CUFORG - Vol 2 No 48 - 1994 06

Magazine Overview

This document is the June 1994 issue (Issue No. 48) of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter. It covers the group's meetings and a significant UFO symposium held in Bradford, Ontario.

Meeting Summaries

March Meeting

The group attended a UFO Symposium in Bradford.

April Meeting Minutes

Recorded by Stefan Szpular, the April meeting's minutes detail a seminar location at the Corner of Bloor and St. George A.L.E. building. Tom Theofanous spoke about upcoming seminars scheduled to start in May and run consecutively on Thursdays until September '97. These seminars are planned to feature speakers such as Dr. Gottlieb, Stanley Friedman, and Columbo, discussing UFOs. William Knell's seminar was described as interesting but with accuracy of statements being unsure; his information was found to be quickly covered and factual, though Tom's analysis suggested it was inaccurate and misleading, particularly regarding the 'Carp case.' Tom noted that Knell seemed to assume his audience had prior knowledge of the subject. Several of Knell's seminars were held in Toronto and Hamilton in March. The minutes also mention a tentative 'Binocular Astronomy Night' with more details to follow next month. Henry Romanburg was the guest speaker, recounting his first look into ufology in 1955 in Latin America, where he witnessed a disc along with a friend. He described his mother's reaction to the event.

May Meeting

The guest speaker for the May meeting was Anna Mitchell Hedges, who presented on her Crystal Skull. She showed slides and explained her discovery of the skull in Lub aatun, an ancient Mayan village in Belize, in 1920. She detailed her father's search for Atlantis in British Honduras, the arduous journey through poisonous jungle, and the four years spent clearing the site (1920-1927). She mentioned Lady Richiband, who was helped by Manyan herbal medicine and lived until 1948. Jade artifacts were found and placed in the British Museum. The Mayans are believed to be descendants of Atlantians, and sacrifice stones were found throughout the jungle. The discovery of four other similar skulls in South America was noted. The skull was said to have taken 150 years to make, worked on by four generations, and was carved from a local crystal mine. The skull was given to Frederick Albert Mitchell Hedges in 1927. Anna lived in South Africa from 1948-1951 with the Zulus and later lived in a castle for four years with 36 rooms and 7 tunnels. Their expeditions were financed by finding three of Henry Morgan's chests filled with gold coins. Anna also held the record for the largest shark ever caught at 1,250 pounds. Born in 1907, she was 87 years old at the time of the presentation. The skull is to remain within the family, with family members in New Jersey, Canada, and France. It will be moved as needed. After the war, she entered the antique silver business, and museums have expressed interest in purchasing the skull. Her father wrote several out-of-print books, including 'Land of Wonder and Fear' and 'White Tiger.' Her father died in Devonshire, England, in 1959. Bonnie Wheeler, President of the Cambridge UFO Research Group, commented on Anna Mitchell Hedges' fascinating and adventurous life.

UFO Symposium in Bradford

The 1st Annual Southern Ontario UFO Symposium was held in Bradford, Ontario, on Saturday, March 12, 1994, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Bradford District High School. The event was organized by Joyce Halfin, who felt there was a need for a Canadian symposium. The event was dedicated to the memory of Betty Stewart, a Ufologist who passed away in December 1992. The symposium aimed to draw ufologists and interested members of the public from across Ontario and the United States to hear speakers discuss UFOs, contact, and abductions. Bradford was chosen as the location due to it being a 'hotbed of UFO sightings' and having a 'triangle of energy' over the area, described as a portal or multi-dimensional channel. Halfin hoped to attract up to 500 participants and potentially hold a two-day event in the fall if interest was high. Ticket sales were strong, with forty-four tickets sold by word-of-mouth in the first four days. Tickets were $20 before February 28th and $25 thereafter, available at Joyce's Curio Shoppe. The admission included the symposium, refreshments, and door prizes, with UFO books and tapes also available for sale.

