Journal of the Fortean Research Center - Vol 3 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of the JOURNAL of the FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER, Volume III, No. 4, dated Winter 1988, features a cover headline about "Blood falls from the sky in New England." The issue also includes "PLUS... Responses to the John Lear Statement," an "Interview with Alan Boye," "The Rainbow Declaration," and "Much More!" The price is $3.50.

Table of Contents and Staff

The journal is published by the Fortean Research Center, located in Lincoln, NE, USA. The staff includes Director Scott Colborn, Associate Director Dale Bacon, Secretary Kim Kramer, Treasurer Lin Bacon, Astronomical Advisor Erik Hubl, and Special Projects Ed Rumbaugh. The Table of Contents lists articles such as "From the Editor," "Director's Message," "Fortean Research Center Update," "Exploring Unexplained Phenomena Update," an interview with Alan Boye, "Blood Falls from the Sky in New England" by Scott Colborn, and various responses to the John Lear Statement. It also includes a book review and "Sky Watch."

Membership in the Fortean Research Center is $15.00 per year and includes a subscription to the Journal, discounts on publications, and reduced fees to conferences.

The Journal is published quarterly by the Fortean Research Center, a non-profit corporation dedicated to investigating all aspects of unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, cryptozoological mysteries, and psychic phenomena.

Editor's and Director's Messages

The "From the Editor" section welcomes readers to the Winter 1988 issue. The Mars Project by Harry Jordan, previously announced, has been postponed to Spring 1989. The editor notes that responses to the John Lear Statement are included, and clarifies that these opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of the Fortean Research Center. The printing of the journal was done by T.S.A. Graphics in Omaha, NE.

The "Director's Message" expresses anticipation for 1989, with plans to cover phenomena such as the MJ-12 documents and the Lear hypothesis. The Center is developing a library of cassette tapes of their radio shows, "Exploring Unexplained Phenomena," for members. The director encourages members to submit articles and stories.

Fortean Research Center Activities and Updates

The "Center has really grown in the last 12 months!" The Center hosted the MUFON '88 Symposium in Lincoln, which led to the formation of a support group for individuals with contact or abduction experiences. The director plans to publish some of these accounts in the future.

An abductee from Lincoln received an unsigned letter mentioning projects like JAVTO, HOVER, and BLACKBIRD, and suggesting that UFO crash stories are true. The Center plans to pursue FOIA requests regarding these projects.

Another abductee from Lincoln experienced a series of encounters. A phone call from someone identifying themselves as "Bob Collins, asst. director for MUFON in South Dakota" is detailed. This individual asked questions about the abductee's case. Investigations by the journal's staff suggest that "Bob Collins" might be "Condor," an intelligence contact from the "UFO Cover-up, Live" documentary. However, interviews with researchers like Walt Andrus and William Moore cast doubt on this identity, as the Bob Collins known to them has no connection to UFO abductions in Nebraska. The author questions the authenticity of this "Bob Collins."

The "FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER UPDATE" reviews 1988, noting the stepping down of Raymond W. Boeche as Director and the assumption of the role by Scott Colborn. Dale Bacon took over as Associate Director and Editor. Other staff changes included Nancy Boeche relinquishing the Treasurer position to Lin Bacon, Kim Kramer becoming Secretary, and Erik Hubl becoming Astronomical Advisor. The Center hosted the 1988 Mutual UFO Network Symposium in Lincoln, managing logistics and providing audio-cassette tapes of the event, which received an overwhelming response.

The Center also purchased duplicating equipment for tapes and formed a Speaker's Bureau. They participated in the SPECTRA EXPO in Omaha, NE. Investigations in 1988 included UFO sightings (CE-1), CE-3 and CE-4 encounters, a case of "blood falling on a house," and ongoing research into farmland north of Lincoln. The "Exploring Unexplained Phenomena" radio broadcast, hosted by Scott Colborn and Dale Bacon, has been a key outlet for information since 1984.

