Journal of the Fortean Research Center - Vol 6 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Journal of the Fortean Research Center, dated Fall 1994 and identified as Volume VI, No. I, explores a diverse array of unexplained phenomena under the cover headline "Entering the Gates of Inquiry." The journal is published by the Fortean Research Center, a non-profit corporation based in Lincoln, NE, dedicated to investigating unexplained phenomena.

From the Editor

In his editorial, Editor Gary Carey notes the relevance of "change" to the journal's content, contrasting this issue's broad scope with the previous issue's focus on alien abduction. This issue touches upon topics such as dowsing, PSI, burn circles, panspermia, big cat sightings, and UFO censorship. Carey expresses enthusiasm for in-depth articles and announces the debut of a regular column by Linda Moulton Howe, described as one of the world's foremost authorities on Fortean matters. Howe is recognized for her work on animal mutilation, her documentary film work, and her investigations into crop circles, having received a MUFON award for her contributions to understanding alien life forms.

Carey welcomes new voices and highlights numerous fields of inquiry beyond frequently revisited subjects like aliens, UFOs, abductions, ghosts, and Bigfoot. He invites readers to submit articles on topics including ESP, spiritual healing, Project Blue Book, clairvoyance, astral travel, psychic readings, channeling, black helicopters, crystals, Wicca, ancient astronauts, prophecy, hauntings, poltergeists, runes, dreams, karma, parallel worlds, reincarnation, exorcism, Gulf Breeze, Men in Black, astrology, the face on Mars, Native American wisdom, and MJ-12.

The editor also reminds readers to consider a year's subscription as a gift and looks forward to the next issue, which will feature an article on Fortean philosophy by FRC Director Ray W. Boeche. The editorial concludes with thanks to members who renewed their memberships.

Contents

The table of contents lists the following articles:

• 2 Glimpses of Other Realities by Linda Moulton Howe
• 6 Big Cat Sightings in Nebraska by Tom Keith
• 10 Researcher Battles Military UFO Censorship
• 12 Paranormal Is the Norm for PSI by Linda Keith, Janice Hayes, Marilyn Keeney
• 15 Dowsing by Joe Smith
• 17 Science and the Fortean by Don Joy
• 19 Alfalfa Burn Circle by Lon Nansel
• 21 Books by Ray Boeche
• 22 Fortean News

Journal Information

The journal's address is P.O. Box 94627, Lincoln, NE 68509. The Board of Directors includes Ray W. Boeche (Director), Steve Johnson (Assistant Director), Ed Rumbaugh (Treasurer), Lee Debus (Secretary), Gary Carey (Editor), Frank Dreier (Contributing Editor), Tom Keith (Director/Investigations), and Lon Nansel (Director-at-Large).

The Fortean Research Center is a non-profit corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501 (c) (3). Membership is $20.00 per year and includes four issues of the Journal and an occasional Newsletter. Contributions are tax-deductible. Contents are copyrighted by the authors and the Center, with opinions and factual statements being the responsibility of the authors.

Glimpses of Other Realities (Page 2-5)

Authored by Linda Moulton Howe, this article explores the concept of life on Earth originating from extraterrestrial seeding, a theory known as panspermia. Howe references biologist William D. Hamilton's idea of the universe as a zoo for extraterrestrial beings who planted the seeds of evolution.

She discusses the work of Nobel laureates Svante August Arrhenius and Francis Crick. Arrhenius proposed panspermia, while Crick later expanded on it with "directed panspermia," suggesting that the uniformity of Earth's genetic code implies life might be a clone derived from a single extraterrestrial organism deliberately transmitted to Earth.

Howe also references a 1985 NASA report, "Search for the Universal Ancestors," which highlights the conceptual difficulties of a spontaneous origin for complex life. She mentions an alleged 1983 briefing paper for the U.S. president at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, which discussed the government's retrieval of crashed alien disks and non-human occupants since the 1940s. This paper reportedly suggested that an alien civilization had been involved in human evolution, even claiming that "All questions and mysteries about the evolution of Homo sapiens on this planet have been answered."