Featured Speakers and Topics:

• John Robert Colombo: Author of 'UFO's Over Canada.'
• Ted Mann: Author of 'Vital Energies.'
• Oscar Magosci: Author/Contactee.
• Dr. Adam Crabtree: Author of 'From Mesmer to Freud.'
• Dr. David Gotlib: Psychotherapist.
• Don Cheff: Channeler, Master Astrologer.
• Alan Grey Wolf: Master Astrologer.
• Jovictor Ceel: Contactee.

Speaker Biographies:

• Jovictor Ceel: Professional artist who remembers seeing 'light beings' as a child and conversing telepathically.
• Don Cheff: Energy therapist, channeler, and 'light body' teacher, practicing meditation and spirituality.
• John Robert Colombo: Known as Canada's 'Master Gatherer,' author of several books on the paranormal.
• Adam Crabtree, Ph.D.: Psychotherapist specializing in dissociation and multiple personality, author of several books on psychical research.
• John German: Visual artist interested in UFOlogy and spiritual exploration.
• David Gotlib, M.D.: Physician psychotherapist and hypnotherapist focusing on anxiety and depressive disorders, and providing counseling for UFO abduction experiences.
• Douglas Gray: Lived with native peoples, teaching Cree and Ojibway, experiencing intuitive visions, and working as a past life therapist.
• Alan Grey Wolf: Master astrologer, teacher, and spiritual traveler, using astrological techniques for UFO phenomena.
• Joyce Halfin: Organizer of the symposium, a UFO contactee, and proprietor of Joyce's Curio Shoppe.
• Oscar Magocsi: Contactee and author of several books on space odysseys.
• Edward Mann: Sociologist and former Anglican priest, author on the work of Wilhelm Reich and flying saucers.

Symposium Agenda:

• Morning Agenda:
• 11:00 - Welcome
• 11:10 - Douglas Gray: 'Remembering Betty Stewart'
• 11:30 - John Robert Colombo: 'Seven Phases of UFOlogy'
• 12:00 - Dr. David Gotlib: 'Medical and Ethical Considerations in Anomalous Experience'
• 12:30 - John German: 'The Curiosity of the Lonely Warrior'
• 1:00 - Ted Mann: 'Vital Energy and Health'
• 1:30-2:30 - Lunch Break/Networking

• Afternoon Agenda:
• 2:30 - Don Cheff: 'Awakening Your Light Body'
• 3:00 - Alan Grey Wolf: 'Astrological Interpretation of the Fire in the Sky Contact'
• 3:30 - Jovictor Ceel: 'Multi-dimensional Aspects of Extraterrestrials'
• 4:00 - Oscar Magocsi: 'My Space Odyssey'
• 4:30 - Adam Crabtree, Ph.D.: 'The Role of Dissociation in Abduction Memories'
• 5:00 - Farewells

UFO videotapes were played in the library throughout the day.

Other Content

Mackinac Island Photo

A picture is shown taken on Mackinac Island, Michigan, described as a beautiful, romantic island where only horses and bicycles are allowed. The caption indicates the author eloped and got married, but her last name remains the same.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on UFO sightings, experiences, and related phenomena, including contactee accounts, archeological mysteries linked to potential extraterrestrial influence (like the crystal skull), and the broader study of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and information sharing within the UFO research community, as evidenced by the detailed reporting of meetings and the organization of a symposium. There is a clear interest in both historical accounts and contemporary research and theories within the field.

This issue features an in-depth investigation into the mysterious Crystal Skull of Doom, exploring its discovery, alleged powers, and the controversies surrounding its authenticity and ownership. The magazine also touches upon ufology, scientific skepticism, and the psychology of belief.

The Case of the Crystal Skull

The lead article, "The Case of the Crystal Skull: A god of the Mayas - or a skeleton in the closet?" by Kaspars Dzeguze, details the story of Anna Mitchell-Hedges and her discovery of the skull on New Year's Day, 1924, in Lubaantun, British Honduras. The skull, described as transparent, weighing 11 pounds 7 ounces, and anatomically correct, was found under vines. Anna claims the local Indians recognized it as the "long-lost god of their ancestors" and were both enthused and terrified by its power.

