The first earth satellite has been launched by the Russians. It is actually a man made moon.

Inside it is a radio transmitter which will transmit radio signals back to earth. These signals come through in code, which as yet we have been unable to break. The satellite weighs 185 pounds, and has a diameter of 22-1/2 inches.

One of our scientists commented - "We'd better make sure that we get to the moon first or we're headed for trouble." This attitude reflects our certainty that the Russians already have an intercontinental ballistic missile.

Tim Bassler

The Kilt Reporters asked some of Glenridge's science teachers what they thought about Russia putting up the first satellite. Here are their answers....

MR. BAKER: I think they will get useful information that will help them plan for future satellites and rocket ships.

I am glad to know that it is up there to get information even though it is Russian. We've been waiting for something like this for a long time.

MR. BENSON: I think that the first satellite has done much for the world. It has proved that it will stay up and that it will keep in its orbit.

I feel that the Russians getting up the first satellite gives the United States a good solid kick in the pants. I think we won't be so penny wise and pound foolish as in the past. I know American pride in leadership will undoubtedly increase activity in this field.

MR. HAMMOND: Even though we didn't send it up our scientists will learn a lot from it. It does prove that our theory of the thickness of the atmosphere and of gravity are correct. I feel this will speed up the American rocket program.

   I think all students should follow news of the satellite with great interest because scientific history is being made.

  Perhaps some of you have noticed in our second page masthead that the KILT is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the Florida Scholastic Press Association. You may have wondered what these associations are, and what our membership means.

   The Columbia Scholastic Press Association is a national organization for the improvement of high school and junior high school journalism. It provides educational material for its members to aid them in improving their papers. In December, the Kilt will send two issues of every paper we have published this year to be judged in competition with school papers from all over the country. Results of this contest will be announced in the spring.

   The Florida Scholastic Press Association is a similar organization on a state level. It, too, provides educational material and conducts contests, which the Kilt staff plans to enter. In addition, the Florida Scholastic Press Association holds two conferences a year which Kilt staff members will attend.

   "Why join?" you may be asking. The knowledge that we have much to learn from those far more experienced in journalism is our first reason. Running a close second, is our desire to compete in a worthwhile contest. Our various athletic teams represent Glenridge in many sport competitions. Our band enters contests with other bands in the state. Our Homemaking Department participates in cooking and sewing competitions. We feel the school should compete in journalism, too.

   But, perhaps the greatest reason for joining from this sponsor's point of view, is that we hope through developing The Kilt to make you, the students, more aware of improving your skill in using English. And, perhaps, to encourage some of you toward the rewarding profession of journalism.