Exploring Unexplained Phenomena Update

This section highlights the "Exploring Unexplained Phenomena" radio program, which has been broadcasting weekly since 1984. The program covers UFOs, bipedal humanoids, and anomalistic phenomena. The Fortean PHONE FUND has allowed hosts Scott Colborn and Dale Bacon to expand their sources. The update lists guests from 1988, including Harry Jordan (Mars Project), "Rusty" Williams (A Course in Miracles), Madame Aquarius (Astrology), Walt Andrus (MUFON, Gulf Breeze flap), Jerome Clark (FATE magazine, UFO abductions), Budd Hopkins (UFO encounter side effects), Rev. Barry Downing (UFOs in biblical days), Dr. David Jacobs (Post-Abduction Syndrome), Alan Boye (haunts of Lincoln), Tom Adams (cattle mutilations), Dr. Ruth Ross (positive energy workshops), Three Eagles (Native American spiritualism), Harry Jordan/Dr. John Brandenburg (Mars Project), and Susan Shumsky (Divine Revelation). Leonard Stringfield discussed UFO crashes and retrievals. Carol Bedient shared insights on intuitive awareness. John Lear stated, "The U.S. Government sold everyone out to the aliens." Ida Kannenberg presented a positive view of EBE contact, and Larry Koss channels information.

Interview with Alan Boye

An exclusive interview with Alan Boye, author of "A Guide to the Ghosts of Lincoln," is presented. Boye, an English teacher and historian, discusses his interest in ghosts, which stems from childhood fascination and living in Lincoln during the time the C.C. White building was prominent. He has written books on ghost stories set in Lincoln and Chicago. Boye explains his research methodology, which involves placing ads in newspapers and sifting through submitted stories. He categorizes evidence into primary and secondary. He mentions haunted locations like the C.C. White Building and the Willa Cather home in Lincoln, and a haunted theater in Chicago. Boye also addresses the "kooks" in the ghost community and offers a perspective on the greatest ghost story being Jesus' resurrection. He recounts investigating a haunted building associated with Richard Speck and mentions a spot in Antelope Park known for nervousness. He also touches upon reports of UFO sightings near Van Dorn street in Lincoln.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, alleged government cover-ups, abduction experiences, and paranormal events such as ghosts and hauntings. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "From the Editor" section, is to present a variety of viewpoints, particularly regarding controversial topics like the John Lear Statement, while maintaining that these opinions do not necessarily represent the Center's official stance. The Fortean Research Center positions itself as a source of accurate and reliable information on a wide range of unexplained phenomena.

Title: FORTEAN RESEARCH JOURNAL
Issue: 11
Volume: III
Date: SPRING '89 (April 1989)
Publisher: Fortean Research Center
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Fortean Research Journal delves into unexplained phenomena, primarily focusing on a perplexing case dubbed "BLOOD FALLS from the SKY Part I" by Scott H. Colborn. The journal also includes discussions on ghost theories, reader responses to an article about extraterrestrials, and other miscellaneous Fortean topics.

Blood Falls from the Sky: Part I

The lead article by Scott H. Colborn details an investigation into a series of events in New England where a red substance, later identified as human blood type A+, was reported to be falling from the sky onto a private residence. The report is based on conversations with a UFO researcher and information obtained from police and lab reports. The incidents occurred primarily on N. Blueberry St. and involved multiple witnesses, including residents of the affected house (D.A., W.M., T.R., B.M., L.A.) and a neighbor (B.R.).

Initial Reports and Investigation

The phenomenon began around July 25, 1988, with reports of blood-like substance on the sidewalk and porch. Police officers, including Det. S. & P. and Lt. F., were called to the scene. Samples were collected and sent for analysis, confirming the substance as human blood type A+. The initial reports suggested the liquid fell from the sky with no apparent source. Reporting officers observed the substance on various exterior surfaces of the house, including the front porch, screen doors, sidewalk, and windows.

