MUFON Michigan Newsletter - 2008 05

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, dated May 2008, is primarily focused on UFO-related topics, including historical investigations, recent sightings, and upcoming events. The cover features a "Thank You Jean!" message to Jean Waskiewicz, the retiring MIMUFON webmaster, and highlights the State Director's message.

Words From the State Director

The State Director expresses gratitude to Jean Waskiewicz for her years of service as MIMUFON webmaster, noting that she will continue as Electronic Data Manager. He also announces his intention to send a letter to all State Section Directors (SSDs) to confirm their continued roles, with counties potentially being reassigned if there is no response.

Inside this issue:

The table of contents lists several articles, including "THE CIA BREAKS ITS SILENCE ON UFOS," "39th. Annual International UFO Symposium," "Motherships are Back," "Illinois MUFON Symposium: Bill Murphy's Column," and "LAW OFFICER TRACKED TEXAS UFO SPEED WITH RADAR DEVICE."

MUFON 2008 Annual UFO Symposium

Details are provided for the MUFON 2008 Annual UFO Symposium to be held in San Jose, California, from July 24-27, 2008. It lists international speakers such as Nick Pope, Dr. Anthony Choy, and General Wilfried De Brouwer, as well as other speakers like Brian Smith and Dr. Richard Haines. Hotel reservations are to be made separately.

Notice

A notice clarifies that the Michigan MUFON Newsletter is issued for the Mutual UFO Network and its members, and that articles do not necessarily reflect the official views of MUFON or its general membership. Articles may be reprinted with credit.

Michigan MUFON News and Events

The newsletter mentions an increase in sighting reports and an exciting time for UFO investigation. It notes that Michigan MUFON has been contacted by the History Channel's "UFO Hunters" program regarding the 1994 Holland, Michigan wave of sightings. Future events include a public presentation in September and a vendors table at the Michigan Paranormal Conference in October, where the State Director will present on 'UFOs over Michigan.' The upcoming MUFON International UFO Symposium in San Jose, California, is also promoted.

The next MIMUFON meeting is scheduled for Sunday, May 4, at Walli's East, featuring a Field Investigator's training session led by Gary Golem and a special afternoon presentation by John Shepard, head of Project STRAT, discussing anomaly detection technology and the drone phenomenon.

Subscribers are reminded that they can opt for a printable electronic newsletter via email.

THE CIA BREAKS ITS SILENCE ON UFOS (By Don Berliner)

This article critically examines a CIA report that attempted to explain UFO sightings as misidentifications of U.S. Air Force spy planes like the U-2 and SR-71. The author argues that the CIA's explanation is flawed, citing the planes' operational limitations, shapes, and speeds, which do not match witness descriptions of UFOs. The article points out that the CIA's claims about the number of reports explained as atmospheric phenomena are also inaccurate. It highlights specific CIA reports, such as one from Herbert Scoville Jr. detailing a tracked object at high altitude and speed with radar jamming, and another from Donald Chamberlain describing a fighter pilot's encounter with a high-performance delta-shaped object.

Puzzling CIA Reports of UFOs

This section details specific UFO reports that the CIA's 'spy plane' explanation fails to address. One report from September 21, 1957, describes an object tracked by radar moving at 50,000 feet and 2,000 kts, causing radar jamming. Another from 1964 involves a Navy fighter pilot reporting a delta-shaped object with speeds exceeding Mach 3 (2,000 mph) and radar tracks over 3500 kts (4,000 mph).

BROOKINGS INSTITUTION REPORT

This section references a December 15, 1960, New York Times article about a Brookings Institution report commissioned by NASA. The report warned that the discovery of extraterrestrial life could cause Earth's civilization to collapse or lead to significant changes. It recommended further study of space activities and potential contact scenarios, suggesting that contact might occur through radio communications within twenty years.

39th Annual International UFO Symposium

This section provides a detailed list of speakers and their topics for the upcoming symposium in San Jose, California. Speakers include John Greenewald (Emcee), Nick Pope, George Knapp, Cpt. Rodrigo Garrido, Leslie Kean, Farah Yarduzo, Dr. Richard Haines, Don Ledger, Jeronimo Flores, Victor Camacho, Dr. Anthony Choy, General Wilfried De Brouwer, Larry Lemke, and Ted Roe. Information on registration and contact numbers is provided.

WE ARE NOT ALONE:

This section promotes David Twichell's radio talk show, "We Are Not Alone," on WHFR, featuring guests like Peter Robbins and Ted Phillips. Details on how to tune in and access archived shows are given.

Motherships are Back (By George Filer)

This article discusses a perceived increase in UFO sighting reports, particularly those involving "Motherships." It cites a January 2008 sighting in Texas of a mile-long, half-mile-wide object. The author compares the size of these craft to historical airships like the Hindenburg and modern aircraft like the Boeing 747, noting that eyewitnesses, including pilots, report seeing objects ten times larger than 747s. The article suggests that advanced alien civilizations might utilize nanotechnology for smaller, numerous exploratory craft. It posits that Earth's resources make it an attractive destination for alien visitors, possibly for medical reasons or reproduction. The author dismisses misidentifications and argues for the reality of these sightings, referencing ancient cave drawings as potential evidence of long-term alien presence.

