Houston Sky - no 07 - Oct-Nov 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: HOUSTON SKY
Issue: No. 7
Date: October/November 1995

This issue of Houston Sky, a bimonthly UFO newsletter for Houston-Area MUFON Members and Others, focuses heavily on the controversial "Alien Autopsy Circus" film, presenting a detailed investigation into its origins, claims, and the surrounding debates. The magazine also includes updates on UFO research, personal profiles, and information on online UFO communities.

The Alien Autopsy Circus

The lead article, "The Alien Autopsy Circus," by Glenn Joyner, Rebecca Schatte, and Bill Ralls, introduces the subject as a "circus" that has come to ufology, referring to a film that allegedly surfaced, depicting an alien autopsy. The authors, independent UFO researchers, detail their involvement in monitoring the Santilli film debate. They recount the story of the 1947 Roswell Incident as the backdrop for this film, suggesting that if such an event occurred, military investigators would have documented it extensively.

Ray Santilli, described as the "Ringmaster," is introduced as the owner of Merlin Productions, a British company specializing in documentary videos. Santilli claims he obtained the film in 1993 from an American gentleman who had rare Elvis footage, and was casually offered "something else" – reels of film purportedly taken by the old man while in the U.S. Army, which he claims is the "smoking gun" documentation of an alien autopsy.

The article details the "hucksterism campaign" surrounding the film, including advance ticket sales for a video preview and an aura of intense secrecy. The authors note that the film was presented as a major event, with rumors of President Harry Truman's appearance.

Send in the Clowns

This section discusses individuals who publicly supported the film. Reg Presley, former member of The Troggs, is cited as stating on BBC that he had seen the film and that it was original 1947 footage, comprising 15 reels and 150 minutes of the crash site, debris, and autopsy, showing an alien being worked on. Philip Mantle, Director of Investigations for BUFORA, is also mentioned for his conflicting statements regarding the film's authenticity and dating.

The Circus Train Rolls into Town

This section elaborates on Santilli's claims and the initial reactions to the film. Santilli stated that in 1993, he was in the U.S. looking for Elvis footage and was offered the autopsy film. The article notes that Santilli owns a British company and was in contact with an American gentleman who had rare Elvis footage. The film was allegedly taken years before by this man while he was in the U.S. Army.

The Opening Act

The "opening act" was the advance showing of the film on May 5, 1995, at the Museum of London. Approximately 100 media representatives, ufologists, and industry insiders attended. The reviews were mixed, with confusion arising from questions about objects seen in the film, such as a phone cord, pen, and clock. While AT&T confirmed coiled phone cords were available in 1947, plastic ones were not, and the composition of the cord in the film is indeterminate. Ballpoint pens were reportedly available by 1947, and a General Electric wall clock visible was verified as correct for the era. However, special effects experts from Creature Effects commented that a seam on the body suggested fabrication.

Searching the Funhouse

This section delves into the search for the alleged cameraman. A statement, purportedly from the cameraman, described the beings as "freaks" and detailed the scene of dead and dying aliens. Santilli attributed discrepancies in the statement, such as British colloquialisms, to his British secretary. The search for the cameraman has involved combing through military records. Jack D. Barrett, a military motion picture technician who died in August 1995, was considered, but his military service ended before the alleged filming event. Berlyn Brixner, the camera operator at the Trinity atomic test blast, was also considered but had no knowledge of an alien autopsy event. Santilli maintains the cameraman is alive and served in the Army Air Force and "special forces" from 1942 to 1952.

Side Show Bob and the Shell Game

This section focuses on Bob Shell, editor of Shutterbug magazine, who claimed to have authenticated the film. The authors express doubt about Shell's sincerity, citing his propensity for innuendo and sensationalism, and his claims of knowing the cameraman's identity while being bound by a nondisclosure agreement. Shell's account of how he obtained a film clip differs from that of Fox Network producers.

The Straight Men

Stanton Friedman discussed an exchange with Santilli where Santilli claimed President Truman was present at the "autopsy in Dallas." However, checks with the Truman Library found no record of Truman being in Texas during the relevant period. Private investigator Bill Dear, who was assigned to find the cameraman by Fox TV, stated that he is sure the film depicts a real autopsy and that two medical examiners agreed it appeared real, though not necessarily alien. Cyril Wecht, a forensic pathologist, stated he could not correlate the body with a human race member and had great difficulty seeing it as a human body.

Popcorn, Peanuts, Crackerjacks

This section discusses the advance orders for videos of the autopsy footage. While many readers may have received the Fox-distributed video, the authors note that the "other footage" being circulated in Europe has not been provided to all parties paying for it, raising questions about who controls the true distribution.