Witness Testimonies

Residents D.A. and L.A. reported seeing the substance falling from the sky, with L.A. stating she was directly hit by it. The falls occurred intermittently for about 12 days, starting around dark and lasting until approximately 2300 hrs. A daytime fall was reported on August 10th. After a 25-day break, the falls resumed on September 4th and continued for several more days. Witnesses described the substance as a red liquid, sometimes with a white foam, and on one occasion, with what appeared to be saliva.

Analysis and Theories

Despite extensive investigation, including interviews with neighbors and attempts to find explanations, no clear cause for the blood falls was determined. The reporting officers found no evidence of occult activity or any logical explanation for the source of the blood. The article notes that neighbors were familiar with the incident but had never seen its origin.

Related Incidents and Witness Accounts

Further details emerge from a statement by Detective H.P., who interviewed witnesses D.A. and H.M. The witnesses described the substance falling on cars, the street, sidewalk, steps, porch, and windowsills. They also recounted instances where the substance appeared inside the house, near basement windows, and on vehicles parked outside. The residents expressed fear and confusion, with some agreeing to take polygraph exams to prove their veracity. The article also touches upon a past incident involving T.R. and a girl named K.S. from school, where a seance reportedly led to T.R. feeling sick and scared, and K.S. allegedly claiming to have made a girl fall and engaging in devil worship.

Reader Responses and Other Topics

Ghost Theories: In a conversation with FRC, an individual named AB discusses various theories about ghosts. One theory suggests ghosts are manifestations of the subconscious of the culture, collectively creating them. Another posits a "psychic film-loop" that records and replays events. Finding a ghost involves researching the history of a location and looking for historical events or previous owners.

Bloody Mary Story: The "Bloody Mary" story is used as an example of a persistent folklore tale that gains validity through collective imagination, existing as a "living being" within the culture.

John Lear Article Response: Several readers respond to a previous article by John Lear concerning extraterrestrials and alleged mutilations. R.S. from Missouri suggests comparing ET mutilations with livestock mutilations and questions the purpose behind them, speculating on the survival needs of extraterrestrials. R.S. also notes the historical migration of science and conflicts, suggesting a potential North-South trend in future activities and questioning the purpose of the "Star Wars" program as a defense against UFOs rather than communism. R.S. also observes that ETs might resemble clones and wear protective gear, and suggests the Fortean Research Center could obtain federal grants due to increased government acknowledgment of UFOs.

"Essay Bea" Response: "Essay Bea" from Missouri expresses unease with John Lear's ideas but finds the "Lear Papers" intriguing, particularly the claim that an alien group "created Christ." This claim, "Essay Bea" suggests, could explain the denial of extraterrestrial intelligence and the extraordinary efforts to conceal it. The response also touches upon the mystery of why many in the New Testament fail to accept Jesus and questions the nature of existence, suggesting it might be a form of experiment.

Further Reflections on ETs and Existence: Another section, seemingly from R.S., contemplates the nature of ETs, suggesting they might be clones unable to reproduce naturally and were transplanted to Earth during periods of environmental hostility. The author speculates that "Yeti" and "bigfoot" could be earlier transplants. The possibility of Venus undergoing conversion for life and humanity selecting other planets is also mentioned. The author expresses concern that governments might be worried about ET aggression and views Nature as representing a grander physical existence than humanity, referencing a recent church decree that God was a man.

"Essay Bea" on Existence and UFOs: "Essay Bea" further reflects on John Lear's statement, finding some suggestions questionable, such as a hologram device recording Earth's history and EBEs creating Christ. The author wonders if humanity's existence is a form of experiment and if the cycle of existence could be nominal. Regarding UFO phenomena, "Essay Bea" believes evidence exists but is suppressed due to fear. The concept of seeing the past in present time (like observing the Andromeda galaxy) leads to the question of whether the future can also be seen in the present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, particularly the "Blood Falls" case, and the exploration of paranormal and extraterrestrial theories. The journal presents witness testimonies, police reports, and scientific analysis, while acknowledging the lack of definitive answers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these mysteries, encouraging readers to consider various hypotheses, including those related to folklore, collective consciousness, and extraterrestrial intelligence. The inclusion of reader responses highlights a diverse range of perspectives on these topics, from skepticism to acceptance of extraordinary claims. The journal seems to foster a community of researchers and enthusiasts interested in the fringes of science and the unexplained.