Anna, who was 17 at the time of the discovery, recounts how her adoptive father, Frederick Mitchell-Hedges, took possession of the skull in 1927. Initially a skeptic, Anna later came to believe in the skull's magical powers after an incident in 1942 involving Adrian Conan Doyle, who became unsettled and could sense the skull's presence.

The article highlights several instances where the skull's alleged powers were demonstrated. These include influencing people's behavior, such as a neighbor's butler being affected by its presence, and even seemingly causing physical reactions in those who interacted with it. Anna recounts an incident where an angry male voice on the phone claimed the skull had knocked her butler off his feet.

Frederick Mitchell-Hedges's autobiography, "Danger My Ally," is mentioned, though it is noted that he did not fully explain how he obtained the skull. Skeptics, including archeologists and crystallographers, suggest the skull might be a modern reproduction or a "skeleton in Mitchell-Hedges's closet." Frank Dorland, who studied the skull for six years, argues for its antiquity based on the absence of modern tool marks, estimating its age at approximately 12,000 years old.

Psychic Investigations and Theories

English clairvoyant Simon Alexander was consulted to provide a psychic reading of the skull. He initially stated he could not read its history further back than 200 years, but later recanted, admitting he only got back 180 to 200 years, and did not want to say so in front of Anna. Alexander described images related to the skull's carving and its potential use by Mayan priests. He also sensed the presence of a young girl needing a baby, which Anna interpreted as potentially being a young Mayan bride given to her father.

Other theories suggest the skull was made by a civilization superior to ours, possibly Atlantis, and that it functioned as a form of "walkie-talkie or radio." Erich von Däniken, known for his "Chariots of the Gods?" theories, also agrees with some of these ideas, suggesting it was left by visitors from outer space.

Controversy and Ownership

The article also addresses the controversy surrounding the skull's ownership and its potential export from Canada. Hermina van Herpt, who purchased Anna Mitchell-Hedges's home in Kitchener, raises questions about the fate of the skull and the use of donated money for a foundation intended to keep it in Canada. Van Herpt states that no foundation was established, and the skull was moved to Valparaiso, Indiana. She believes the skull should be publicly displayed and not used as a "money-making object."

Anna Mitchell-Hedges maintains that a foundation will be set up soon to protect the skull after her death, but declined to divulge further information. The government of Belize (formerly British Honduras) is also seeking the return of the skull, questioning whether Mitchell-Hedges was given it as a gift or simply took it, as the export of artifacts was prohibited in 1924.

Related Articles and Cartoons

The issue includes a brief mention of a K-W Record article from November 5, 1992, detailing Hermina van Herpt's concerns about the skull's fate. Another article from the K-W Record, dated January 18, 1980, discusses a psychic visit by Simon Alexander and the skull's "secrets." It reiterates the belief that the skull has healing powers and warns of evil people or impending tragedies.

Two comic strips are included: "Herman" by Jim Unger, with a humorous take on alien encounters and government actions, and another strip featuring a UFO landing and aliens searching for intelligent life.

A final article from "The Peak," dated June 23, 1994, reports on a conference in Seattle where skeptics aimed to explain the "unexplained." Paul Kurtz of the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal is quoted, suggesting that the key to many paranormal phenomena lies in the "eye of the beholder" and psychological distortion. The conference coincided with the 47th anniversary of Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of disc-shaped objects, which is credited with launching the modern UFO movement.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the mystery and controversy surrounding the Crystal Skull of Doom, its alleged supernatural powers, and the conflicting accounts of its origin and authenticity. The magazine presents both the believers' perspectives, highlighting anecdotal evidence and psychic interpretations, and the skeptics' viewpoints, emphasizing the lack of scientific proof and the possibility of fraud or misinterpretation. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and presentation of different viewpoints, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions on the enigmatic nature of the Crystal Skull and other unexplained phenomena.

