MUFON Michigan Newsletter - 1998 05 - Vol 4 No 3

Magazine Overview

The Michigan MUFON Newsletter, Volume IV, Issue 3, dated May 1, 1998, is published by the Michigan Mutual UFO Network. This issue focuses on state news, upcoming meetings, and in-depth articles on UFO research and related topics.

State News

Words from the State Director

Rich McVannel, State Director, expresses pleasure with the turnout at the March membership meeting, noting that twenty-two people attended the new Field Investigator Training led by Dan Wright. He also reports that 66 people attended the afternoon membership meeting and luncheon at Weber's Inn, which successfully accommodated the unexpected increase in attendees. Dr. Eddie Bullard is highlighted for giving an outstanding presentation that held the audience's complete attention. McVannel also thanks Dan Wright for transporting Dr. Bullard and Len Keeney for arranging reservations and attending to the speaker's needs.

New State Officers are welcomed: Robert Wagel as Assistant State Director, Administration, and State Section Director for Cass, Berrien, and Van Buren Counties. David E. Caywood is introduced as the new Newsletter Editor and Public Relations Director, bringing extensive experience in communications and computer science.

May Meeting in Clare, Michigan

The general Michigan MUFON Members Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 1998, at the Doherty Hotel in Clare, Michigan. The contact person is Rich McVannel, and RSVPs are requested by Wednesday, May 14, 1998. The Luncheon Buffet begins at 12:30 PM. The featured guest speaker is John Shepherd, a researcher of ET communication and director of Project S.T.R.A.T. An interview with John Shepherd is featured on page 6.

Summary of Minutes for State Officers State Section Directors

Former Business

The State Officers/State Section Directors Meeting on March 22, 1998, at Weber's Inn, Ann Arbor, accepted minutes from the previous meeting. Assistant state director and treasurer, Jerry Kulka, reported that the finances from the 1997 International MUFON Symposium in Grand Rapids have been finalized and all records closed. Two State Officer positions were approved: Robert Wagel as Assistant State Director, Administration, and David E. Caywood as Newsletter Editor and Public Relations Director. Gary Golem reported that the symposium video is complete and approved for sale to members. Discussion was held regarding the obsolete MIMUFON website; Chris Trumble, the Webmaster, could not be located, and David Caywood is working on a new website. MIMUFON has purchased equipment for an information center, including a copy machine, with funds donated by members.

New Business

The next meeting is May 17, 1998, at 12:30 PM at the Doherty Hotel, Clare, Michigan. Contact numbers for reservations are provided. The cost for the day is $12.50 including lunch, or $5.00 for the afternoon meeting and speaker. The September 20, 1998, meeting is scheduled for Grand Rapids, Michigan. David Caywood was congratulated for producing his first newsletter, and information on contacting him or contributing content is available. Correspondence for the MIMUFON Newsletter should be sent to the P.O. Box or email addresses. Extra copies can be purchased for $2.00. David Caywood announced an opportunity for MIMUFON to participate in an art show at the Cranbrook Institute later in 1998, which the group approved.

Meeting Schedule and Locations for 1998

A table lists upcoming meetings: March 22nd in Ann Arbor (Coordinator: Len Keeney), May 17th in Clare (Coordinator: Rich McVannel), September 20th in Grand Rapids (Coordinator: Robert Wagel), and November 8th in Flint (Coordinator: Frank Bertrand).

Yvonne Smith Speaks Her Feelings About the Unfair Dealings By UPN And "Lake County Alien Abduction"

Yvonne Smith of CERO appeared on the UPN television show "Alien Abduction, Incident In Lake County" on January 20, 1998. She apologizes for the delay in responding due to life events. Smith clarifies that when she agreed to be interviewed as an "abduction expert" for Dick Clark Productions, she answered questions based on her own caseload and did not comment on the "McPhearson abduction" video because she had not seen it prior to the show's airing. She notes that the researcher from Dick Clark Productions had indicated the video might be a "fake." Smith emphasizes that sensationalism sells and that Dick Clark Productions aimed for ratings. She asserts that she did her job as an "abduction expert" and will continue to advocate for those who have had abduction experiences, aiming to bring the subject out of the closet. She states she does not regret appearing on the show and will continue fighting for abductees.

Michigan MUFON Interviews John Shepherd, Director of: PROJECT S.T.R.A.T.

Project S.T.R.A.T. (Special Telemetry Research and Tracking) was established in Spring 1972 near Elk Rapids, Michigan, becoming fully operational by Summer 1973. The project explores mysteries of the cosmos using Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) radio signals. John Shepherd began investigating a significant UFO flap in Michigan in Fall 1973, detecting electromagnetic signals from UFOs in the 400-800 hertz range. He worked with the Sheriff's Department to track these objects.

