CUFORG - Vol 2 No 32 - 1989 12

Magazine Overview

Title: Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter
Issue: Volume II, Issue No. 32
Date: December, 1989

This issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter provides a detailed look into the history and ongoing efforts of UFO research in Canada, with a particular focus on government involvement, secrecy, and the challenges faced by civilian investigators. It features articles and reports that span several decades, from the early days of Project Magnet to more recent developments in the late 1980s.

Key Articles and Reports

Guest Speakers and Meetings

The newsletter begins by recapping recent meetings. Shirley Arbuthnot spoke at the September meeting, sharing insights from her experiences and reading from her upcoming book. The group also welcomed her as a new member. In October, David Haisall, author of "The Missing Seven Hours," was the guest speaker. He discussed his background and his previous talk in England. Madeline, a speaker from Sarnia, presented on psychic phenomena and its interrelation with UFOs in November.

"Ufology in Canada: Past, Present & Future" by David A. Haisall

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to a presentation by David A. Haisall, Director of U.P. Investigations Research Inc., given at BUFORA's 2nd London International UFO Congress on May 25, 1981. This article provides a comprehensive historical overview of ufology in Canada.

#### The Canadian Context

Haisall begins by comparing Canada's vast size and sparse population density to the UK, highlighting the challenges this poses for UFO investigation and data collection. He notes that a disproportionate percentage of Canada's population lives in Ontario and Quebec, leaving vast areas with very low population density.

#### Early Government Involvement: Project Magnet

The article details Canada's early involvement in UFO investigation, which began more than three years after the 1947 US incidents. The primary figure in this early phase was Wilbert B. Smith, a senior radio engineer with the Canadian Department of Transport. Smith's research into geo-magnetism led him to speculate about extracting energy from the Earth's magnetic field and its potential connection to flying saucers. He proposed Project Magnet in November 1950, with support from the Defence Research Board (DRB), focusing on geo-magnetic research, though its connection to UFOs was not explicitly stated in the initial proposal.

#### Project Second Storey and Government Secrecy

In early 1952, an increase in UFO sightings, particularly near Royal Canadian Air Force bases, prompted the DRB to form a committee to analyze these reports. This led to the creation of "Project Theta," later renamed "Project Second Storey." Haisall notes the intriguing overlap and dovetailing of activities between Project Magnet and Project Second Storey. Smith's interim report on Project Magnet, submitted in June 1952, suggested that flying saucers were emissaries from other civilizations operating on magnetic principles. However, the minutes of Project Second Storey meetings did not reflect this significant statement, leading Haisall to question whether Smith's findings were deliberately downplayed or ignored.

#### The Shirley's Bay Incident and Cover-up Allegations

On August 3, 1954, instrumentation at the Shirley's Bay installation registered an unusual disturbance, interpreted as a significant deflection by a gravimeter. Despite this detection, the Department of Transport issued a press release admitting to studying UFOs for years but reaching no definite conclusion. Haisall suggests that Project Magnet was dropped but continued unofficially, and that pressure may have been applied to Smith to downplay the Shirley's Bay incident. He cites researcher Greg Kanon, who suggests Smith was "successfully silenced."

#### The Steven Michalak Case

The newsletter recounts the significant Steven Michalak encounter on May 20, 1967. Michalak, a Winnipeg mechanic, claimed to have seen and touched a disc-shaped UFO in the Whiteshell Forest Reserve. The object reportedly emitted intense scarlet glare, changed color, and emitted a strange pungent odor. This case is presented as one that stumped experts and government officials.

#### UFO Sightings Over Ottawa

The article details several UFO sightings in Ottawa, including incidents over Parliament Hill and the Prime Minister's residence in March 1969. These sightings involved objects described as bright flashing red lights and luminous craft. Another incident on June 5, 1969, involved a craft hovering over the Ottawa River, followed by a power outage on Parliament Hill. A later incident on July 20, 1969, involved an orange oval-shaped object seen over Parliament Buildings.

#### Wilbert Smith's Later Work and Legacy

Haisall touches upon Wilbert Smith's later work, including a presentation in 1967 where he discussed creating artificial gravity and altering the Earth's gravitational field. Smith died in 1962 and was posthumously awarded an engineering award for his contributions. His son, Jim Smith, is mentioned as having witnessed "mini-UFOs" or "monitors" during his father's research period.

#### Canadian UFO Research Groups and Unification Efforts

The newsletter discusses the fragmented nature of civilian UFO research in Canada, with numerous groups forming and dissolving. Haisall highlights efforts to unify these groups, such as Brian Cannon's Project SUM and the Canadian UFO Report Exchange Network (CUFOREN). He notes that many groups lack the resources or motivation for serious research, and some are biased in their conclusions.

#### Project UFOCAN

In response to the need for national collaboration, Project UFOCAN was formed on October 1, 1980. It includes representatives from various UFO research organizations across Canada, including Cambridge UFO Research Group, and aims to establish international standards for UFO data and field investigation. Nuclear physicist Stanton Friedman later joined as the sixth member.