Title: UFO Encounters
Issue: Number 129
Date: November/December, 1993
Publisher: The Missing Link
Country: USA
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "UFO Encounters" delves into the complex and intriguing phenomenon of UFOs and alien abductions, presenting a range of perspectives from investigators, academics, and individuals who claim to have had direct experiences. The magazine aims to keep readers informed about unfolding cases and challenges conventional views of reality.

Local Abductions and Campus Encounters

The lead article, "Aliens on Lampus? The reality of local abductions," reports on the prevalence of alien abduction experiences. A Roper Poll indicates that approximately 400 people on a university campus, or 2% of the general population, may have experienced abductions, often with no memory of the event. Walter Andrus of MUFON notes that abductees generally report similar experiences, making it possible for trained specialists to identify genuine cases from hoaxes. A study from Carleton University suggests that abductees are mentally healthy, leading to the intriguing idea that aliens might be interested in such individuals. The article also features Bonnie Wheeler, who investigates UFO cases in Cambridge, Canada, and rarely encounters hoaxes. She recounts a case of an Elora woman who, through therapy, recalled multiple abductions since childhood, including one involving a "scout ship" and a "mother ship" where examinations took place.

Alien Sightings and Cultural Impact

Another section, "Alien sightings have occurred around the globe," highlights a personal account of an alien encounter in a bedroom, where a thin, human-like being with large, cat-like eyes was present. The son of friends staying at the house corroborated the sighting. The article notes the increasing mainstream presence of UFO themes in popular culture, citing shows like "The X-Files" and "Encounters," as well as best-selling books like Whitley Strieber's "Communion." It questions the widespread belief in UFOs, with a Toronto Star report indicating 69% of Canadians believe UFOs are directed by an unknown intelligence, suggesting that the truth behind these bizarre stories is gaining traction.

Academic Consideration and Skepticism

The "Encounters" section, by Ruth Dunley, discusses how UFO sightings are gaining serious consideration in academic circles, moving away from tabloid headlines. Tom Theofanous of MUFON states that UFOs are becoming treated as a scientific enigma. While 85-90% of reported sightings are explained by natural phenomena, the remaining unexplained cases include a significant number of abduction reports. Nicholas Spanos's study suggests that those who believe they've had close encounters are as intelligent and psychologically healthy as others. However, psychologist Robert Baker dismisses these claims, attributing them to sleep paralysis and the unreliability of hypnotized memory. He argues that the phenomenon is a "gigantic hoax" fueled by media attention and a desire for attention, comparing it to historical séances.

The Roswell Incident: Investigations and Cover-up Claims

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the Roswell Incident. An article from The Seattle Times details the General Accounting Office's (GAO) study into allegations that the government covered up the recovery of alien bodies from a crashed flying saucer near Roswell in 1947. The GAO is examining documents to determine if the Air Force suppressed information. The article mentions that the "Roswell Incident" has been dismissed by the Defense Department as a weather balloon, but conspiracy theorists believe otherwise. It also notes that the National Archives does not have the relevant records.

Another article, "HBO Plans New Film on Roswell Crash," discusses a forthcoming HBO movie based on the book "UFO Crash at Roswell" by Kevin Randle and Donald Schmitt. It touches on the history of UFO crash reports, noting early hoaxes and later dismissals of claims by authors like Frank Scully. The article highlights the work of ufologists like Leonard Stringfield, Stanton Friedman, and William Moore, who have investigated UFO crash/retrievals and the Roswell incident.

Detailed accounts of the Roswell case are presented, including the discovery of debris by Mac Brazel on July 2, 1947, and the subsequent military retrieval operation. The Roswell Daily Record's initial headline, "RAAF Captures Flying Saucer," is mentioned, along with the military's quick retraction and the creation of a cover-up story involving a weather balloon. Investigations by Randle and Schmitt suggest that an extraterrestrial craft did crash, and that alien bodies were discovered. Accounts from Sgt. Melvin Brown and mortician Glenn Dennis describe seeing alien bodies and discussions about small caskets. The article concludes that all investigating parties agree a craft not of this world crashed, there was a military retrieval, a cover-up story, and alien bodies were discovered.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the tension between belief and skepticism regarding UFOs and alien abductions. It presents evidence and testimonies from believers, including academic research that supports the psychological health of abductees, while also featuring skeptical viewpoints, particularly from psychologists who attribute such experiences to sleep disorders or hoaxes. The pervasive theme of government cover-ups and the difficulty in obtaining official information is evident throughout the articles, especially concerning the Roswell Incident. The magazine appears to lean towards validating the experiences of those who claim encounters, suggesting that these phenomena are real and warrant serious investigation, even if definitive proof remains elusive for skeptics. The editorial stance encourages readers to stay informed and question official narratives, promoting a critical yet open-minded approach to the UFO enigma.

