MUFON Michigan Newsletter - 1998 11 - Vol 4 No 5

Magazine Overview

Title: Michigan MUFON Newsletter
Issue: Volume 4, Issue 5
Date: November 1, 1998
Publisher: MICHIGAN MUTUAL UFO NETWORK
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, dated November 1, 1998, focuses on the cultural aspects of UFO belief and MUFON's ongoing efforts to investigate the phenomenon. The cover prominently features an announcement for an "Exclusive Interview With Jodi Dean," author of "Aliens in America, Conspiracy Cultures from Outerspace to Cyberspace."

Table of Contents

The newsletter includes a comprehensive table of contents, listing articles such as "Words from the State Director," "Down to Earth About Aliens," "Tsunami by Landi Mellas," "Jodi Dean on Aliens in America," and "The Abduction of Spirituality by David E. Caywood."

Words from the State Director

State Director Richard McVannel reflects on the recent MUFON meeting in Grand Rapids, noting the success of Ted Philips' presentation on "Trace Landings" but lamenting the low attendance. He poses a question to the members: "What do you, as members, want at your membership meetings?" He encourages feedback via letter, phone, or email to improve future meetings. McVannel also announces the increase in membership to 800 dues-paying members and discusses the cost of speakers and printing, hinting at a potential dues increase in the future. He reminds members to ensure their dues are paid to receive the newsletter. The next meeting is scheduled for November 8, 1998, in Flint at Walli's Restaurant, featuring a brunch and guest speaker Beverly Trout.

November Meeting in Flint

The 6th annual meeting of the Michigan Mutual UFO Network is detailed, taking place in Flint on November 8, 1998. The schedule includes Field Investigators Training, a brunch, and a guest speaker, Beverly Trout. Mr. Frank Bertrand is the contact for RSVPs by November 4, 1998. Beverly Trout, Iowa State Director for MUFON, is highlighted as the guest speaker, focusing on her work with UFO sightings, abductions, crop formations, and landing traces. Her personal case of possible alien interaction in 1993 is also mentioned.

Exclusive Interview With Jodi Dean

An excerpt from the cover introduces an interview with Jodi Dean, author of "Aliens in America, Conspiracy Cultures from Outerspace to Cyberspace." The interview, conducted by David E. Caywood, explores Dean's motivations for writing the book, her academic background in political, feminist, and cultural theory, and her views on "consensus reality" in America. Dean argues that mainstream science often dismisses ufological discourse by upholding criteria for scientific rationality that exclude such topics. She criticizes the tendency for academic colleagues to try and force her into taking a definitive stance on belief in abductions. The book itself is described as a provocative and sophisticated analysis of public culture and popular concerns, examining how UFO-logists and their pop-culture counterparts tap into fundamental phobias and paranoia.

Down-to-Earth About Aliens

This article, originally from The Los Angeles Times and written by Joel P. Engardio, profiles the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) as a group of everyday people and professionals dedicated to investigating UFOs. It highlights various members, including a real estate agent who claims to be an abduction survivor, an airline pilot who witnessed an unidentified aircraft, and podiatrist Roger K. Leir, who claims to have surgically removed alien implants. The article emphasizes MUFON's founder Walt Andrus's intention to maintain a professional image and distance the group from the more sensationalistic aspects of UFO culture. Andrus stresses the importance of scientific investigation and debunks a significant portion of reports as misidentifications. The article also notes a recent study by Stanford, Cornell, and Princeton universities that suggested some UFO sightings warrant serious scientific study.

MUFON Is Born

This section details the origins of MUFON in 1969, founded by Walt Andrus and others after the U.S. Air Force stopped officially investigating UFOs. The founders aimed to create a more credible investigative body, moving away from the more outlandish aspects of UFO culture observed at conventions. Andrus has led the organization for 30 years, operating from the national headquarters in Seguin, Texas, and managing a toll-free hotline and a database of thousands of cases.

The Aliens and the Scalpel

This article focuses on Roger K. Leir, a podiatrist who gained attention for surgically removing alleged alien implants from patients. Leir's interest in UFOs began in childhood after hearing about the Roswell incident. He describes his initial apprehension about publicizing his work due to potential professional repercussions. The article details his collaboration with other medical professionals and the analysis of the extracted objects, which were identified as potentially meteorite material by New Mexico Tech, though Leir's interpretation is debated. Leir's work is presented as part of a broader trend of UFO topics entering mainstream media.

