Houston Sky - no 11 - Jun-Oct 1996

Magazine Overview

Title: HOUSTON SKY
Issue: No. 11
Date: June-October 1996
Type: UFO Newsletter for Houston-Area MUFON Members and Others

Main Article: Does Pop Culture Affect Our View of Alien Abduction?

Kevin D. Randle's article explores the idea that the modern alien abduction phenomenon might be heavily influenced by pop culture, drawing parallels to older folklore and fairy tales. Randle, who is pursuing a doctorate in psychology, suggests that researchers should consider societal influences on public perception. He posits that elements of alien abduction existed in science fiction long before the first flying saucer report in 1947. The article critiques the argument that abduction accounts must be real because there are no cultural sources, pointing to the Great Airship sightings of 1897 and early 20th-century science fiction as precedents.

Randle highlights how stories like "The Vanishing Hitchhiker" and "The Choking Doberman" spread as urban legends without factual basis, suggesting that abduction narratives can spread similarly. He cites early science fiction works by Jules Verne and H. G. Wells, particularly "First Men in the Moon" and "War of the Worlds," as examples of how alien invasion themes entered public consciousness. The article notes that even before 1938, science fiction magazines featured covers and stories with elements mirroring modern abduction accounts, such as depictions of aliens with large eyes and probing examinations of humans.

Examples from films like "Not of This Earth" (1956), "The Invaders" (1960s), "This Island Earth" (1955), "The 27th Day" (1957), "Killers from Space" (1954), and "Earth Versus the Flying Saucers" (1956) are used to demonstrate how themes of alien abduction, genetic material gathering, human experimentation, and memory probing were present in popular media decades before widespread abduction reports.

Randle also discusses how information, even without modern technology, could spread through word of mouth and performance. He argues that even if individuals did not directly consume science fiction, previews of movies and television shows would have exposed them to these themes. The article concludes that pop culture has undeniably influenced our concept of aliens and abduction, making it difficult to separate reality from fiction.

Worth Repeating

This section features various quotes and short articles:

• Faeries and Wee People: Stuart Conway suggests that encounters with 'faery' or 'wee people' from ancient folklore might be referring to extraterrestrial experiences, drawing parallels to modern UFO phenomena.
• Mark Twain Quote: "Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; truth isn't."
• Life on Mars: Alvin Toffler is quoted on the significance of the Mars life discovery and the massive public interest shown online.
• Punctuationally Impaired?: A humorous note from Bob Shell about readers misinterpreting his writing due to punctuation.
• Anonymous Quote: "The question is not so much whether there is life on Mars as whether it will continue to be possible to live on Earth."
• Tunguska Revisited: Alexander Kazantsev's theory that the Tunguska event was caused by an exploding spaceship is mentioned, referencing a 1946 short story and its later republication.
• Galactocentric View?: Nathan Myrhvoid critiques alien abduction stories, questioning why Earth would be a focal point for UFO visits and suggesting a human ego-driven narrative.
• Ancient Memories: Jacques Vallee discusses how ancient folklore about humanoid beings flying in the sky, using advanced devices, and abducting humans mirrors modern UFO reports, suggesting a continuity in human experience.
• Don't Let the Pleaideans Get You!: An excerpt from Discover magazine highlights the Pleiades star cluster and its significance in various cultures, suggesting it can be viewed with binoculars for a stunning visual experience.
• Albert Einstein Quote: "Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity."
• Unidentified IFO?: A Newsday report about an American Airlines pilot's sighting of a missile near NASA and Navy facilities in Virginia.

Flash Back: An Air Force Colonel Recalls

This article by Bob Teets recounts a story from retired U.S. Air Force Colonel John W. Weltman. In late 1951 or early 1952, while flying a Lockheed C-45 transport plane near the North Carolina-Virginia border, Weltman and two other colonels witnessed a large, bright light that matched their aircraft's speed. After about 30-40 seconds, the object ascended vertically at high speed and disappeared. At the time, UFOs were considered a joke, so they did not report it. Weltman later believed it might have been a UFO. The article notes this encounter occurred shortly before the 1952 Washington D.C. UFO flap and the sighting of the "Flatwoods Monster."