The Roller Coaster Ride

The authors describe their investigation as an "intense, and emotional roller coaster trip," filled with conflicting information, egos, and disinformation. They express frustration but remain committed to finding the truth, acknowledging the vast amounts of time and energy expended.

The Grand Finale

In conclusion, the authors ponder whether they have been victims of a "sinister disinformation ploy." They suggest that the footage itself, while seemingly real, might be a ruse to undermine existing Roswell evidence. They question if the film depicts an alien or a human with genetic disorders. The identity and testimony of the mysterious cameraman are considered the key to unlocking the truth. The investigation leaves them with more questions than answers, with key pieces of the puzzle still missing.

Worth Repeating

This section features "A Digest of Ideas from Researchers, Enthusiasts, Buffs, Kooks, Skeptics, Debunkers, and Others."

Beyond the Pale

A quote from Jacques Vallee at a UFO Experience Conference criticizes the claims surrounding the Santilli film, suggesting that ufologists are the only group who watch autopsy videos and that such stories contribute to the "giggle factor" surrounding the field.

New Directions?

An excerpt from Kevin D. Randle's introduction to his book "To Touch the Light" discusses his personal search for understanding death, emphasizing that he reported stories as accurately as possible without attempting verification.

No Doubt About It!

A self-characterization by Phil Klass as the "world's smartest, handsomest—and most modest—skeptical UFO investigator."

Claims, Counterclaims

This piece reports on claims by Derek Sheffield that the British Ministry of Defense is concealing evidence of a 1,000-mph triangular craft tracked by NATO radar stations in 1990. Admiral of the Fleet Lord Hill-Norton is quoted as supporting the documented facts of the incident.

Worth Re-Repeating (Page 8)

Another quote from Jacques Vallee, from an October 7 UFO Experience Conference, expresses concern that hypnotic regression of abduction victims is unscientific and potentially unethical, leading to unwarranted conclusions. He believes witnesses are sincere but that the experience may differ from the promoted scenario.

Recent U.K. Sighting

A brief report of a UFO sighting in the village of St. Ives, Cambridgeshire, involving hundreds of people and low-level pulsing lights.

Deep-Throat

This section provides "Unsubstantiated-but-Persistent Rumors From the UFO Grapevine."

• Crop circle watcher and Santilli supporter Colin Andrews announced a major announcement would be made on November 19 at Madison Square Garden.
• Whitley Strieber is releasing a new book, "Secret School," in 1996.
• Two books are expected to expose U.S. government knowledge of remote viewing: Courtney Brown's "Cosmic Voyage" and Jim Marrs' "Enigma Files."
• Nick Pope, British Ministry of Defense Air Secretary, is quoted as stating that "five percent of all unidentifieds are extraterrestrial."

New Twist in Alien Autopsy Circus Revealed by French TV!

This report details a French TV program where Ray Santilli changed his story. He admitted purchasing Elvis footage from an attorney, Bill Randle, in Cleveland, Ohio, contradicting his earlier claim of buying both films from a cameraman named Jack Barnett. The report highlights that Jack Barnett died over 25 years ago, making Santilli's story even more contradictory.

UFO Notebook

By Bill Eatwell

This section introduces physicist Alan C. Holt, detailing his background and expertise in strategic utilization planning for the International Space Station program. Holt's involvement in the space program since 1967 is highlighted, including his work on astronaut training and crew procedures development. The article previews future discussions on Holt's "resonance spacecraft" theory.

The NASA Moon Photos Project

By Gayle Nesom and others

This team is investigating Vito Saccheri's NASA experience. They have identified a building where Vito spent time in 1979 and confirmed the existence of a tunnel system. Efforts are underway to uncover private artwork, photos, and documents related to renovations of the building. The project aims to update central archive libraries and Rice University's library.

Excuse Me?!

A brief report about Barry A. Briskman, who was convicted of seducing young girls by claiming to be a space alien recruiting them for an utopian society.

On the Internet: The Latest on ISCNI

This article provides an update on ISCNI (Institute for the Study of Contact with Nonhuman Intelligence), which began as an information service for America Online members and is expanding to the World Wide Web. ISCNI is developing expanded information services, including live chats, academy-style classes, and message boards. The article explains how to access IRC (Internet Relay Chat) for live chats and recommends subscribing to a local Internet access provider. It also details ISCNI's membership policy, which is now on a quarterly basis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The dominant theme of this issue is the critical examination of the "Alien Autopsy Circus" film, presenting a skeptical yet thorough investigation into its claims and the individuals involved. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of cautious inquiry, seeking verifiable evidence while acknowledging the sincerity of witnesses. There is a clear emphasis on dissecting the claims, identifying inconsistencies, and questioning the motivations of those promoting the story. The inclusion of "Worth Repeating" and "Deep Throat" sections suggests an editorial approach that values diverse perspectives, even those that are unsubstantiated or speculative, while maintaining a critical distance. The magazine also highlights the growing importance of the Internet in UFO research and communication, as evidenced by the ISCNI update and the mention of online discussions.