Going Mainstream

This section discusses how UFO topics are becoming more mainstream, influenced by popular culture like "The X-Files" and "Men in Black." Roger K. Leir notes that skepticism towards UFO sightings is decreasing, with debunkers now more likely to be ridiculed. The article also touches on the growth of MUFON chapters, with new members like Brian Noble and Jeannie Casse attending meetings. The article highlights the diverse backgrounds of MUFON members, including those who are skeptical but open-minded, and those who are cautious about sharing their interest due to societal acceptance.

The Future of MUFON

Walt Andrus expresses his hope that MUFON will eventually become obsolete if the UFO phenomenon can be resolved. He sees the increasing public discussion of UFOs as a positive step towards finding answers. The article also mentions the archives of the Los Angeles Times as a resource for similar stories.

Tsunami

Written by Landi Mellas, this article presents a personal vision of a tsunami as a metaphor for consciousness expansion and a shift from 3rd to 4th dimensional reality. Mellas interprets the vision as a gift that will help humanity evolve. She describes three waves, with the first hitting on August 24th of the current year, characterized by intense light energy. She suggests that those who resist this shift will experience pain and confusion, while those who embrace it will transition more smoothly. Mellas advises readers to "go within the ocean of consciousness and learn to surf" and anticipates a second wave around the end of 1998.

Aliens in America

This section features an excerpt from Jodi Dean's book, "Aliens in America, Conspiracy Cultures from Outerspace to Cyberspace." The excerpt discusses how aliens have become a pervasive element in American culture, appearing in mainstream media and consumer products. Dean argues that the complexity of modern life creates a situation where political choices are difficult, leading to paranoia as a sensible response when truth is elusive. The article highlights Dean's academic perspective, noting her background in political, feminist, and cultural theory. She discusses how UFO-logists and their pop-culture counterparts engage with societal phobias and skepticism. Dean also addresses criticisms from academic colleagues who are unsettled by her unwillingness to definitively categorize herself as a believer or non-believer in abductions, suggesting they seek to place her within their own criteria for scientific rationality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the scientific investigation of UFO phenomena through MUFON. There is a strong emphasis on collecting data, analyzing sightings, and seeking credible evidence. The publication also explores the cultural and psychological impact of UFO beliefs, as seen in the interview with Jodi Dean and the article on "Tsunami." The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging member participation and aiming to educate the public while maintaining a professional and scientific approach to the subject matter. The newsletter also touches upon the evolving societal acceptance of UFO topics and the challenges of investigating anomalous phenomena.

This document is the November 1998 issue of the Michigan MUFON newsletter, a publication for the Mutual UFO Network and its members. It covers upcoming events, personnel changes, and features an in-depth editorial on the intersection of spirituality and ufology.

Announcements

Field Investigators Training

A training session titled "Field Investigators Training" is announced as "THIS ONE SHOULD NOT MISSED!". This workshop is a follow-up to a lecture by Ted Phillips. Chief Investigator Dan Wright will present on physical evidence cases on November 8th at Walli's in Flint, Michigan. The presentation will cover identifying false and genuine traces, photographing scenes, plotting ground marks, gathering experimental and control samples, and proper evidence storage. The workshop is scheduled to begin promptly at 9:00 AM, and serious investigators are encouraged to attend to learn how to handle critical cases.

Newsletter Editor and Assistant Editor Due to Resign

David E. Caywood, Newsletter Editor-in-Chief and Public Relations Director for Michigan MUFON, is resigning due to commitments from his career and two books he is writing and publishing. Landi Mellas, Assistant Editor, will also be resigning. The State Director expresses regret but understands the need for them to pursue personal goals. Both have done an outstanding job promoting Michigan MUFON and creating a new newsletter format. Their resignations are effective January 1, 1999, but they have promised to assist in the transition to new personnel. They plan to remain members of Michigan MUFON.

Newsletter Editor Wanted

Michigan MUFON is seeking a new Newsletter Editor and/or Assistant Editor. Interested individuals are asked to contact Richard McVannel at (616)582-7097 or by mail to P.O. Box 363, Eastport, Michigan 49627-0363, listing their interests and qualifications. Recommendations for individuals outside MIMUFON are also welcomed.

1999 MIMUFON Dues Reminder

A reminder is issued for the 1999 dues, encouraging members to pre-pay for the last year of the century. More information is available on the "CONTACT US" page.