Howe's own book, "Glimpses of Other Realities," is presented as an evolution from letters and reports from individuals struggling to understand their experiences with intelligences beyond human. The first volume focuses on physical evidence, starting with the crop circle mystery. She notes that physical imprints of geometric designs have been found worldwide and that some biophysicists have identified biochemical and biophysical changes that cannot be hoaxed. The article connects crop formations to the worldwide animal mutilation mystery, noting the presence of dry, ceramic-hard circles found near mutilated animals. Howe questions whether these phenomena are produced by one or multiple intelligences and ponders their motives, suggesting that the harvest of tissue and fluids from animals and humans might be used to sustain another life form or even humanity.

The article touches upon the "UFO abduction syndrome," referencing a 1992 Roper Organization study. It highlights how abductees sometimes receive information about animal mutilations and sketch non-human creatures. Howe suggests that the government has been monitoring alien presence and technology for decades using "black" funds, leading to frustration among military personnel who feel compelled to maintain a policy of "ignorance is bliss" despite the planet being used by other life forms.

She quotes a military source stating, "Denying the alien presence... does not alter the fact that this planet is being used by other life forms." Howe also shares the perspective of physicist Fred Alan Wolf, who describes phenomena that force themselves upon us as "dark." She contrasts this with psychiatrist Dr. John Mack's findings that some abductees grow beyond fear and feel the phenomenon relates to the evolution of the human species. Howe concludes that a greater consciousness about a different and more complex universe is necessary, whether interacting entities are extraterrestrial biologicals, dimensionals, or angelic beings.

The article mentions that "Glimpses of Other Realities, Vol I-Facts and Eyewitnesses" can be ordered for $39.95 plus $5.00 shipping and handling from Linda Howe Productions.

Big Cat Sightings in Nebraska (Page 6-10)

Authored by Tom Keith, this article investigates reports of large, unidentified cat sightings in Nebraska. The author begins by defining cryptozoology and noting that sightings of strange animals have occurred for centuries.

Sterling, Nebraska, June-August 1994: Town marshall Ivan Heusman describes encounters with a large, puma-like cat, estimated to be between half and three-fourths the size of a mountain lion, weighing 60-75 pounds, and about three feet tall at the shoulder. Heusman suggested it might be a European cat due to its lightish-tan color and a black spot in its ear, differing from local bobcats. The cat displayed unusual tameness, not being afraid of people or other animals. Witnesses reported it walking calmly away when approached and sitting in the road without aggression. Despite initial fear, the community became less concerned due to the lack of problems.

Springfield, Nebraska-1993-94: A Springfield businessman reported seeing a big, shiny black cat, described as being about the size of a Labrador retriever and weighing around 100 pounds. He observed it walking along a field edge and near a river bottom with rocks. He took photos, which were shown on an Omaha television station. He later saw a smaller cat with the larger one, speculating it might be a female with a young one. Officials at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo dismissed his photos as a "big farm cat," which he disputes. A Game and Parks Commission conservation officer investigated the area but found no definitive tracks, only signs of movement.

The article notes that sightings occurred in spring, summer, and fall, but stopped when the harvest began. More sightings were reported the following spring. There were rumors of sheep or calves lost on a farm northwest of Springfield, but it was uncertain if they were due to natural causes or the cats. No carcasses of wild animals were found.

Wildlife biologist Frank Andelt of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission states that his office receives eight to twelve reports of strange animal sightings annually. He notes the difficulty in confirming reports due to delays in reporting and lack of detailed information. Andelt also finds the timing of reports puzzling, as sightings occur in warmer months but not in winter when animals would be easier to track.

Andelt recounts an instance where a biologist identified a large black cat running across the road as a black panther, only to discover it was a black dog. He also mentions a case near Hickman where biologists found large cat tracks but no sightings.