Commentary: UFO Progress?

Tom Deuley, MUFON International's corporate secretary, expresses concern about the declining use of the scientific method and common sense in UFO study. He argues that the field is becoming more like a mythical religion than a science, driven by ego satisfaction and financial gain rather than evidence. Deuley urges investigators to ask hard questions, avoid spreading unfounded stories, insist on checkable facts, and never accept unnamed sources as experts. He emphasizes that if something seems too good to be true, it probably isn't.

Deuley also touches on the influence of science fiction, noting how early writers like Hugo Grensback aimed to make science appealing through fiction. He points to a 1935 Astounding Stories cover depicting aliens with slit mouths and large eyes, examining a woman on a table, as an example of themes present in early sci-fi that foreshadowed modern abduction narratives.

Deep Throat

This section provides various UFO-related rumors and news snippets:

• Rumors: Steven Greer, MD, of CSETI reportedly "abducted" a videotape of a triangular craft in Scotland. The video's authenticity is questioned.
• "Sightings" TV Show: The show is airing on the SciFi Channel and may feature recent Texas UFO sightings.
• Houston UFO Network (HUFON): Their "abductions chief investigator" spoke at a crystal kissing event in Austin. Meteorites are reportedly being implanted in abductees.
• Derrel Sims: The "abductions chief investigator" for HUFON is mentioned. His work on alleged alien implants is noted.
• Derrel Sims Spotlight: A transcript from a talk by Derrel Sims, "chief investigator for the Houston UFO Network," is presented. Sims discusses alleged human alien activity and the removal of anomalous objects from abductees. He claims two of four objects tested showed "off-world and on-world material," with one possibly being an artifact from the Roswell crash. He emphasizes the scientific rigor of his team's approach.
• Derrel Sims's Methods: Sims describes his work involving hypnotic anesthesia and the analysis of alleged alien artifacts, noting that the objects do not show signs of inflammation and are difficult to cut. He mentions elements found in an object that do not occur naturally together.
• Radio Broadcasts: Don Ecker's radio program "UFOs Tonight" has been replaced by "The UFO Report" on Cable Radio Network. DT hopes Ecker and Dwight Schultz find a new outlet.
• Art Bell: Art Bell has reportedly received "Art's Parts" allegedly from the Roswell crash, which are being tested for electrical properties and levitation.
• University of Pisa: Tests on alleged alien artifacts were conducted at the University of Pisa, though DT notes it's not the "University of Pizza."

Spotlight on Derrel Sims: In His Own Words

This section features a transcript of a talk by Derrel Sims, who identifies himself as the "chief investigator for the Houston UFO Network" and an "Alien Hunter." Sims discusses his work investigating alleged alien abductions and the removal of anomalous objects. He claims that scientific analysis of these objects has revealed unusual materials and that some may be extraterrestrial artifacts, including one possibly from the Roswell crash. Sims emphasizes the importance of treating evidence with scientific scrutiny and maintaining privacy until ready to reveal findings.

UFO Notebook: UFO Progress?

This section includes a piece by Bill Eatwell discussing propulsion systems and zero point energy (ZPE). Eatwell explains ZPE as the kinetic energy remaining in a system at absolute zero and its potential for achieving anti-gravity and artificial gravity propulsion. He references physicist Harold E. Puthoff's work on ZPE and the concept of "hyperspace surfing" as a potential method for interstellar travel.

