Vimana - Vol 01 No 02 - 1954

Magazine Overview

Title: The Vimana
Issue Date: November 15, 1954
Publisher: Detroit Flying Saucer Club
Volume: One, Number 2

This issue of "The Vimana," the official publication of the Detroit Flying Saucer Club (DFSC), focuses on the resurgence of public interest in Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), the club's activities, and broader discussions on societal and cosmic changes.

Revival of "Day the Earth Stood Still" Augurs Public Increased Interest in U.F.O.'s

The lead article highlights the renewed popularity of the 1951 Twentieth Century-Fox film, "The Day the Earth Stood Still," noting its revival in the East and a successful week in New York City. The film's popularity is attributed to its compelling combination of story, production, drama, and climax, which resonates deeply with saucer enthusiasts. The article suggests that the film's realistic portrayal of a 'Spaceman' escaping Earth is more profound than fiction. Due to its popularity, the film was scheduled for redistribution in leading American theaters in early 1955.

Why Was Major Keyhoe's Appearance Cancelled?

This section addresses the unexpected cancellation of Major Keyhoe's scheduled lectures in November and December. The DFSC expressed regret for not being aware of the cancellation sooner and apologized to members who had made arrangements to attend. The club announced that in the future, they would use FRONT PAGE LINER ADS in The DETROIT NEWS to verify important out-of-town lecturer events or their cancellations. Members who had purchased tickets for Keyhoe's event were instructed to mail them back for a refund.

"THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL" (Continued)

This continuation of the film review includes an anecdote from John Hoffman about a fellow worker at Sparton Radio who wished he could have shot at a saucer. The article praises the film's universality and the enobling purpose it half-revealed.

Other Saucer Groups Receive DFSC Petition

The DFSC's petition to the government, requesting President Eisenhower to release suppressed U.F.O. information, is discussed. The article notes that private citizens everywhere are making similar requests, citing a letter from Flint, Michigan, that appeared in the Detroit Free Press. The petition has gathered approximately 1000 names and calls for the government to make an honest acknowledgment of UFO phenomena, foster cooperation, clear the atmosphere of fear and suspicion, renew confidence in public officials, and potentially divert attention from atomic war towards spiritual and social values. Several other saucer clubs, including "THE LITTLE LISTENING POST" and "Saucer's International," are adopting or copying the petition. The DFSC anticipates that national commentators like Drew Pearson and Elmer Davis will receive copies.

Coming World Changes

This section reviews a talk by George Hunt Williamson presented at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Williamson discussed vast physical, mental, and spiritual changes occurring on Earth, related to the Solar System's movement into a new area of the Universe. He attributed strange weather phenomena, earthquakes, and floods to the increased vibratory rate, noting that atomic detonations are accentuating an already weakened condition. Williamson predicted more disasters and saucer sightings, with discs potentially seen on the ground. He also spoke of mental changes, with people realizing mankind is at a crossroads. He emphasized that those who refuse to accept new lessons will eliminate themselves from the "New Age program." He stated that the world is not ending, and only the good and beautiful will be inherited. He concluded by advocating for the integration of science and religion, praying for understanding.

Laura Marxer Accepts Opportunity to Spread Saucer Message Thru Saucer Research Society

Laura Marxer, Vice-President of the DFSC, is leaving the club to accept a wider opportunity in saucer research. She is associating with Robert Chapek and Frank Clark to launch the Saucer Research Society, which aims to promote saucer research throughout Michigan and other states. They will use "THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL" as lecture material. The DFSC acknowledges her significant contributions, including breaking newspaper prejudice and coordinating sightings, and wishes her well.

Dave Garroway Broadcast and Reply

This section mentions a comment by Dave Garroway about a man mistaking a car repairman for a space intruder. Garroway suggested that if one saw a man from another planet, they should welcome him with love. Laura Marxer wrote to Garroway, thanking him for his words and mentioning the DFSC. Garroway replied, thanking her for her letter and the copy of "The Vimana."