The article discusses the possibility that the cats are not wild. It mentions that exotic animals are sometimes purchased for private purposes and may escape. It is illegal to keep large cats or bears in captivity in Nebraska, with stiff penalties for violations of the Endangered Species Act or CITIES Act. This legal restriction makes it unlikely for owners of escaped exotic animals to report them to authorities.

Researcher Battles Military UFO Censorship (Page 10)

This section, though brief, implies a conflict between researchers and military entities regarding the suppression of information about UFOs. It suggests that the government has been monitoring alien presence and technology for decades using "black" funds, leading to a policy of secrecy to prevent public panic. Military personnel are reportedly frustrated by this secrecy.

Paranormal Is the Norm for PSI (Page 12)

This article, by Linda Keith, Janice Hayes, and Marilyn Keeney, likely delves into the nature and prevalence of paranormal abilities, suggesting that such phenomena are more common than generally acknowledged.

Dowsing (Page 15)

Authored by Joe Smith, this piece focuses on the practice of dowsing, a method used to locate underground water or other hidden objects, often using a Y-shaped rod or pendulum.

Science and the Fortean (Page 17)

Don Joy's article explores the intersection of scientific inquiry and the study of Fortean phenomena, which are events that defy conventional scientific explanation.

Alfalfa Burn Circle (Page 19)

Lon Nansel's article investigates a specific incident involving an "Alfalfa Burn Circle," likely referring to a crop circle phenomenon occurring in an alfalfa field.

Books (Page 21)

Ray Boeche's contribution is a review or listing of relevant books.

Fortean News (Page 22)

This section provides updates and brief reports on recent Fortean events and discoveries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, including UFOs, alleged alien encounters, paranormal abilities, and unexplained animal sightings. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages open inquiry into these subjects, even when they are controversial or dismissed by mainstream society. The introduction of Linda Moulton Howe's column and the emphasis on diverse topics suggest a commitment to presenting a wide range of evidence and perspectives on the unexplained. The journal appears to advocate for a broader understanding of reality that includes possibilities beyond the currently accepted scientific paradigms, encouraging readers to confront "other realities beyond the status quo" and to reject "ridicule and denial."

This issue of the Journal of the Fortean Research Center, Volume 6, No. 1, published in 1993, features a collection of articles exploring unexplained phenomena, personal experiences, and critical analyses of science and societal perceptions.

1993 Big Cat Sightings Reported to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Lincoln Office

The issue opens with a detailed report of big cat sightings in Nebraska during 1993. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Lincoln Office received numerous reports throughout the year. Sightings included a 40-pound tan cat in Lancaster County in February, a large cat resembling a bobcat on Highway 15 in Butler County in May, and reports of missing calves near Linwood in June. In June, a 30-40 pound cat with short gray hair and a long tail was seen in Lancaster County, and a large cat was sighted in the Alliance area of Box Butte County. July saw a large cat, possibly a mountain lion, run through a backyard in Lincoln. In September, a cat described as 'as big as a German shepherd' with a long tail was seen in the Niobrara River Valley, Cherry County. The year concluded with a report of a big, tanish-gold colored cat with big paws and a long tail seen in Lancaster County in December. The article also notes occasional reports of big cats being killed by hunters, often disposed of quietly due to negative publicity. A confirmed mountain lion sighting in Nebraska occurred in November 1991 when a Clay Center man killed one while hunting deer in the Pine Ridge; biologists suggested it likely originated in Wyoming. The article speculates that sightings could be due to wild cats, escaped exotic animals, misidentification, or even overactive imaginations. It emphasizes the importance of investigating these reports and encourages readers to contact Tom Keith, FRC Director of Investigations, with any relevant information.