Title: The Missing Link
Issue: 129
Volume: 1
Date: November/December 1993

This issue of The Missing Link delves into two primary themes: the ongoing investigation and media portrayal of the Roswell UFO incident, and a journey through the ancient mysteries and archaeological wonders of Mexico.

Roswell Incident and Media Adaptations

The centerpiece of the issue is an interview with Don Schmitt, co-producer and technical consultant for a movie based on the Roswell event. Initially, HBO planned a movie titled "UFO Crash At Roswell," but they dropped the project due to budget issues and the controversial nature of the topic. The project was subsequently picked up by Showtime, resulting in a film titled "Roswell," which was in post-production with a planned release for late July of the following year. Executive Producer Paul Davids expressed that many involved felt a strong conviction that the truth about the Roswell Incident should be revealed. The Showtime film stars Martin Sheen, Kyle MacLachlan (as Colonel Jesse Marcel), Kim Greist, and Dwight Yoakam (as Mac Brazel). The movie is set in two time periods: 1947, the time of the crash, and 30 years later. The film was not intended for a U.S. theatrical release but was expected to be available on video.

Don Schmitt and Kevin Randle, authors of "UFO Crash At Roswell," have been investigating the incident for five years and claim to have uncovered a staggering 600 first-, second-, and third-hand witnesses, including over a half-dozen living, first-hand witnesses to alien bodies. Their new book, a complete rewrite of their previous work, is expected to contain about 75% new information based on this extensive testimony. Schmitt noted that while their first book relied on second-hand accounts, their new work incorporates first-hand drawings and testimony. They have dismissed rumors like the "Plains of San Agustin story" and aim for their book and the movie to encourage more witnesses to come forward.

Schmitt also discussed the challenges faced by researchers, including threats, potential phone tapping, and harassment, much of which he attributes to the ufology field itself, rather than external government interference. He believes that media attention is crucial for uncovering the truth about the phenomenon. He stated that he would only back away from the case if presented with irrefutable evidence that it posed a threat to national security, not just by documentation or photographs, but by demonstrating the "genuine article" and the necessity of such a "terrible secret."

An article by Michael Norris details HBO's cancellation of its Roswell movie and Showtime's subsequent pick-up. The article mentions that the research consultant hired by HBO encountered numerous dead ends and that other researchers were reluctant to cooperate unless their own books were featured. The "Roswell Declaration" is also explained as a worldwide effort to end U.S. Government secrecy surrounding the incident, appealing for an Executive Order to declassify information on UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence. This effort is supported by MUFON, CUFOS, and FUFOR. The declaration aims to galvanize public interest into a large-scale movement.

A separate piece references Bill Knell's UFO Newsletter, which featured a "Roswell Issue" with interesting data and interviews. A cartoon by Robichaud, titled "A Frightning U.F.O. encounter," is included, depicting a flying saucer with the text "AAAAAA!!!" and "STUDENT."

Mexico's Ancient Mysteries

The issue also features a significant section dedicated to exploring the ancient civilizations and archaeological sites of Mexico. The journey begins at the National Museum of Anthropology, highlighting the figure of Tlaloc, the rain god. It then moves to Teotihuacan, where visitors climb the Pyramid of the Sun, described as a place "where men became gods."