#### International Cooperation and Future Directions

Haisall emphasizes the importance of national and international collaboration for UFO research to progress. He suggests that constructive research attracts scientific communities, which in turn garners public support and government attention. He also touches upon the possibility of UFOs being previously unknown natural phenomena or even extraterrestrial intelligence, urging researchers to remain open-minded and avoid bias.

Other Items

• Phone Number: A contact number, 519-658-6775, is provided.
• Address: The Cambridge UFO Research Group is located at 170 Strathcona Street, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada, N3C 1R4.
• Holiday Greeting: A seasonal greeting from Bonnie Wheeler is included.
• Cartoon: A cartoon by "JOHNS" depicts a UFO and asks, "WHAT THE DEVIL DID YOU HIT?!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently highlights the challenges of UFO research in Canada, particularly the perceived government secrecy, lack of official transparency, and the fragmented nature of civilian investigation efforts. There is a strong emphasis on the need for scientific rigor, data standardization, and inter-group cooperation. The editorial stance appears to favor a serious, evidence-based approach to understanding the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the potential for both natural and potentially extraterrestrial explanations. The publication seems to advocate for a more unified and professional approach to Canadian ufology, pushing for greater transparency from government bodies and better coordination among civilian researchers.

Title: The UFO Press
Issue: No. 256
Date: August 1989
Publisher: MUFON UFO Journal
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The UFO Press, published by MUFON UFO Journal, offers a diverse range of content related to the UFO phenomenon. It includes a review of the film 'Communion,' an article exploring the possibility of insect swarms as a source of UFO sightings, and a report on a specific UFO encounter in Australia. The publication also promotes its own subscription services.

Film Review: 'Communion'

The film 'Communion,' starring Christopher Walken as writer Whitley Strieber and Lindsay Crouse as his wife Anne, is reviewed by Kevin Thomas. The film is described as a serious, persuasive attempt to dramatize Strieber's purported contact with aliens. Walken's performance as the life-loving Strieber is highlighted as his showiest role to date. Crouse is noted for her portrayal of a strong woman supporting her husband. The review suggests that director Philippe Mora elevates the film beyond typical sci-fi schlock, though it acknowledges that the literal presentation of the aliens might be challenging for some viewers. Despite potential issues with the aliens' depiction, the film is praised for taking the audience on an incredible journey.

Analysis of Whitley Strieber's 'Transformation'

Robert Wanderer, a MUFON specialist, offers an analysis of Whitley Strieber's book 'Transformation.' Wanderer seeks a middle ground between believers and debunkers, suggesting that while Strieber's claims of alien abductions may not be objectively real, they are not simply fabrications for profit either. He posits that Strieber's experiences might stem from a "dark interior world of the human psyche" or an "atypical state of mind." Wanderer is particularly moved by Strieber's confrontation with his fears, including a walk in the dark woods, which he sees as a significant personal achievement. Dr. Donald Klein, Strieber's psychiatrist, is quoted suggesting that Strieber might be suffering from atypical mental states, possibly related to temporal lobe epilepsy, though tests were inconclusive. Wanderer concludes that 'Transformation' is a powerful description of a troubled man's inner life, making Strieber a sympathetic, even heroic, figure.

UFOs and Migrating Insects

An article by Dennis Stacy discusses the work of biophysicist Phillip Callahan, who proposes that some unidentified flying objects (UFOs) glowing in the night sky could be swarms of migrating insects. Callahan's research suggests that electrical fields generated by storm fronts can cause insect antennae to glow, creating an aura of light. He likens this effect to St. Elmo's fire. A study comparing spruce budworm moth migrations with UFO sightings is mentioned as supporting this hypothesis. However, Philip J. Klass is quoted as believing that insects can only explain a small fraction of UFO sightings.

The UFO Press and MUFON UFO Journal

The publication itself, The UFO Press, is presented as an outlet for the MUFON UFO Journal. The journal is described as a monthly, illustrated publication dedicated to the UFO phenomenon, featuring articles by leading authorities such as Whitley Strieber, Budd Hopkins, and Dr. David Jacobs. It highlights its regular columns, including "The Night Sky," "Looking Back," and "In Others' Words." The journal emphasizes its commitment to providing up-to-date news and theories in the field, including analyses of government documents and UFO photographs. A subscription offer for the MUFON UFO Journal is included, with a rate of $25 per year for four quarterly issues.

Other Mentions

• William Moore is mentioned for his speech at a Las Vegas symposium and his views on Whitley Strieber, stating that Strieber has earned his respect and is close to the truth.
• Jaime Shandera, a TV producer, is noted in relation to "Majestic," Strieber's novel about the alleged Majestic-12 UFO cover-up agency.
• Sean and Wayne Knowles, brothers from Adelaide, Australia, claim their car was chased by an "egg cup-shaped" flying object.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO experiences, the credibility of witnesses and researchers, and the scientific investigation of the phenomenon. There is a clear effort to bridge the gap between "believers" and "debunkers," as exemplified by Robert Wanderer's analysis of Strieber. The MUFON UFO Journal positions itself as a source for in-depth, credible information, aiming to clear up misconceptions about UFOs and present the latest theories and findings in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to consider various explanations while maintaining a critical perspective.