UFO LINGO: The Bob Shell Comma Affair

This article by Bob Shell addresses grammatical issues, specifically the use of commas with appositives. Shell explains how punctuation can lead to ambiguity in sentences, using examples related to "Budd Hopkins" and his fiancée, Carol. He clarifies the difference between masculine and feminine forms of "fiancé" and discusses punctuation rules for quotation marks in American and British English. The article notes that Budd Hopkins and Carol Rainey were married on August 17, 1996.

OOPS!

A correction is made regarding the editor of the Florida newsletter National UFO News (NUFON).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the influence of popular culture and folklore on UFO beliefs, particularly alien abduction. The magazine consistently questions the scientific validity of many UFO claims, advocating for a rigorous application of the scientific method and common sense. There's a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, with a focus on separating evidence from speculation and myth. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, urging readers to be discerning and to avoid unsubstantiated claims. The magazine also highlights the importance of historical context and the evolution of ideas surrounding UFOs over time. The publication announces its cessation of regular publication, signaling a shift in its dissemination strategy.

Title: HOUSTON SKY
Issue: No. 11
Date: June-October 1996
Publisher: Houston Sky
Country: USA
Language: English
Cover Headline: One-of-a-Kind UFO Birdhouses

This issue of Houston Sky, a publication serving as a forum for the exchange of ideas within the UFO community, features a cover story on artist Randy Sewell's unique UFO-themed birdhouses. The magazine also includes a review of early science fiction films that influenced UFO culture, discussions on alleged alien encounters and evidence, and information on local MUFON activities.

Feature: One-of-a-Kind UFO Birdhouses

The cover story by Gayle Nesom introduces the handcrafted UFO birdhouses created by Atlanta-based artist Randy Sewell. Sewell has been constructing these "bird-art" structures for ten years, with designs including baseball stadiums, roadside stands, diners, muffler shops, drive-in theaters, fishing stands, and corn dog kiosks. His UFO-themed birdhouses, described as functional and artistic, are made of metallic-silver and adorned with Russian space program insignia pins. Priced between $125 and $600, each birdhouse is signed, numbered, and comes with a display base. Sewell can be contacted through Sewell Stained Glass in Atlanta, Georgia.

Spotlight: Alleged Alien Autopsy and Abduction Evidence

This section delves into controversial topics related to UFO phenomena, including alleged alien autopsy evidence and human-alien abductions. The article quotes an individual named Derrel, who claims to have access to more information than what is publicly available on television. Derrel mentions an ongoing effort to write a scientific paper on "meteorites" found inside people, which he suggests might be related to alien abductions. He states that they have applied to have this paper peer-reviewed at Stanford and MIT, emphasizing the need for scientific scrutiny.

An editor's note clarifies that claiming to be "accepted to write a paper" for a peer-reviewed journal is contradictory and meaningless until the peer review process is passed. The note also questions the validity of Derrel's claims regarding Stanford and MIT, as the Society for Scientific Exploration (SSE), whose president is Stanford astrophysicist Peter Sturrock, is not directly associated with the universities in the manner implied.

The discussion then shifts to a case involving a woman who reported a hole in her navel, a possible alien impregnation, and the birth of a child described as looking like a grasshopper. The interviewee, who claims to have a background as a private investigator and former CIA officer, discusses the process of gathering information and the need to wait for all evidence before drawing conclusions. He expresses excitement about potentially obtaining a genetic test from the child.

Review: 27 Early Sci-Fi Movies

Authored by Gayle Nesom and Rebecca Schatte, this section reviews 27 early science fiction films that are credited with influencing the public's fascination with UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The article posits that technological advancements, historical events like World War II and the Cold War, and the fear of atomic bombs contributed to a growing curiosity about the universe and potential alien existence. Early sci-fi movies, in turn, fed and amplified these feelings.