The text guides readers through Malinalco, Xochicalco (a crossroads of Zapotec, Toltec, Mayan, and Aztec civilizations), and Tula, with its "eerie life-like" statues of the "Atlanteans." El Tajin is mentioned for its mysterious origins and the Totonac Indians' flying pole dance. The article emphasizes that these sites are part of Mexico's "legendary magic."

Further exploration covers the Southern Region, including sites like Labna and Sayil, the Parque Museo de la Venta with its Olmec stone heads, Palenque with its funerary monument, and Bonampak, known for its magnificent frescoes. The region of Cholula is noted for its largely buried pyramid, while Monte Alban is described as a spectacular blend of sky, pyramids, and platforms. Mitla is highlighted for its elaborate stone mosaics, and the challenge of how ancient people moved massive stone blocks without wheels or pack animals is pondered.

The Central Region focuses on Mexico City, a modern capital built upon an ancient empire, where the magic of past cultures remains visible. The issue includes images of Mayan art, sculptures, and architecture, with a caption mentioning an ancient Mayan fort at Tulum overlooking the Yucatán Peninsula.

Other Content

A cartoon by Leigh Rubin, titled "RUBES," humorously depicts alien mothers dressing up ordinary meals. Another cartoon, "The Far Side," features a spaceship with a dog inside, prompting a humorous exchange.

A brief mention is made of a contest sponsored by Washington Mutual Bank to select the most unusual places or events in the Washington-Oregon area, featuring a Douglas fir tree that had enveloped a bicycle within its bark.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently champions the pursuit of truth regarding UFO phenomena, particularly the Roswell incident, and advocates for government transparency. There is a strong emphasis on witness testimony and rigorous research. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official narratives and a belief in the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence, while also acknowledging the need for credible evidence. The inclusion of ancient Mexican civilizations suggests a broader interest in historical mysteries and the potential for uncovering hidden truths across different domains. The magazine also seems to engage with popular culture, particularly through its discussion of film adaptations of UFO events.

This document is a scanned issue of a publication titled "ROSWELL DECLARATION," dated Thursday, January 13, 1994, with a cover headline "Schiff Reopens 1947 UFO Case." It focuses on the Roswell incident of 1947 and advocates for the declassification of all U.S. Government information related to UFOs and extraterrestrial intelligence.

The Roswell Incident and Cover-up

The core of the document details the Roswell incident, which occurred forty-seven years prior to the publication date. It involved the recovery of material by the U.S. Military, alleged to be of extraterrestrial origin. A press release on July 8, 1947, announced the event, but was subsequently denied by a cover story claiming the material was from a weather balloon. The document asserts that this denial was a cover-up, confirmed by individuals directly involved.

Key figures mentioned in relation to the initial announcement and cover-up include Colonel William Blanchard, Commander of the 509th Bomb Group, who issued the initial press release, and General Thomas DuBose, who allegedly took a call from Washington ordering the cover-up. Major Jesse Marcel, the Intelligence Officer of the 509th Bomb Group and one of the first military officers at the scene, is presented as a credible witness who testified that the wreckage was of extraterrestrial origin.

Congressman Schiff's Inquiry

The document highlights the efforts of United States Congressman Steven Schiff of Albuquerque, New Mexico. On January 12, 1994, he announced that he had been stonewalled by the Defense Department when requesting information regarding the 1947 Roswell event on behalf of constituents. Congressman Schiff deemed the lack of response "astounding" and concluded it was "another government coverup."

The Case for Declassification

The publication argues that unsubstantiated official assurances or denials are often meaningless. It proposes a logical and straightforward way to ensure the truth emerges: an Executive Order declassifying any information regarding the existence of UFOs or extraterrestrial intelligence. This is deemed a unique issue of universal concern, warranting such an action. The document suggests that if no information is being withheld, such an order would be a mere formality, setting the record straight. If information is being withheld, it argues that such knowledge is of profound importance and should not be the exclusive right of a privileged few in the U.S. Government, but rather an inalienable right for all people worldwide.