Researcher Battles Military UFO Censorship

This section details the legal efforts of Larry W. Bryant, an official of Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), to gain access to military publications for his UFO-related advocacy. Bryant, whose past efforts led to the freeing of advertising pages in military 'commercial enterprise' newspapers for his 'UFO-coverup whistle-blower ads,' faced continued censorship when attempting to submit letters to the editor. His lawsuit, Bryant v. Weinberger, et al., sought to end this censorship, particularly concerning the Pentagram newspaper. The article mentions the Army's historical 'interplanetary phenomenon group' from the 1950s, which allegedly collected evidence of 'flying discs' that crash-landed near Roswell, New Mexico, in July 1947. Bryant is seeking information from members of this group to clarify the Roswell incident. He also highlights the refusal of the Stripe, the newspaper for Walter Reed Army Medical Center, to print his letter seeking testimony about the Roswell retrieval and autopsy. Bryant's lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, aims to counter prior-restraint censorship and encourage government officials to support UFO information freedom.

Fortean Research Center's BBS Celebrates 1st Birthday

A brief announcement celebrates the first anniversary of the Fortean Research Center's computer bulletin board (BBS). It invites users with computer and modem access to call the BBS 24/7 for news and information on upcoming events, and to access a file library of over 50 megabytes of reports and articles on unexplained phenomena. The BBS also hosts over 50 international conferences covering topics from dream interpretation to conspiracies and the occult, with opportunities to exchange ideas with experts like Dr. David Jacobs and Don Ecker.

Paranormal Is the Norm for PSI

This section introduces the Parapsychological Studies Institute (PSI), founded in January 1993, which brings together individuals interested in parapsychology, including dowsing, healing, channeling, and ghost phenomena. PSI holds monthly meetings featuring guest speakers. The newsletter, 'The PSI Spirit,' publishes articles from members. The section includes two personal experience articles:

The Guardian Angel with the Soft Southern Accent

Written by Linda Keith, this is a personal account of how a guardian angel intervened to save her brother Dick's life. Dick was born with a congenital heart defect and underwent two open-heart surgeries in his teens. During his second surgery, when his condition was critical, a nurse reported that a voice with a soft southern accent had called the surgeon, Dr. Grow, to the hospital, claiming Dick was in trouble. The surgeon was confused as no one on staff had made such a call. Dr. Grow later recounted that the voice had a soft southern accent. Although Dick's lungs collapsed shortly after, Dr. Grow was able to provide emergency aid, which likely saved his life. The author expresses gratitude to the guardian angel for ensuring Dick had more time to touch lives.

The Temple of the Energy

Authored by Janice Hayes, this article describes a unique church in Brasilia, Brazil, called the Temple of the Energy. Built by the people for the people against significant odds, it is shaped like a pyramid topped with a quartz crystal. The author describes an intense, pure, and powerful energy felt within the structure, which is built deep into the earth and illuminated by light filtering through glass strips. She recounts walking a spiral path of gray and white stones towards the center, where she felt the energy intensify, leading to an overwhelming sense of peace and awakening.

A Personal Experience... Visitation from an Animal Spirit

Written by Marilyn Keeney, this account describes a mysterious event that occurred in Norfolk, Nebraska, about thirty years prior when the author was a teenager. While parked in a car with friends, the car's clock suddenly stopped ticking, creating a profound silence. A bright light then entered the car, illuminating everyone, and exited the front, appearing as a deer running down a hill and leaping over a fence. The experience was shared by all four occupants, who interpreted it as a visitation from an animal spirit.

Dowsing

Authored by Joe H. Smith, this section explores the practice of dowsing. Smith defines dowsing as a reaction to a problem using an instrument, such as a pendulum or L-rod, to locate things like water or underground streams. He recounts its historical use, including its application by the Navy in World War II to locate submarines. Smith shares personal experiences of successful dowsing, including locating a lost ring for a woman by map dowsing, and assisting a rancher in Wyoming to find a ring lost seventeen years prior. He also mentions a 'near miss' in locating a lost class ring. Smith notes that dowsing is about 99 percent mental and requires humility, as ego can interfere. He discusses locating oil and gas wells and the ability to pinpoint specific zones. Smith also touches on removing noxious energy from homes and even dowsing successfully over the phone. He mentions communicating with a spirit guide named Tom, who provided a message about his mother's passing.

