics, often questioning official narratives and exploring hidden histories.

Content Analysis

The lead article on page 1 discusses the difficulties of achieving "disclosure" regarding UFOs and the potential for government secrecy. It critiques the approach of some UFO groups, suggesting they may be infiltrated or focused on less substantive issues. The author expresses skepticism about the depth of knowledge held by official bodies, comparing it to the limited understanding of private investigators. The article mentions figures like Greer and Steve, and references the idea of being "Paul Bennewitz'ed," implying a long-term disinformation campaign. It also introduces researcher Randy Koppang and his work with the Advanced Theoretical Physics Working Group (ATPWG), which aimed to "plan and set policy regarding the UFO issue." Notable alleged members of ATPWG include Hal Puthoff and Jacques Vallee, with Col. John Alexander and Ed Dames admitting participation.

Another section highlights "Heretic's Notebook: Pulse of the Planet #5," edited by James DeMeo, which presents research in biogenesis and orgone biophysics, alongside UFO research and book reviews. This issue features articles by 17 authors on diverse subjects, including natural childbirth, sexuality, Reich's orgonomic functionalism, and ether-drift discoveries.

The magazine extensively promotes its own back issues, books, and subscription services. A significant portion of the document is dedicated to listing and describing available back issues of Steamshovel Press, covering topics such as interviews with prominent conspiracy figures (e.g., Dick Gregory, Jim Marrs, Robert Anton Wilson, Timothy Leary), analyses of historical events (JFK assassination, Iran-Contra), and explorations of specific cases (Area 51, UFOs, mind control). Specific book titles advertised include "Inside the Gemstone File," "Cyberculture Counterconspiracy," "The Octopus: Secret Government and the Death of Danny Casolaro," and "Maury Island UFO, The Crisman Conspiracy." The latter book is presented as a comprehensive examination of the Maury Island incident, detailing its connection to Fred Crisman, who was also identified by Jim Garrison as a potential suspect in the JFK assassination.

Several other related media and services are advertised. TheUFOstore.com offers a wide selection of UFO-related DVDs, audio CDs, and other merchandise, featuring titles like "Alien Intervention" (starring Travis Walton) and "Forbidden Archeology" (featuring Michael Cremo). OSI 74 promotes programs such as "12:01 Beyond" and "Cult Movies TV." Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis is advertised as a nightly radio show focusing on conspiracy and the paranormal. Adventures Unlimited offers a catalog of unusual books and DVDs. Finally, Conspiracy Channel provides "1000's of hours of Conspiracy, UFO and Paranormal Films & Series."

Key Incidents and Cases

• Travis Walton Abduction: Described as one of the most controversial and compelling UFO cases, occurring on November 5, 1975, in Arizona, where Walton reported seeing a "luminous object, shaped like a flattened disc" before being abducted.
• Maury Island Incident: Occurring in 1947 near Tacoma, Washington, this incident involved six flying saucers circling above a harbor, with one spewing slag that killed a dog and injured a boy. The case is linked to Fred Crisman, who was also implicated in the JFK assassination.
• Donald Ware's UFO Sighting: On July 26, 1952, Donald Ware, a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, reported seeing seven alien vehicles over Washington, D.C.

Notable Figures and Researchers

• Greer: Mentioned in the context of promoting his message.
• Randy Koppang: A Californian researcher who, with abductee Melinda Leslie, uncovered the ATPWG.
• Hal Puthoff: Alleged member of ATPWG, described as a physicist/parapsychological researcher.
• Jacques Vallee: Alleged member of ATPWG.
• Col. John Alexander: Admitted participant in ATPWG, referred to as "Grey Ghost."
• Ed Dames: Admitted participant in ATPWG.
• Col. Phillip Corso: Mentioned in relation to "the big secret."
• Greg Bishop: Author of "Excluded Middle" zine.
• James DeMeo: Editor of "Heretic's Notebook."
• Michael Cremo: Author of "Forbidden Archeology."
• Travis Walton: Subject of an abduction case featured on DVD.
• Donald Ware: Retired U.S. Air Force officer who reported a UFO sighting.
• Jim Keith: Featured in back issues and promoted in relation to his work and death rumors.
• Robert Anton Wilson: Featured in back issues.
• Mae Brussell: Her secret service file is mentioned in back issues.

Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of Steamshovel Press is clearly aligned with the "conspiracy" perspective, as stated in its tagline "All conspiracy. No theory." The publication actively promotes alternative narratives, questions official accounts, and provides a platform for researchers and writers exploring hidden aspects of history, government actions, and unexplained phenomena. It positions itself as a source for information that is not readily available through mainstream channels, emphasizing a critical and often skeptical approach to established truths.

Recurring Themes

Recurring themes in this issue include:

• Government Secrecy and Disclosure: The challenges and potential manipulations surrounding the release of information about UFOs and paranormal events.
• UFO Sightings and Abductions: Detailed accounts and analyses of prominent UFO cases, such as Travis Walton and Maury Island.
• Covert Operations and Intelligence: Exploration of secret groups, intelligence agencies, and their potential involvement in UFO phenomena and historical events (e.g., JFK assassination).
• Alternative History and Archaeology: Challenging conventional views on human origins and ancient history, as seen in "Forbidden Archeology."
• Mind Control and Psychological Operations: Investigations into the use of mind control techniques and their implications.
• Promotion of Related Media: Extensive advertising for books, magazines, DVDs, and radio shows that align with the publication's conspiratorial focus.

This document is a single promotional page from Steamshovel Press, a publication that identifies itself with the tagline "ALL CONSPIRACY. NO THEORY." It appears to be the final page of an issue, designed to encourage reader engagement and dissemination.

Content

The page features the Steamshovel Press logo prominently at the top, which includes an all-seeing eye within a pyramid. Below the logo, the tagline "ALL CONSPIRACY. NO THEORY." is displayed.

The main text of the page is a direct appeal to the reader: "DID YOU ENJOY THE ISSUE? TELL YOUR FRIENDS! WHY NOT SEND THEM THIS COPY? IT'S OK!". This suggests a desire for organic growth and word-of-mouth promotion.

Further down, a clear call to action is provided: "VISIT HTTP://WWW.STEAMSHOVEL.PRESS FOR MORE FREE ISSUES AND AMAZING ARTICLES!". This directs interested readers to the publisher's website, promising additional content without charge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The core theme is clearly "conspiracy." The "NO THEORY" part of the tagline might imply a focus on presenting alleged facts or events as they are, without speculative interpretation, or it could be a provocative statement to attract attention. The editorial stance, as presented on this page, is one of open sharing and encouragement for readers to spread the publication's content. The emphasis is on accessibility, with free issues and articles offered online.