Several Noted Celebrities Hear About Detroit Flying Saucer Club Activities

The DFSC chairman met "Singapore" Joe Fisher, a world-traveller, at a lecture by George Hunt Williamson at the Art Institute. Fisher's introduction to the saucer story was through George Adamski. Also present was Wing Commander David Babinau and Colonel John D. Craig, an author and lecturer. Colonel Craig, impressed by the talk, agreed to be the DFSC's February speaker, presenting on "ATOMS AND ATOLLS--An Adventure Into Time," which discusses the spiritual side of science in the Atomic Era and the potential for Utopia through new knowledge from the bomb blast. The lecture is scheduled for Friday, February 25th, at the Masonic Temple.

Additionally, the DFSC is featured in a two-page article by Paul Chandler in the November issue of "DAC NEWS," the official publication of the Detroit Athletic Club, which is considered one of the finest club magazines in the nation.

Discussion Groups

The DFSC has expanded its Neighborhood Discussion Groups by three units. These groups aim to discuss the Flying Saucer Story more individually. Leaders are being appointed and will meet with DFSC officers to establish a discussion format. A list of group leaders and their addresses in Detroit and suburban areas is provided, along with information on an Astronomical Group and a Science Group in formation.

A Letter to the Editor

Baird Wallace writes from Allen Park, Michigan, expressing how deeply moved he was by the recent lectures presented by the DFSC, featuring Desmond Leslie and Dr. Williamson. He feels a sense of urgency regarding the current situation of individuals, society, and the universe, and offers his services to assist in easing pain and accelerating understanding. Wallace notes a widespread dissatisfaction with the "inconsequential rush and feverish egotism" of the 20th century, despite global hardships, and calls this a "glorious time to be alive" with precious thoughts and answers. He concludes with a prayer for guidance.

Hate (Poem)

A poem titled "Hate" by James Stephens is included. It explores the nature of hate and the possibility of questioning its origins in the future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the growing public interest in UFOs, fueled by popular culture like the film "The Day the Earth Stood Still." There is a strong emphasis on the need for government transparency regarding UFO phenomena, as evidenced by the DFSC's petition. The publication also delves into broader philosophical and spiritual discussions, particularly concerning "Coming World Changes" and the integration of science and religion, as articulated by George Hunt Williamson. The DFSC positions itself as a central hub for these discussions, actively organizing lectures, discussion groups, and engaging with other organizations and media. The editorial stance appears to be one of earnest inquiry, a belief in the significance of UFO phenomena, and a forward-looking perspective on humanity's spiritual and scientific evolution.

This issue of "The Detroit Flying Saucer Club" newsletter, dated December 5, 1954, focuses on the challenges and responsibilities associated with organizing a club dedicated to the study of UFO phenomena. The publication emphasizes the importance of disseminating "ACTUAL SAUCER FACTS AND TRUTHS" and expresses a strong disapproval of hoaxes and "phoney-up" claims.

Dilemmas of a Saucer Club

The lead article, "DILEMMA'S OF A SAUCER CLUB....", highlights the rewards and penalties of organizing such a group. The officers and board members are committed to a purposeful dissemination of facts but acknowledge the difficulties. The piece warns against using the "Saucer theme" as a prank, stating that it "desecrates the time of sincere people searching for truth" and involves playing with potentially dangerous forces.

Material Research and Cover Art

A significant announcement details a committee appointment to the DFSC Material Research Department. Leonard Davidson of the Detroit Police Department (Detective Bureau) is examining a sample of "Snowy White substance" contributed by "Pontiac friends." Preliminary tests in the Detroit Police Department's Testing Laboratory have shown "no traceable similarity to any known element," with further judgment reserved until the next meeting.

The cover for the publication, titled "The Vimana," is noted as being a contribution from "our friend and Director, Howard Kehl," a professional artist. The drawing is described as a "fine Saucer drawing" serving as a permanent cover for their monthly herald.

Recommended Reading

This section offers a curated list of books and publications for readers interested in flying saucers, categorized by their level of engagement:

• For Beginners: "FLYING SAUCERS FROM OUTER SPACE" by Major Donald A. Keyhoe is recommended for basic facts.
• For Historical and Contactual Verification: "Flying Saucers Have Landed" by Desmond Leslie and George Adamski is suggested.
• For Philosophic Interest: "THE SAUCERS SPEAK!" by Dr. George Hunt (Ric) Williamson and Al Bailey, which discusses contact via Radiotelegraphy, is mentioned. Ric Williamson is identified as an anthropologist.
• For Engineering and Mechanical Interest: Dan Fry's book, "The White Sands Incident," is recommended, with the author noted as a potential January speaker.