Title: MUFON UFO Journal
Issue: No. 256
Date: August 1989
Publisher: MUFON
Country: USA
Language: English
Price: $3.00

This issue of the MUFON UFO Journal features a prominent cover story on the 'Illusion Disc,' a new flying disc with electronic effects, presented as a potential lure for extraterrestrial investigation. The issue delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, including book reviews, conference listings, and discussions on government cover-ups and alien encounters.

Articles and Reviews

Review of 'Majestic' by Whitley Strieber

The review of Whitley Strieber's book 'Majestic' critically examines its portrayal of the MJ-12 group and alien entities. The reviewer notes that the book draws on the admissions of Nicholas Duke and Wilfred Stone, an agent for the CIA, to detail the retrieval of a Roswell object and the formation of MJ-12. However, the reviewer finds the characters like Roscoe Hillenkoetter, James Forrestal, and Harry Truman to be like 'cardboard cut-outs.' The book's reliance on discredited stories, such as the disappearance of David Lang and a supposed 19th-century encounter with an alien robot probe, is criticized for undermining the reader's suspension of disbelief. The reviewer also finds the portrayal of alien 'angels' to be 'oddly impotent and ineffective,' and questions their ultimate nature, whether they represent cosmic justice or personal enlightenment. The review concludes by expressing concern about the blurring lines between Strieber's narrative and the MJ-12 conspiracy, suggesting that society, having accepted the implications of the hydrogen bomb, might also accept these revelations, potentially affecting a smaller society of individuals.

Review of 'An Alien Harvest' by Linda Moulton Howe

Larry Hebebrand reviews Linda Moulton Howe's book, 'An Alien Harvest,' which compiles ten years of research into cattle mutilations and alleged alien intervention. The book reportedly covers not only cattle mutilations but also the mutilation of other animals and possibly humans, often with sexual organs, eyes, and tongues removed. Strange lights are frequently observed during these events. The review highlights that the book uses mutilations as a starting point to explore a more complex story of alien intervention, including alleged U.S. government documents related to 'EBES' (Extraterrestrial Biological Entities) and 'Project Aquarius,' which details government involvement with these entities. The appendix includes transcripts of two hypnotic regression sessions conducted by Dr. Leo Sprinkle, featuring an eyewitness account of a cattle mutilation event and sessions with a mother and son.

'In Other's Words' by Lucius Farish

This section provides brief updates on various UFO-related topics:

• 'Anti-Matter/UFO Update': A report from OMNI's July issue discusses mysterious lights in the Hessdalen Valley, Norway (1981-1986), which displayed UFO characteristics, were photographed over 200 times, and tracked by radar at speeds up to 32,000 km/h, with no definitive answers regarding their origin.
• Videotape Review: A videotape titled 'UFOLOGY: AT THE TURNING POINT' features lectures from February 1989 by Budd Hopkins (alien abductions), Bill Moore (Aztec, N.M. case), and Stanton Friedman (MJ-12 controversy). Pricing and ordering information for 2-hour and 6-hour versions are provided.
• Paperback Reprints: Recent reprints include 'The Tujunga Canyon Contacts' by Ann Druffel and D. Scott Rogo, 'The Fellowship' by Brad Steiger, and 'Dimensions' by Jacques Vallee.
• Ozark UFO Conference: Information is available for audio and video tapes from the Ozark UFO Conference #1, and dates for Conference #2 (April 6-8, 1990) are announced.
• Forthcoming Books and Films: Mentions upcoming works by Ed Conroy ('Report on 'Communion''), Edith Fiore ('Encounters'), and Whitley Strieber ('Majestic' novel and 'Communion' film). A 'Communion Letter' is also available.

Calendar of UFO Conferences for 1989

The journal lists several UFO conferences scheduled for 1989:

• August 25-27: Ancient Astronaut Society, Schaumburg, Illinois.
• September 15-17: 26th Annual National UFO Conference, Phoenix, Arizona.
• October 21: The Show-Me UFO Conference, Earth City, Missouri.
• October 26-29: International UFO Conference, Frankfurt, West Germany.
• November 11-12: The UFO Experience, North Haven, Connecticut.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around government secrecy and cover-ups related to UFO phenomena (particularly MJ-12), the nature of alien encounters and abductions, and the dissemination of information through books, conferences, and media. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to analyze the presented facts and draw their own conclusions, while also expressing concern about the potential societal implications of accepting controversial revelations without full understanding. The journal actively promotes UFO-related events and publications, serving as a hub for enthusiasts and researchers in the field.