Shepherd's work has expanded over 25 years, involving electronics, contact with non-terrestrial beings, and Ufology. Project S.T.R.A.T. now occupies over 4,000 square feet of his home, including a two-story accelerator and extensive telemetry equipment. He transmits music and tonal patterns into space, believing that beings with a spirit will gravitate towards music as it "goes right to the soul." He plans to focus more on scientific research in the future. Shepherd describes his motivation as a lifelong desire to seek answers and a strong connection with electrical energy. He is described as an artist, inventor, and scientist. His work has been featured on various TV shows and in publications.

Michigan MUFON Visits Honor Class at Delta College

On Friday, March 19th, David Caywood and the author visited a class of honor students at Delta College to discuss UFO's, Alien Abduction, and their impact on society. The class, part of a Humanities curriculum, required reading included Whitley Streiber's "Communion" and David Jacobs' "The Threat." The students asked questions about the nature of aliens and how humanity could protect itself. The author and Caywood provided a handout with biographies and UFO-related definitions. One student found hearing from experiencers "much more interesting than reading words out of a book." The visit concluded with an assurance that while individuals may not have all the answers, collective effort is needed to understand the alien presence.

Book Review

"At the Threshold; UFO's, Science and the New Age" by Charles F. Emmons is reviewed by Wilfred Kincaid of Michigan MUFON. Kincaid recommends the book, written by a sociology professor, for its comprehensive summary of UFO phenomena, covering various viewpoints without bias. The review highlights Emmons' discussion on the tension between "nuts-and-bolts" and "New Age" approaches in ufology and his exploration of whether the scientific quest for understanding the UFO phenomenon is nearing completion. Kincaid praises Emmons' balanced attitude and encourages wider sharing of such perspectives.

Mexican UFO Invasion: Twilight of the Gods

This article by Rob Irving discusses a remarkable stream of UFO footage emerging from Mexico, particularly related to a total solar eclipse on July 11, 1991, in Mexico City. The event is linked to ancient Mayan prophecies and potentially catastrophic activity at Mount Popocatépetl. The article introduces videos produced by Lee and Brit Elders and investigative journalist Jaime Maussan, who hosted a show similar to "60 Minutes." The mass sighting during the solar convergence attracted numerous witnesses and camcorders. Maussan's televised account led to an influx of tapes showing hovering objects. The commentary progresses from describing the objects as "craft" and "spaceships" to "gods in silvery chariots." The article mentions Maussan's previous work with the Elders' documentary on Swiss contactee Eduard 'Billy' Meier.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing research and investigation into UFO phenomena by Michigan MUFON members and affiliated organizations. There is a strong emphasis on sharing information through meetings, newsletters, and interviews with researchers. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging discussion and the pursuit of answers regarding UFOs and related experiences, while also acknowledging the sensationalism often surrounding the topic. The newsletter aims to inform, engage, and unite members in their shared interest.

This issue of the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, dated approximately 1998, features a range of content related to UFO research, including a detailed report on a Mexican UFO sighting, discussions on the significance of abductions, and extensive information on MUFON's library and upcoming events.

Mexican UFO Footage and Analysis

The issue begins with a continuation of a report (from page 10) detailing a briefing on ancient prophecies and UFO sightings. Lee & Brit are shown taking notes, with a discussion about the duration and movement of a UFO. Maussan confirms it's the same ship and that it appears to be hovering. A Mexico City resident, Ms. Hernandez, reported taping a UFO, described as a metallic disc-shaped craft, possibly rotating and quicksilver in appearance. Comparative analysis suggests identical objects were seen on July 11 across various locations, raising questions about 'hyperleaping' capabilities. The article notes that these eclipse-related sightings are used as a benchmark for subsequent observations, distinguishing them from conventional aircraft or other phenomena. Field energy propulsion specialist H. David Froning offers his opinion, suggesting the craft's movement indicates a 'field propulsion system' and a 'pulsation formation' possibly caused by a magnetic device disturbing the surrounding space. Lee Elders points out a single frame showing a white dot, identified as another unknown.

Editor's Column: 'It's obvious... Isn't it?'

David E. Caywood, the editor, expresses his frustration with ufologists who still refuse to acknowledge the reality of abductions. He argues that abductions and/or contact are the primary reasons for UFO presence and study, likening the exclusion of this data to looking at only one tree and assuming it represents the entire forest. He contrasts this with the idea that UFOs are here for mundane reasons, dismissing notions of them being interested in nightlife, cars, or pizza. Caywood emphasizes the need to consider all data, including that from abductees, to understand the 'obvious' purpose of these visits.