Witness Testimony and Evidence

Several pages are dedicated to detailing witness testimonies and evidence. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jesse Marcel described the material as not being from a weather balloon, airplane, or missile, noting its unusual properties like being thin, light, and resistant to burning or denting. His son, Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr., remembers seeing symbols on a piece of the wreckage. General Thomas DuBose testified that he took a call ordering the cover-up. Retired General Arthur E. Exon, stationed at Wright Field, stated that tests on the material indicated it was "from space."

Glenn Dennis, a mortician working for Ballard Funeral Home in 1947, provided accounts of being asked about caskets and preserving bodies, and later observing ambulances with protruding wreckage and encountering a nurse who described assisting doctors with autopsies on "small nonhuman bodies."

The document also mentions that the main part of the craft came down some distance from the "debris field" at the Brazel ranch, and that this site is where bodies were found. It notes that many witnesses have been threatened or intimidated, including Sheriff George Wilcox and the rancher Mac Brazel.

Explaining Media Inattention and Government Stance

The publication addresses why the mainstream media has not pursued the story, citing two factors: a negative mindset that resists challenging preconceived perceptions of reality, and ridicule associated with UFOs, which can lead to a loss of credibility for those who discuss the subject seriously. It also criticizes the U.S. Government's stance, which consistently denies evidence of UFOs or extraterrestrial intelligence, suggesting this may be due to compartmentalization and a need-to-know philosophy.

International Comparisons and Historical Context

The document contrasts U.S. policy with that of Belgium, which released radar tapes of a UFO pursuit. It recalls Jimmy Carter's 1976 pledge to make UFO information available to the public, a promise he did not fulfill after becoming president.

It discusses potential reasons for government withholding of information, including fear of mass panic (arguing this is unlikely in the current age), national security concerns (suggesting reverse-engineering technology might be kept secret, but the existence of the craft itself should not be), and concern about offending religious groups. The document argues that the Roswell evidence, like Darwin's theory or Copernicus' findings, could challenge certain religious doctrines but that knowledge generally leads to positive long-term results.

International UFO Conference

Separate sections of the scanned document advertise an "INTERNATIONAL UFO CONFERENCE" to be held at Lake Titicaca, Peru, from September 4-13, 1994. This conference aims to provide reliable, factual, and truthful information on the UFO area, featuring experts discussing various aspects of UFO phenomena, including interspecies communication, abductions, technology, and ancient archaeology. It includes lectures, workshops, and sighting excursions, with pre/post tours to Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Nasca Lines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme is the call for transparency and truth regarding the Roswell incident and the broader topic of extraterrestrial intelligence. The publication strongly advocates for government declassification, viewing it as a matter of universal right and historical significance. The editorial stance is critical of government secrecy and media reticence on the subject, urging for open discussion and investigation. The document positions the Roswell incident as a well-documented event that challenges official narratives and demands explanation.

This document is a collection of materials related to the "UFOs: The Best Evidence" project, including a letter from George Knapp to Bonnie Wheeler, a cover page, and a list of books and videos from Stanton T. Friedman's UFORI (University of Florida Organization for Research and Information). The issue date is May 16, 1994, with a publication volume of 4/94.

George Knapp's "UFOs: The Best Evidence" Project

George Knapp, an investigative journalist, expresses his mutual interest in the UFO subject with Ms. Wheeler. He details his career producing award-winning television programs and documentaries on UFOs, noting the tendency of major news organizations and scientists to ignore or ridicule the topic. Knapp resigned from his television job two years prior to pursue this story full-time. He has traveled globally, interviewing scientists, military officials, and eyewitnesses, and compiling classified government documents to create a comprehensive UFO documentary series.

The series consists of three volumes:

• "The Visitors": Explores the extensive history of the UFO phenomenon and challenges the 'head-in-the-sand' attitudes of mainstream science, media, and government.
• "Strange Encounters": Examines unusual aspects of the UFO debate, including alleged alien abductions, animal mutilations, and cryptic crop formations.
• "The Government Coverup": Aims to prove, beyond reasonable doubt, that government officials have deliberately distorted and suppressed UFO evidence.