This issue of the Fortean Research Journal, dated 1989, features a collection of articles and letters discussing UFO phenomena, alien contact, and alleged cover-ups, alongside an astronomy column.

Articles and Correspondence

An Open Letter to John Lear

This section begins with a letter from a correspondent identified as B.K. from Missouri, who comments on a hypothesis proposed by Mr. Lear regarding mind control by advanced intelligence, suggesting it could explain 'tribulations' and events over the years. B.K. recounts a personal UFO sighting in the Spring of 1953 while flying a J3 Cub in Missouri. He describes seeing a 'foo fighter' flying in formation with him, which maintained its speed, then reversed course and disappeared. Despite flying over 10,000 hours worldwide and witnessing strange aerial phenomena, including in combat in Vietnam, this was his only unexplained sighting. B.K. also mentions an instance where he was unable to get information about a specific hanger at Wright-Patterson AFB, being told by a local that it did not exist. He expresses hope that Lear's work will convince the media of the reality of these phenomena and believes that UFOs will make their presence known in greater numbers, possibly by the end of 1993. B.K. also requests a copy of a videotape from Bill Moore and asks for further information from Lear's analysis of incoming letters.

Response to John Lear Statement by Leonard Stringfield

Leonard Stringfield responds to John Lear's 'The UFO Coverup,' an updated paper from late 1988. Stringfield considers the possibility that Lear might be used by 'disinformists' or be a covert agent testing public reaction, but ultimately leans towards Lear having 'hit the nail on the head' regarding a massive cover-up. He acknowledges the grim nature of Lear's conclusions, which suggest alien intent is not benevolent, possibly hostile. Stringfield notes that Lear's sources, though not fully disclosed, seem credible and that Lear is direct in presenting his findings. He empathizes with the difficulty of dealing with sensitive sources who often require anonymity, suggesting Lear's hands might be tied. Stringfield also mentions that he has been receiving similar grim input for over a year but cautions against precipitous conclusions due to his experience with 'mis/disinformation business.' He recalls being warned in the summer of 1988 to be watchful for planted information. Stringfield touches upon the 'alien grays' and their alleged venture to subdue mankind through abuses, cattle mutilations, and genetic experimentation. He is preparing to release his new Status Report V, 'UFO Crash/Retrievals: Is the Coverup Lid Lifting?', in early 1989, which he states contains new information from reliable sources. He concludes by noting that when he asked a source about alleged alien underground activities, the response was simply, 'the situation is serious.'

Response to John Lear Statement by Ida Kannenberg

Ida Kannenberg shares her personal experiences related to UFOs and alien contact. She recounts childhood encounters with two men who gave her instructions to 'learn to write well' and 'study grammar.' Years later, under hypnosis, she learned these instructions were communicated 'inside her head.' In 1940, she witnessed a flaming object resembling a full moon, which later appeared as a blazing red ball at ground level. She describes being lured from her car and taken aboard a craft where implants were made, allowing aliens to 'see through her eyes and hear through her ears,' and to control her muscular system. Kannenberg states that mental telepathy began in 1968, initially terrifying her, but later becoming a constant contact for eleven years. She has recorded thousands of words of 'dication' and undergone 'initiatory events.' She claims to have made friends and enemies among contactors who believe they are connected with the UFO phenomenon. These contactors emphasize that UFO people are not all from one planet, not all the same kind of being, and do not all have the same purpose. They speak of an enormous 'Overall Plan' encompassing many worlds and beings, with Earth organizations and brotherhoods included. The 'EBEs' (Extra-Terrestrial Biological Entities) are highlighted as being responsible for biological intervention with humans. Kannenberg suggests these EBEs are semi-programmed and questions who altered them and sent them. She believes the EBEs are not their own masters and that the 'Masters' have roots with Earth humanity. The EBEs' desire to regain Earth humanity and their envy of human capacities are cited as reasons for biological intervention with abductees. Kannenberg points out that such intervention has never been part of any agreement with governments. She proposes that researchers regress abductees to puberty to discover if a prior agreement was made and subsequently wiped from memory.