The list includes notable films such as:

• 1902 "A Trip to the Moon": Praised for its primitive but pioneering special effects.
• 1909 "The Airship Destroyers": One of the first films to depict UFOs.
• 1928 "Woman on the Moon": Featured a rocket design so authentic that the film was reportedly suppressed out of fear of espionage.
• 1948 "Bruce Conrad-Daredevil of the Skies": A matinee serial involving flying disks and demented scientists.
• 1951 "The Day the Earth Stood Still": Aliens warn humanity about its use of atomic power and its potential for self-destruction.
• 1951 "The Thing": An arctic team thaws out a deadly alien.
• 1951 "Man From Planet X": Portrays aliens as weak and vulnerable.
• 1953 "It Came From Outer Space" (3-D): A UFO lands in Arizona, and aliens enlist locals to help repair their ship.
• 1953 "Invaders From Mars" (3-D): Features tiny probes implanted in humans as monitors.
• 1953 "War of the Worlds": Martians rebuff human attempts at friendship.
• 1953 "The Blob": A giant, Jell-O-like creature from space threatens a small town.
• 1954 "Killers From Space": A scientist experiences missing time after a crash and undergoes regression.
• 1954 "Stranger From Venus": A low-budget film about Venusians helping humankind.
• 1955 "This Island Earth": Aliens abduct scientists to enlist their help in saving their planet.
• 1956 "Not of This Earth": Aliens collect human blood to combat a plague on their world.
• 1956 "Invasion of the Body Snatchers": Parasitic aliens replace small-town residents.
• 1956 "Forbidden Planet": Castaways on Altair-4 discover ancient alien technology.
• 1956 "Earth Versus the Flying Saucers": An army general is abducted, and his mind is probed.
• 1956 "It Conquered the World": Alien implants turn humans into invaders.
• 1957 "Invasion of the Saucermen": Features small aliens with large heads and eyes.
• 1957 "The 27th Day": Five people are abducted onto a spaceship where time slows.
• 1958 "The Blob": An alien creature that can change shape at will.
• 1959 "Plan 9 From Outer Space": A poorly regarded film about alien grave robbers.
• 1960 "Village of the Damned": Women are impregnated by aliens, giving birth to hybrid babies.
• 1963 "The Day of the Triffids": Earth is invaded by alien spores from a meteorite.
• 1964 "First Men in the Moon": A British film based on H.G. Wells' story.
• 1960s "The Invaders" (TV series): Beings from a dying world attempt to take over Earth.

Of Interest: Local Events and Resources

The "Of Interest" section provides information on upcoming events and resources for UFO enthusiasts in the Houston area and beyond:

• VISIT (Vehicle Internal Systems Investigative Team): A meeting scheduled for November 14th at the Freeman Memorial Library in Clear Lake City.
• HUFON (Houston UFO Network): Monthly meetings held on the first Friday of the month at the Innova Building in Houston.
• Martian Meteor Exhibit: An exhibit at the Burke Baker Planetarium at the Museum of Natural Science in Houston, featuring modern astronomy, exploration of Mars, and a meteorite believed to have originated from Mars.
• Austin MUFON Experiencers' Support Group: Monthly meetings held on the second Sunday of the month at the Austin History Center.
• MUFON UFO Hotline: A national hotline number is provided for reporting sightings.

The section also includes a quote attributed to Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of committed individuals can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

Publication Information

Houston Sky is published six times a year, having begun in October 1994. The magazine welcomes swaps with other publications and offers individual copies for $3. The Jun.-Oct. 1996 issue is being mailed to 300 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 costing $30.

Contact information is provided for the HS Editor, Gayle Nesom, MUFON Assistant State Director, Rebecca Schatte, and columnist Bill Eatwell. The publication's mailing address is PO Box 1718, Bellaire, Texas 77402.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of art and UFO culture (through the birdhouses), the historical influence of science fiction on UFO beliefs, and the ongoing investigation into alleged UFO phenomena and encounters. The editorial stance, as stated, is to provide a forum for open exchange of ideas, emphasizing that the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial staff or MUFON. The publication encourages critical examination of evidence, as highlighted by the editor's note on peer review and the emphasis on scientific scrutiny.