These videos are being offered for sale at an introductory price of $59.95 plus $6.95 shipping and handling. The company behind the project has staked its survival on the belief that the public wants the real story. If successful, they intend to continue their research into the UFO mystery. Purchasers also receive a few dozen pages of authentic UFO documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and a year's subscription to "UFO Quarterly," a newsletter providing updates on UFO activity, sightings, and research worldwide.

Knapp acknowledges this is a sales pitch but emphasizes the expense of such a large-scale undertaking and the need for funding to overcome the resistance from those controlling UFO information. He hopes this effort will make UFO research self-supporting.

An order form is provided for "UFOs: The Best Evidence," with a total cost of $66.90, to be mailed to P.O. Box 2249, Livonia, Michigan 45151.

"The moon DOESN'T DANCE" - UFO Sightings in County Skies

This section reports on recent unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings in county skies, marking the second appearance of strange lights in two months. The main article details a sighting on Saturday, March 19, 1994, over Hardwood Hill, which was captured on videotape by George Clyke.

Witnesses in Tatamagouche, Central Caribou, Hardwood Hill, and Truro reported similar sightings. George Clyke described the object as a large, round white object with four lights close together, which danced, hovered, darted, and changed shape, size, and color. His 10-year-old daughter, Tasha, also witnessed the event and believed it to be a UFO.

During the sighting, the family dog exhibited distress, whimpering and whining at the lights.

Other witnesses, like Doug Corbett from Central Caribou, also observed the lights for nearly two hours. Corbett described seeing four blue-green lights hovering over the trees, which moved rapidly. He stated it was unlike anything he had ever seen before and was not an airplane or helicopter.

Calls were made to the Pictou RCMP, who dispatched a patrol car. The investigating officer did not report seeing the lights but contacted the Canadian Armed Forces Base at Shearwater. The Armed Forces duty officer reported no radar detection of the objects.

John Smith, another witness, reported seeing two distinct, very bright white lights over Fitzpatrick Mountain, which appeared to be communicating with each other. He and his friend drove to Hardwood Hill to get a closer look but the objects were gone.

Mr. Clyke believes his videotape may be the first hard evidence of UFO existence on film. He is seeking analysis of the tape.

Other Reports and Listings

• Sea Monster Sighting: Two university students, Damian Grant and Ryan Green, reported seeing a twin-humped, snorting sea creature in Telegraph Bay, Victoria, Canada. The creature was estimated to be four to six meters long.

• Nearly 500 UFOs Reported Last Year: A Winnipeg-based organization, Ufology Research, reported that nearly 500 UFOs were reported in Canada in the previous year, with only 26 remaining unexplained. Notable unexplained cases included a black cigar-shaped object in Ontario and a yellow triangular object in Alberta.

• Stanton T. Friedman's UFORI Book List: A comprehensive list of books and videos available from Stanton T. Friedman's UFORI is provided. These resources cover topics such as the physics of flying saucers, UFology, crashed saucers (including Roswell), government coverups, psychological testing of abductees, and analyses of scientific skepticism. Notable items include Friedman's own works and publications by other researchers like W. L. Moore and Budd Hopkins.

• Other Important Sources: The document also lists other sources for UFO information, including congressional hearings, books by J. Allen Hynek, E. U. Condon, John G. Fuller, Budd Hopkins, and David Jacobs, as well as organizations like the Fund for UFO Research and the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON).

• Order Form: A detailed order form is included for UFORI, listing prices for various books, videos, and specials, with options for Canadian and US customers.

• Stonehenge: A brief caption accompanies an image of Stonehenge, suggesting it may have been an ancient astronomical observatory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the presentation of credible UFO evidence, the alleged suppression of this evidence by governments and mainstream media, and the promotion of research and information dissemination through documentaries, books, and newsletters. The editorial stance is clearly pro-UFO investigation, advocating for the reality of the phenomenon and challenging skeptical viewpoints. There is a strong emphasis on government coverups and the need for public awareness and support for UFO research. The issue also includes reports of unusual sightings, such as the Hardwood Hill UFO and the sea monster, broadening the scope of unexplained phenomena discussed.