Saucer Magazines:

• "The LITTLE LISTENING POST": A newsette released periodically, edited by Clara John, with four issues for $1.00.
• "C.R.I.F.O. NEWSLETTER": Edited by Len H. Stringfield, this gazette is described as teeming with factual data and scientific in nature. Subscription price is not determined.
• "THE SAUCER SENTINEL": Referred to as "the only Flying Saucer Newspaper," edited by David W. Opperman, with six issues for $1.00.

The publication "The Vimana" is also mentioned, with "extreme modesty."

The Detroit Flying Saucer Club Organization

The newsletter provides details about the Detroit Flying Saucer Club itself. It is described as an independent, democratic, non-profit organization dedicated to intelligent and sincere investigation from Spiritual, Scientific, and Social viewpoints. The officers are listed as: Henry Maday (President), Laura Marxer (Vice President, inactive), Dolores M. Coyne (Secretary), and John C. Hoffman (Treasurer). Directors include Howard Kehl, Madeline Mende, and Randall Cox.

Inquiries can be directed to their address at 6432 Cass Ave., Detroit 2, Michigan, or by telephone at Trinity 5-7300. The club is actively forming committees in various departments (Social, Scientific, Correspondence, etc.) to integrate efforts and function more smoothly.

Upcoming Programs

The club announces its next program: a "FASCINATING JURY PANEL!" Following four months of speakers, the club is organizing social get-togethers to foster better acquaintance among members. These events are scheduled for Thursday, December 9th (East Side members) and Tuesday, December 14th (West Side members) at the Veteran's Memorial Building in Detroit. The program will feature a "ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION" by group leaders, aiming to accommodate members in a less crowded atmosphere. Audience participation is encouraged, followed by refreshments.

Open Letter to the President

A prominent feature is an "OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES," dated September 22, 1954. The letter, signed by the Detroit Flying Saucer Club, requests an audience to discuss the "coming of Space ships to this earth." It notes that many citizens have observed these objects and that the government appears aware but maintains a policy of "silence and secrecy," which the club believes is "false, fear-provoking and entirely mistaken."

The letter outlines five reasons why this policy is detrimental:

1. The phenomena warrant utmost openness and cooperation.
2. Secrecy reflects poorly on the intelligence and loyalty of American citizens.
3. It encourages fear and distrust, leading to exploitation by unscrupulous individuals.
4. It questions the right of public servants to withhold information gathered with taxpayer facilities.
5. Other countries have publicly acknowledged UFOs and appointed commissions.

The club calls upon the President to change this "shameful and unamerican policy" by making an honest acknowledgment of these phenomena. They suggest that such transparency would encourage citizens to report sightings without fear of ridicule, clear the atmosphere of fear and suspicion, renew confidence in public officials, and potentially divert mankind's attention from atomic war towards a "Cosmic level" of new values.

Correspondence

A letter dated December 5, 1954, from Henry Maday (President) to Mrs. Lary Judith Hyde, addresses the non-receipt of the November issue of "VIMANA." Maday apologizes, assures that a Circulation Editor will be assigned, and thanks Mrs. Hyde for bringing it to their attention. He also encloses a copy of the club's petition in the magazine, hoping it will interest like-minded "Saucerites" to add their names. The letter also mentions that Dan Fry, author of "THE WHITE SANDS INCIDENT," is scheduled to be the January 7th speaker. Mrs. Hyde is invited to visit club meetings if she is in Detroit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the investigation of UFOs based on factual evidence, actively discouraging sensationalism and hoaxes. The club positions itself as a serious organization seeking to inform the public and encourage government transparency on the subject. There is a strong belief in the importance of the phenomena and a desire to elevate public consciousness beyond earthly concerns like atomic war. The editorial stance is one of earnest inquiry, public service, and a call for open communication between citizens and their government regarding extraterrestrial phenomena.