The Rainbow Declaration by John E. Brandenburg, Ph.D.

This section presents 'The Rainbow Declaration,' authored by John E. Brandenburg, Ph.D., dated June 22, 1988. The declaration is a solemn statement by the people of Earth, acknowledging a common Creator and recognizing Earth as their Planet of Genesis. It pledges to preserve Earth and calls for kindness, justice, and peace among all humanity, urging cooperation to ease hunger, disease, and overpopulation. The declaration emphasizes unity and proposes that the Secretary General of the United Nations, with the Security Council's advice, be the sole representative of humanity in dealings with extraterrestrials, with all agreements being public and ratified. It extends greetings to 'fellow peoples in the community of the Cosmos' and asserts that all peoples are created equal with inalienable rights, including the right to possession of their homeworld, sanctity from alien intrusion, possession of genetic code under reciprocal exchange, and permanent authority over orbiting bodies. It also asserts the right to freedom of peaceful navigation of space and the right to assert and defend these rights. The declaration places the burden of proof-of-innocence on alien parties in disputes and pledges to uphold these rights and principles.

Book Review: Extra-Terrestrials Among Us by George C. Andrews

Reviewed by Kirk Fenster, this section discusses George C. Andrews' book, 'Extra-Terrestrials Among Us.' Andrews, after a personal UFO sighting, spent a decade researching UFO data. The book covers UFO phenomena from antiquity to the present, including animal mutilations, mystery helicopters, and the ET connection. It highlights Morris Jessup, CIA corruptions, and suppression of UFO information. Fenster notes that the book focuses on the entities piloting UFOs and suggests it touches on almost every aspect of UFOlogy. He perceives a sense of paranoia in the author's urgent message about mankind ignoring UFOs and the environment. Fenster highly recommends the book.

Sky Watch Column

By Erik Hubl

Erik Hubl's 'Sky Watch' column for the early part of 1989 focuses on celestial events. He notes that while Mars is no longer as bright as in the previous fall, it will have a spectacular event on March 12th when it aligns with Jupiter, appearing only 2 degrees apart. A waxing crescent moon will also be visible. Jupiter, having come out of retrograde on January 20th, is still bright and will move eastward. Mars is at magnitude +1.1, while Jupiter is at -2.2. The column also mentions Saturn, which has reappeared in the morning sky after being behind the sun, and will be visible near Sagittarius for about 28 years. Venus will accompany Saturn, appearing as an 'evening star' by May, and its phases can be observed through a telescope. Leo the Lion is highlighted as heralding springtime. The constellation Cancer the Crab is described, with the 'fuzzy spot' M-44, the Beehive star cluster, being visible with binoculars. The Vernal Equinox is noted to occur on March 20th, bringing 12 hours of daylight and darkness. The column also discusses the visibility of satellites, which can be confused with UFOs, and mentions that over 6,000 pieces of space hardware are in orbit. It details upcoming celestial events for the first half of 1989, including a partial lunar eclipse on February 20th (visible in the Western US) and a partial solar eclipse on March 7th (visible in the Middle and Western US). Hubl provides safety advice for viewing the sun, recommending a pinhole projector method. He also explains Universal Time (UT) and astronomical magnitude. The column concludes by inviting questions and previewing articles for the Spring 1989 issue, including 'The Mars Project' and 'The Cash-Landrum UFO Incident.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Fortean Research Journal consistently explores topics related to the unexplained, with a particular focus on UFOs, alien encounters, and alleged government cover-ups. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting various hypotheses and personal accounts while acknowledging the challenges of research, such as dealing with sensitive sources and potential disinformation. The journal encourages critical thinking and public education on these subjects, as evidenced by the discussions around John Lear's theories and the detailed astronomical observations, which ground some of the more speculative content in observable facts. The publication seems to aim at providing a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share information and perspectives on a wide range of fortean subjects.