Michigan MUFON Library

Several pages are dedicated to the Michigan MUFON Library. Page 13 lists missing items from the library, including titles like 'Alien Contact,' 'The Bible & Flying Saucers,' and 'The UFO Abductors,' along with the last known borrower and date checked out. Page 14 and 15 detail recent book donations from Mary Heaney, Karin McDermott, and Ron Westrum, listing numerous titles such as 'A History of UFO Crashes,' 'Gods From Outer Space,' and 'The Roswell Incident.' The library is seeking new or used book donations and thanks Kathy Yates, the librarian, for her efforts.

1998 International MUFON Symposium

Pages 16 and 17 announce the 1998 International MUFON Symposium, hosted by Colorado MUFON in Denver from June 25-28, 1998. The theme is 'Conquering The Great Divide' Between Science and Ufology.' Information is provided on contacting COMUFON, accommodation at the Renaissance Denver Hotel, and a list of airlines serving Denver. The newsletter encourages early planning for the event.

Top UFO Websites Review

Pages 17 and 18 feature reviews of top UFO websites. 'The UFO Reporter' (www.goecities.com/Area51/Corridor/3294/) is highly recommended for its extensive UFO accounts, documentation, and artwork, earning 5 out of 5 stars. 'Project S.T.R.A.T.' (www.nwcis.com/strat/), focusing on building a galactic communication center, is rated 4 out of 5 stars. 'CNI News' (www.cninews.com) is praised for its up-to-the-minute information on UFO events and related subjects, also receiving 5 out of 5 stars. The Colorado MUFON website (www.netlcomm.com/~COMUFON/) is described as one of the best MUFON sites, essential for planning attendance at the symposium, and rated 5 out of 5 stars. A rating system is provided for these reviews.

Michigan MUFON General Meeting

Page 19 announces a Michigan MUFON General Meeting at the Dougherty Hotel in Clare, MI, on Sunday, May 17, 1998. Field Investigators training is postponed until September. The State Section Directors'/State Officers' Meeting is scheduled for 11:00 AM, followed by a Luncheon Buffet with Guest Speaker John Shepherd at 12:30 PM. Directions to the Dougherty Hotel are provided for attendees coming from Lansing and Detroit/Metro.

Contact Us and Subscription Information

Page 20 provides contact information for Michigan MUFON, including a P.O. Box in Eastport, Michigan, a telephone number, and a website address. A notice clarifies that articles reflect the personal views of the authors and not necessarily official MUFON views. The page includes a form for 1998 State Dues and Newsletter Subscription, priced at $15.00, and asks about membership in the Mutual UFO Network and preference for email delivery of the newsletter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing analysis of UFO sightings and footage, the importance of considering abduction phenomena in UFO research, the promotion of MUFON's resources (library and website), and the organization of MUFON events like the annual symposium and local meetings. The editorial stance, particularly from David E. Caywood, is strongly in favor of comprehensive UFO research that includes all aspects, especially abductions, and emphasizes the need for open-mindedness and thorough investigation.

This document is not a magazine issue but rather a piece of correspondence, likely a letter, between two organizations involved in UFO research. The primary entities identified are Michigan MUFON and CUFON.

Correspondence Details

The letterhead clearly displays the address for Michigan MUFON: P.O. Box 363, Eastport, MI 49627-0363. The recipient is identified as Larry Fenwick, associated with CUFON. The CUFON address provided is P.O. Box 77547, Downview, Ontario, Canada, M3H-6A6. A postal marking on what appears to be an envelope indicates the date 'APR 30 1990' and 'USA'. The postage stamp features a design with two swans and the value '55'.

Organizations Involved

• Michigan MUFON: A state chapter of the Mutual UFO Network, a civilian organization that investigates UFO sightings.
• CUFON: An organization that appears to be related to UFO research, with Larry Fenwick listed as a contact.

Key Individuals and Locations

• Larry Fenwick: The recipient of the correspondence, affiliated with CUFON.
• Eastport, MI, USA: The location from which Michigan MUFON operates.
• Downview, Ontario, Canada: The location of CUFON's mailing address.

Themes and Tags

The primary themes revolve around UFO research and inter-organizational communication within this field. Relevant tags include MUFON, CUFON, UFO, Canada, Michigan, and correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

As this is a piece of correspondence and not a magazine issue, there is no editorial stance or recurring themes in the traditional sense. The document serves as a record of communication between two UFO research organizations in the early 1990s.