Aime' Michel's Research

This section discusses the research of Aime' Michel, who tracked straight-line UFO sightings in France and discovered that many occurred along specific trajectories, often near caverns. Michel identified a large, illuminated, cigar-shaped Mothership near Dijon and Poncey in 1954, with numerous sightings reported along straight lines. He also noted sightings in England, France, and Italy that formed a 700-mile great-circle route, suggesting a logical surveillance pattern. The article mentions that these Motherships were often seen launching smaller discs and hovering over nuclear military facilities.

An account is given of two airline pilots seeing a mile-wide object off the coast of Alderney in April 2007, which was also detected by radar.

General L.M. Chassin is quoted from the preface of Aime' Michel's book, stating that UFOs are products of advanced technology and are maneuvering in Europe for unknown purposes.

Illinois MUFON Symposium (Bill Murphy's Column)

This column reviews a highly successful symposium held in Tinley Park, Illinois, on March 29, hosted by Illinois MUFON and CUFOS. The event featured local speakers and a panel discussion, with a low registration fee. The author praises the Illinois MUFON core group and notes they will host the 2009 MUFON International Symposium at the same location. The article mentions that more people attended than expected, leading to speakers giving multiple presentations. Speakers included Vic Connor, Dr. Mark Rodeghier (discussing the O'Hare sighting), Darryl Barker, and Sam Maranto (presenting on mass sightings in Illinois). Donald Schmitt's presentation on "Witness to Roswell" is highlighted as highly anticipated, focusing on government efforts to silence witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes MUFON's mission of scientific data collection and analysis of UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on investigating and documenting UFO sightings, with articles often challenging official explanations and government secrecy. The publication also serves to inform members about upcoming events, meetings, and the activities of various MUFON chapters and related organizations. The overall stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging public participation and the sharing of information.

This issue of the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, dated May 2008, provides a comprehensive look at UFO-related activities, research, and events within Michigan and beyond. It features reports on sightings, investigations, organizational updates, and upcoming events, reflecting the ongoing interest and efforts in the field of UFOlogy.

Featured Articles and Reports

Mr. Schmitt's Presentation and Roswell

The newsletter opens with a discussion of Mr. Schmitt's presentation, which focused on the Roswell incident. Schmitt, described as a willing discussant with strong convictions, finds the variety of Roswell accounts fascinating, though he admits he hasn't found all the answers. A particularly riveting point was his recounting of a soldier's story about hearing men sobbing and praying the Rosary on the night after the recovery of the object from the New Mexico desert. Items related to Roswell were available from Illinois MUFON and CUFOS.

MUFON Events and Symposia

Linda and Bill Murphy announce their plans to attend the June 22nd mini-Symposium with Peter Davenport and Richard Dolan, and recommend it, along with the 2009 International Symposium, noting its proximity to Michigan.

Herb Prouty Retirement

A short thank-you is extended to Herbert J. Prouty, J.D., upon his retirement as Director of Legal Affairs for MUFON. The article highlights his gracious legal expertise in ensuring MUFON operated legally and ethically, and his role in defusing potentially harmful situations. The authors affirm the praise written by the International MUFON and express pride in calling him a friend.

MIMUFON State Meetings and John Tenney

John Tenney, an independent paranormal investigator and lecturer, gave a presentation at the March State Meeting. Tenney discussed the Kinross case, where an F-89 'Scorpion' supposedly collided with an unidentified flying object, and shared new information. He emphasized that real research involves original investigation rather than repackaging the work of others, a common issue that leads to confusion and an amateurish perception of the field. Information on Tenney's upcoming appearances is available at www.weirdlectures.com.

Field Investigator Training

The newsletter encourages readers to become MUFON Field Investigators as a way to contribute to the field by collecting data on sightings. The major step involves passing an open-book test designed to assess knowledge for gathering information, representing MUFON, and treating witnesses respectfully. Linda and Bill Murphy are taking training presented by Gary Golem to prepare for this test. They recall investigating cases as trainees in the mid-1990s and emphasize the rewarding nature of investigations.

Alpha Centauri Planets

An article adapted from Science Daily reports on a study by University of California, Santa Cruz, astronomers suggesting that a rocky planet similar to Earth may be orbiting Alpha Centauri B. Computer simulations indicate that terrestrial planets likely formed in the habitable zone. Researchers believe such planets could be detected using existing techniques, like the Doppler method, with a dedicated telescope over five years of observation.