From the Editors Desk

The Abduction of Spirituality

By David E. Caywood

This editorial, written by David E. Caywood, argues that spirituality is central, not adjunct, to solving UFO/abduction phenomena and other mysteries of our time. Caywood states that he has spoken "ufological blasphemy" by asserting this view. He differentiates spirituality from religion, defining spirituality as what one does with their life, while religion is a more structured, weekly practice. He posits that mainstream science and religion are two sides of the same wall, both seeking to provide answers, but that spirituality encourages individuals to find their own answers through self-discovery and remembrance.

Caywood addresses the taboo surrounding the combination of spirituality, Ufology, and science, attributing it to fear – specifically, the fear of blurring the lines between religion and science. He believes that taboos are often put in place to hide a truth. He asserts that fear, when consciously given into, provides the very weapons for one to be threatened. He encourages remembering one's spirit, which he states is a part of everyone, and that "All" is one.

He clarifies that this is not "new age" thinking but ancient knowledge. He argues that fearing one's spirit means fearing oneself as a whole being (Mind, Body, and Spirit). The separation of consciousness into science and spirituality is seen as detrimental to ufological/abduction research, leading to a sense of insanity and disconnection from nature, each other, and the grand scheme of things. He questions why humanity is in a mess of confusion and conflict if current models of the universe have been effective.

Caywood emphasizes that our thoughts and words create reality. He believes that the answers to UFO/abduction mysteries lie within, and that ignoring spirituality leads to the "abduction of spirituality from our investigations and lives at the peril of our own confoundment."

He concludes by stating that all beings exist in duality (physical and metaphysical), a concept supported by Quantum Physics and psychology. He asserts that mind, body, and spirit form one whole being, and that life exists on many levels. He believes that spirituality is central to understanding why UFO/abduction experiences happen.

Michigan MUFON General Meeting

Details are provided for a Michigan MUFON General Meeting to be held at Walli's Restaurant in Flint, Michigan. The contact person is Frank Bertrand at (810) 655-4749. The schedule of events for Sunday, November 8, 1998, includes:

• 9:00 AM: Field Investigators Training Course 3 with Chief Investigator, Dan Wright.
• 11:30 AM: Brunch at Walli's.
• 1:00 PM: General Meeting with Guest Speaker Beverly Trout.
• State Directors Meeting will be held promptly after the Guest Speaker and General Session.

Information is also provided for Walli's Restaurant, including its address (G146 West Pierson Road, Flint Michigan) and phone number (810) 789-9167. Directions are given, noting the intersection with Dolan Drive and Exit 122 off Hwy. 75. A buffet is available for $12 and a lecture for $6.

Attendees are asked to leave a message with the Contact Person regarding their attendance for the brunch, including their contact phone number and the number of persons attending.

Contact Us

This section provides contact information for Michigan MUFON for dues, subscriptions, and general correspondence. The mailing address is P.O. Box 363, Eastport, Michigan 49627-0363. The telephone number is (616) 582-7097, and the email address is [email protected]. The website is http://www.msu.edu/user/trumbull/mufon.html.

NOTICE

The Michigan MUFON Newsletter is issued for the Mutual UFO Network and Members of Michigan MUFON. Unless specified, articles and reviews are by David E. Caywood and reflect his personal views and research, not necessarily the official views of the Mutual UFO Network or its membership. Articles may be reprinted in other newsletters with credit given to this newsletter. A copy of the newsletter should be sent to the source if reprinted.

MICHIGAN MUFON 1999, 2000 STATE DUES and NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION FORM

A form is provided for 1999/2000 calendar year memberships or subscriberships. The cost is $15.00 via check or money order to Michigan MUFON. The form requests Name, Address, City, State/Province, Zip Code, Email/Website, and Phone number. It also asks if the applicant is a member of the Mutual UFO Network, Inc. and if they would like to receive the newsletter via email.

Back Page

The back page features a recycling message: "Please Recycle, Reuse, Renew WE ALL ShareTtheSsame Planet... (and Universe too!". It also includes the Michigan MUFON address and a mailing label for Larry Fenwick in Downsview, Ontario, Canada, with a postmark dated October 38.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the practical aspects of UFO investigation (training in evidence handling), organizational matters (editor resignations, seeking new staff, dues reminders, general meetings), and the philosophical integration of spirituality with the study of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly from David E. Caywood, is that spirituality is a crucial, often overlooked, component in understanding UFOs and abductions, and that societal taboos and fear prevent a more complete exploration of these topics. The newsletter aims to provide practical training and foster a community for those interested in these subjects.