Title: HOUSTON SKY
Issue: No. 7
Date: October/November 1995
Publisher: Houston Sky
Document Type: Magazine Issue

MUFON-Houston Update

The issue begins with an update from MUFON-Houston, noting that a planned trip to Marfa did not occur due to insufficient sign-ups. The organizers plan to reschedule the trip for the spring, emphasizing better long-range planning and greater participation. A "MUFON-Houston Participation Survey" is included, inviting members to indicate interest in activities such as an Investigator Training Class, an Experiencers Discussion Group, and future socials. Responses were requested by November 15, 1995. Gayle Nesom, the editor, mentions that investigations are ongoing for several cases, including the NASA moon photos case, and encourages readers to contact her to report sightings or get involved.

UFO LINGO Pronunciations

This section provides phonetic guidance for names relevant to the UFO community: Jacques Vallee (pronounced Zhock Vahlay, not "Jack's Valley", with the "s" silent and "ee" pronounced "ay"), Michael Brein (pronounced like Brian or Bryan), and Rebecca Schatte (pronounced like "shotty", derived from German for shadow, spirit, ghost). A quote attributed to Mark Twain is included: "...here and there a touch of good grammar for picturesqueness."

Houston Sky Publication Details

Houston Sky is published six times a year and began in October 1994. It serves as a forum for ideas and information for Houston-area MUFON members. The publication states that its views do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial staff or MUFON members. Reprint policies are outlined, requiring credit to Houston Sky. Subscriptions are $15 per year ($20 foreign), and individual copies are $3. The Oct./Nov. 1995 issue is being mailed to 350 readers. Arcturus Books Inc. includes Houston Sky in its monthly catalog. The Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) is described as a nonprofit Texas Corporation with an international membership of 5,000, with annual membership dues of $25. Contact information for MUFON UFO Hotline ((800) UFO-2166) and the HS Editor, Gayle Nesom, is provided, along with other staff and contributors.

Review: UFO Publications: Part 1

Gayle Nesom reviews various privately published UFO newsletters and bulletins available to the public. She notes that while quality and consistency vary, most arrive regularly and cost between $15 and $20 for a year's subscription (typically six or 12 issues). She emphasizes that UFO newsletters do not pay for themselves and suggests adding $5 for foreign subscriptions. The list is not exhaustive and excludes publications like the MUFON Journal and popular magazines.

The reviewed publications include:

• Ancient Skies: Official Logbook of the Ancient Astronaut Society, bimonthly, $12.
• HUFON Report: Houston UFO Network, monthly, $15.
• Just Cause: Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, quarterly, $20.
• LA (Louisiana) MUFON Newsletter: bimonthly, $15.
• MUFON Arizona Chapter Newsletter: monthly, $15.
• National UFO News: bimonthly, $15.
• New Mexico MUFON News: monthly, $15.
• Ohio UFO Notebook: quarterly, $20.
• Skeptics UFO Newsletter: bimonthly, $15.
• UFO Intelligence Newsletter: monthly, $15.

Nesom expresses a particular fondness for the Louisiana MUFON Newsletter and finds Philip J. Klass's Skeptics UFO Newsletter "always interesting."

Of Interest (Houston Area & Elsewhere)

This section lists upcoming events and contacts:

• Houston Area:
• VISIT (Vehicle Internal Systems Investigative Team) meeting on November 30.
• HUFON (Houston UFO Network) meetings on the first Friday of each month.
• Institute of Noetic Sciences event on October 28.
• Elsewhere:
• "The Science & Politics of UFO Research" conference in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 28-29.
• CSETI Conference in Asheville, NC, on November 3-5.
• Colin Andrew's Event at Madison Square Garden on November 19, featuring crop circles, the Santilli film, and a mystery guest.

The MUFON UFO Hotline number is also reiterated.

A quote from Macneile Dixon is featured: "The facts of the present won't sit still for a portrait. They are constantly vibrating, full of clutter and confusion."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around community engagement within MUFON-Houston, the importance of organized planning for events, and the dissemination of information about UFO research and related publications. The editorial stance, as presented by Gayle Nesom and the publication's disclaimer, is to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints within the UFO community while maintaining a focus on ongoing investigations and information sharing. There is a clear effort to encourage reader participation and to keep the local MUFON chapter active and informed.