Science and the Fortean

Written by Don Joy, this article discusses the relationship between Forteans and science. Joy argues that Forteans are often perceived as unscientific but share the goal of examining the unknown. He explains that science collects data and builds models to represent systems, rather than discovering absolute truth. These models, like Newtonian physics, can be very useful but are not the reality itself. Joy criticizes the scientific establishment for becoming entrenched and resistant to new ideas, often due to funding pressures and the desire to avoid being perceived as 'wacky.' He suggests that Forteans, operating at the 'chaotic edge' of science, are uniquely positioned to make genuine scientific advances by being open to new experiences and challenging established theories, drawing parallels to historical figures like Columbus and the Wright brothers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unexplained, personal encounters with the paranormal, and a critical examination of conventional scientific and societal views. The Fortean Research Center positions itself as an organization dedicated to investigating and compiling information on phenomena that fall outside mainstream understanding, encouraging open-minded inquiry and the sharing of experiences. The editorial stance is one of curiosity, skepticism towards established dogma, and a belief in the importance of exploring all aspects of reality, even those considered fringe or unscientific.

This issue of The Fortean Research Center's Journal, Volume 6, Number 1, dated July 1994, focuses on various unexplained phenomena, including a reported burn circle, crop circles, cattle mutilations, and the mysterious 'Taos hum.' The publication is from The Fortean Research Center, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, and aims to explore life's mysteries.

Alfalfa Burn Circle

Lon Nansel recounts his investigation into a reported "alfalfa burn circle" near Holstein, Nebraska, which was initially reported to Ray Boeche of the Fortean Research Center. Nansel was contacted by Scott Colborn, who had received information from the landowners, Chuck and his son Dan. Dan had noticed a twelve-foot circle formed by a six-inch-wide burn strip in an alfalfa field on June 30, 1994. He described it as a perfect circle and noted that the leaves and soil appeared burned. Nansel planned to visit the site but was delayed by heavy rain until Monday, July 4. Upon arrival with his companion Sue Wallace, they found the tarped hay mentioned and a red flag placed in the field. Despite searching, they found no clear evidence of the circle, speculating that the recent rain and humid conditions had eradicated any traces. A second trip yielded nothing. Nansel notes a coincidental connection to his ongoing research on a Pawnee star map in the same area.

Corn Crop Circles

This section details two incidents of crop circles. The first occurred on August 19, 1994, when Clayton and Midge Brockway discovered a 50-foot circle in their corn field near Rome, New York. The corn was laid down in counterclockwise layers, forming a neat circle. Neighbors suggested heavy winds, but the localized nature of the damage made this explanation unlikely. Tornado expert Jeff Waldstreicher stated that a tornado would create a spiral effect, not a precise circle. The Brockways salvaged the corn, which did not appear diseased. The second incident, similar to the first, occurred in July of the previous year in southern Herkimer County, New York, where circles connected by lines were found in an oat field. Another similar event is reported from August in Garthrope, England, where a crop circle was found on the Martinsons' land at Corner Farm. The article notes speculation that these circles could be caused by whirlwinds, lay-lines, or UFOs.

Books Reviewed

Two books are reviewed in this issue:

STRANGE & UNEXPLAINED MYSTERIES OF THE 20TH CENTURY by Jenny Randles

Reviewed by Ray Boeche, this book is described as a compendium of unexplained events by a leading UK expert on UFOs and paranormal events. It covers incidents from 1901 onwards, including 'ghost rockets,' animal mutilations, time travel, spontaneous human combustion, reincarnation, spacenappings, ESP, precognition, ghostly visitors, the Bermuda Triangle, Loch Ness Monster, Bigfoot, the Amityville haunting, and the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case. The book includes 100 photographs and aims to intrigue and amaze readers with its documentation of unexplained occurrences.