This document is a listing of available back issues for the FORTEAN RESEARCH JOURNAL, published by the FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER. The issues span from Volume I, Number 1 (April 1986) to Volume III, Number 4 (Winter 1988-89). The journal covers a wide array of topics related to fortean phenomena, UFOs, and unexplained events.

Back Issues Catalog

The journal is available at $3.50 U.S. per issue, with an additional $0.65 for postage and handling per order. Payments should be made via checks or money orders payable to the FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER; cash should not be sent through the mail.

Volume I (1986)

• No. 1 (April 1986): Features articles on 'Winged Wonder Over Falls City, NE', 'DIA Documents Released', 'What's a Milo Man?', 'Where's Steve McQueen When You Need Him?', and 'Fortean News Flashes'.
• No. 2 (July 1986): Includes 'In Memorium', 'You May Be On File', 'The Ultimate Scarecrow', 'DOE Releases UFO Documents', 'May I See Some ID?', 'Fortean News Flashes', and 'And Guess What Else Happened At Bentwaters?'.
• No. 3 (October 1986): Contains '1947 FBI Document', 'Air Force Blue Book Cancellation Memo', 'Kirkland UFO Landing Document', 'Bentwaters "Halt" Memo', 'British Ministry of Defense Bentwaters Memo', 'Ellsworth AFB UFO Attack Report', 'McGuire AFB Alien Shooting Report'.
• No. 4 (December 1986): Features 'Project Moon Dust Case File' and 'Fortean News Flashes'.

Volume II (1987)

• No. 1 (April 1987): Includes 'Bipedal Humanoids' and 'Fortean News Flashes', alongside 'Strange Harvest: An Update' and 'Book Reviews'.
• No. 2 (July 1987): Contains a 'Special Report on Operation MJ-12'.
• No. 3 (October 1987): Features 'Verdict Still Open on MJ-12', 'Strange Deaths, & etc.', and 'Fortean News Flashes'.
• No. 4 (December 1987): Includes 'Weird Water Wonders', 'FBI Missing Time Memo', 'FBI Men-In-Black. Memos, Replies', 'UFO Cover Up Letter from FBI Files', 'CIA Memo-Covert UFO Investigations', and 'CIA MOMO-Covert UFO Research'.

Volume III (1988-1989)

• No. 1 (May 1988): Features 'Bipedal Humanoid Update', 'UFO Update', and 'Gulf Breeze UFO Incident'.
• No. 2 (July 1988): Contains a 'Special Report' on the '1988 MUFON SYMPOSIUM in Lincoln'.
• No. 3 (Fall 1988): Includes 'John Lear Statement', 'Bill English Statement', 'the Warehouse-story by Alan Boye'.
• No. 4 (Winter 1988-89): Features 'Responses to the Lear Statement', 'Interview with Alan Boye', 'Blood Fall in New England', and '1988 in Review'.

Supporting Organizations

The second page lists several organizations that deal with the unexplained, encouraging readers to support them financially and in spirit. These include:

• ARCTURUS BOOK SERVICE
• MUTUAL UFO NETWORK (MUFON)
• CITIZENS AGAINST UFO SECRECY
• NEBRASKAN'S FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF SPACE DEVELOPMENT
• GHOST RESEARCH SOCIETY
• PASU
• INTERNATIONAL UFO REPORTER
• SITU
• JAPAN SPACE PHENOMENA SOCIETY
• SPECTRA, INC.
• KZUM-FM 89.3
• UFO
• UFO CONTACT CENTER INTERNATIONAL

The FORTEAN RESEARCH CENTER itself is described as a non-profit corporation for the study of unexplained phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these back issues are UFO sightings, government secrecy and cover-ups (particularly involving the FBI, CIA, DIA, and DOE), and other unexplained phenomena. The journal appears to be a platform for reporting on investigations, documents, and witness accounts related to these subjects. The editorial stance, as suggested by the 'Help Our Friends' section, is one of support for the broader community of researchers and organizations dedicated to studying the unexplained.