Law Officer Tracks Texas UFO

Steve Hammons of the UFO Digest reports on a Stephenville, Texas, law enforcement officer who used his police radar device on January 8, 2008, to measure the speed of a huge unidentified object. The object was tracked at 27 miles per hour and accelerating slowly. The report notes that multiple officers captured images of similar objects on their patrol car dash cams. The anonymous officer described the craft as stealthy, capable of changing colors, and possibly larger than initially estimated, with a flat octagonal shape and various light configurations.

News Media, Texas and Arizona Incidents

This section connects the Stephenville case to other significant UFO reports, including the 'Phoenix Lights' incident of March 13, 1997. It discusses how the Stephenville case has been evaluated as the most significant public UFO case since Phoenix Lights. Witnesses and officers considered if the craft was advanced US technology or extraterrestrial. The anonymous officer noted that if it were military, it was a significant security lapse.

Michigan MUFON State Section Directors Meeting Minutes

Minutes from the March 16, 2008, meeting in Flint, Michigan, are provided. Key discussions included MUFON International Director James Carrion being the primary contact for the History Channel's 'UFO Hunters' regarding the 1994 Holland, Michigan sightings. Patty suggested the Kinross incident might also be of interest. Plans for a Psychic Fair on October 18-19, 2008, and the September state meeting were discussed. A general discussion focused on the role of State Section Directors and the importance of their commitment to investigating reports. Wendy Smith reported attendance of 30 people.

Monthly Statistical MUFON Report - March 2008

In March 2008, MUFON received 333 sightings globally, with 305 in the US and 12 in Michigan. Notably, 22 Landings, Hovering, or Takeoffs and 23 Entities were reported worldwide. Readers are directed to www.mufon.com for detailed case files.

Dr. J. Allen Hynek Quote

A quote from Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a former consultant to Project Blue Book, reflects his transformation from a 'debunker' to a believer in the UFO phenomenon, stating, "My transformation was gradual but by the late sixties it was complete. Today I would not spend one further moment on the subject of UFOs if I didn't seriously feel that the UFO phenomenon is real and that efforts to investigate and understand it, and eventually to solve it, could have a profound effect - perhaps even be the springboard to a revolution in mankind's outlook on the universe."

Recent Michigan Sightings: Lake Erie

A significant sighting from August 22, 2000, near the Fermi 2 Nuclear plant in Lake Erie is reported, with witnesses only recently coming forward. Two individuals fishing reported a cylindrical bright light rising from a pond, hovering, and then rapidly speeding off across Lake Erie without sound. The object was described as round, brightly illuminated, and approximately 150-200 feet above the lake. The witnesses faced ridicule from their families but were convinced to report their experience. The area is now a restricted 'bird sanctuary' with security guards.

John Shepherd to Speak at May Meeting

John Shepherd, founder of Project S.T.R.A.T. Earth Station One, is scheduled to speak at the May 4, 2008 meeting in Flint, MI. Shepherd's project began in 1971, focusing on Special Telemetry Research And Tracking. He will discuss his involvement in the 1972 ULF radio transmitter broadcasts and his experiences during the 1973 UFO wave. Shepherd also reflects on the influence of science fiction television and the current state of television's role in society.

MUFON Field Investigator's Training

Gary Golem will lead a morning Field Investigator's training session. Attendees are asked to bring the Field Investigator's Manual if possible.

Meeting Reservations

Information is provided for making reservations for the Michigan MUFON meeting on Sunday, May 4, 2008, at Walli's East Restaurant in Burton, Michigan. Contact State Director Bill Konkolesky or email [email protected] by Wednesday, April 30.

2008 MUFON Symposium

A preview of the 2008 MUFON Symposium in San Jose, California, from July 24-27, lists several presenters and their topics. These include Nick Pope on Britain's X-Files, Leslie Kean on a November 2007 press conference, Wilfried De Brouwer on the Belgian UFO wave, Dr. Richard Haines on UAP impacts on aviation, Don Ledger on pilot encounters, Rodrigo Bravo on military plane encounters, Farah Yurdozu on Turkey's UFO history, Dr. Anthony Choy on Peruvian UFO cases, Larry Lemke on the 'Hole In Cloud' phenomenon and Hessdalen, Norway cases, George Knapp on Area 51 reporting, and John Greenwald on The Black Vault.com.

Michigan MUFON Contact List

A comprehensive contact list for Michigan MUFON State Section Directors and officers is provided, including names, phone numbers, and email addresses for various counties and roles.

Suggestion Box and Subscription Form

Readers are invited to provide comments and suggestions via a suggestion box and are encouraged to subscribe to the newsletter. A form for 2008 Michigan MUFON State Dues and Newsletter Subscription is included, with a cost of $25.00.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes MUFON's mission of investigating UFO phenomena, encouraging public participation through field investigation training and reporting sightings. There is a strong emphasis on research, original investigation, and the importance of credible reporting. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, while maintaining a professional and organized approach, as evidenced by the detailed meeting minutes and statistical reports. The inclusion of scientific research (like the Alpha Centauri article) alongside sighting reports indicates a broad interest in related fields. The newsletter also highlights the efforts of its members and leadership.