UFO QUEST: In Search of the Mystery Machines by Alan Watts

Reviewed by Alan Watts, this book is described as a detailed exploration of UFOs, examining possible methods of propulsion and navigation, and the effects of UFO sightings on earthly elements like cars, planes, and radar. It aims to answer questions about the hows and whys of alien visits and includes photographs and scientific explanations for UFO behaviors and effects.

Ancient Mysteries in Iowa's Effigy Mounds

This article, originally from the Chicago Tribune on July 17, 1994, and written by Don Davenport, discusses the Effigy Mounds National Monument in northeastern Iowa. The monument preserves nearly 200 ancient mounds, including 29 effigy mounds shaped like animals such as bears and eagles. The article touches upon the Red Ochre Culture, which built mounds around 500 B.C., and the Hopwell Culture (100 B.C. to A.D. 600), known for elaborate burials. The effigy-mound builders themselves occupied the region from A.D. 600 until historic times, creating tens of thousands of mounds. The meaning of these mounds remains a mystery, with theories suggesting they were offerings or totems. The article also mentions the Paleo-Indians who roamed the area around 10,000 B.C. and the Oneota Culture that inhabited the region after the effigy-mound builders disappeared around A.D. 1400. The Visitor Center offers exhibits and a film about the mounds' history.

Residents of Taos Still Hearing Hum

This news report from the Roswell, NM Daily Record on August 4, 1994, details a University of New Mexico survey indicating that eleven percent of Taos-area residents still hear the 'Taos hum.' Jim Kelly, an ear specialist, stated that this is a large percentage. The survey, sent to 8,000 residents, received 1,440 responses, with 161 reporting they perceive the hum. Hearers describe it as sounding like an idling diesel engine, disturbing sleep, and causing pressure on the ears, nosebleeds, dizziness, and headaches. The hum has been heard for at least six months, often for over two years, and once started, it doesn't go away. The hum was first reported around Taos in 1991.

Cattle Mutilations on Rise in New Mexico

This article from the Albuquerque Journal on August 14, 1994, by Richard Benke, reports a resurgence of cattle mutilations in northern New Mexico. From April 1993 to August 1994, nine ranchers reported 27 mutilated cattle, primarily near Eagle Nest. The mutilations involve precise removal of genitals and tongues, cored anuses, and missing eyes or ears, with incisions appearing heat-cauterized. State livestock inspector Jerry Valerio rules out natural predators, stating that predators wouldn't go near the carcasses. While not directly blaming UFOs, Valerio expresses a desire to find a clue. The article mentions past reports of deputy sheriffs witnessing birds carving wounds, but Valerio insists predators avoid these carcasses. Rancher Eli Hronich has suffered 11 such mutilations. The article notes other mutilations in the Jemez Mountains, Questa, and El Prado. Rancher Kay Moore believes the mutilations are "definitely human" but questions the motivation, suggesting it's a sophisticated deal possibly involving money and equipment, ruling out cultists. The possibility of UFO involvement is not dismissed.

The Fortean Research Center Information

This section provides information about membership in The Fortean Research Center. Benefits include four issues of the Journal, an occasional newsletter, and updates on activities. Members also support the radio program "Exploring Unexplained Phenomena" and receive discounts on the annual conference. The center has a library of books, magazines, and audio/video tapes. Information on starting a membership, including costs for U.S. and Canadian members, is provided. Contact information for the center and a list of other organizations investigating the unexplained are also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, including physical evidence like burn circles and crop formations, as well as more elusive events like cattle mutilations and mysterious sounds. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting reported incidents and expert opinions without necessarily offering definitive conclusions. The Fortean Research Center positions itself as a facilitator of such investigations, encouraging questions and the exploration of mysteries. There is a consistent emphasis on documentation, research, and the sharing of information among interested individuals and organizations.