MUFON Michigan Newsletter - 2009 01

Magazine Overview

This is the January 2009 issue of the Michigan MUFON newsletter, titled "Happy New Year!" It serves as the official publication for the Michigan Mutual UFO Network, providing updates on UFO sightings, investigations, and related topics.

Words From the State Director

Bill Konkolesky, the State Director, reports that 2008 was a successful year for Michigan MUFON, with a significant increase in reported UFO sightings. The number of sightings more than doubled from 84 in 2007 to 176 in 2008. Konkolesky attributes this rise to growing public awareness of MUFON. He thanks the field investigators, including Sunny Young and Gary Golem, for their efforts in investigating what he calls "the greatest scientific mystery of our time." He also expresses gratitude to all officers and investigators for their hard work and thanks members for attending meetings. Members are reminded to pay their 2009 MIMUFON membership dues of $25 per family to continue receiving the newsletter. Renewal options include PayPal, cash/check at meetings, or mail.

Inside this issue:

The table of contents highlights several key articles:

• "Sweet! Galactic Molecule Could Point to Alien Life" (Page 4)
• "UFO enthusiasts call on Obama to release X-Files" (Page 5)
• "President Obama and UFOs" (Page 6)
• "Another unexplained sighting in Stephenville" (Page 7)
• "Bill Murphy's Column: Mysteries of Space and Sky V Continues to be a Premiere Venue" (Pages 9-11)
• "Massive UFO reported in Ohio" (Page 11-12)
• "Apollo Astronauts say 'We Went to the Moon'" (Page 13)
• "Michigan MUFON State Section Directors Meeting Minutes" (Page 14)
• "Recent Michigan Sightings" (Page 15)
• "From The Editor's Desk" (Page 18)

Sweet! Galactic Molecule Could Point to Alien Life

This article from Universe Today (November 26, 2008) reports on the detection of an organic sugar molecule, glycolaldehyde, in a star-forming region of the galaxy, approximately 26,000 light years from Earth. This molecule is directly linked to the origin of life, as it can react to form ribose, a key component of RNA. The discovery, made using the IRAM radio telescope in France by an international team, is significant because glycolaldehyde was previously only found in extreme conditions near the galactic center. Its presence in an area where habitable planets might exist suggests that the production of this life-essential ingredient could be widespread, improving the chances of finding alien life. Professor Keith Mason of the STFC calls the discovery "very exciting" and a crucial piece of information in the search for alien life.

UFO enthusiasts call on Obama to release X-Files

By Tim Shipman in Washington (November 30, 2008), this article details how UFO enthusiasts are urging President-Elect Barack Obama to release classified government documents related to UFO sightings. They are encouraged by public statements from John Podesta, head of Obama's transition team, and Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico. The Extraterrestrial Phenomenon Political Action Committee has written to Obama, calling for an end to a "six-decade truth embargo" and requesting a "full briefing" from military and intelligence agencies, along with congressional hearings. The article notes Podesta's past role in declassifying intelligence documents and Richardson's belief in a government "cover-up" regarding the Roswell Incident. The recent declassification of UK UFO files is cited as putting pressure on the US. Milton Torres, a former US Air Force pilot, is mentioned for his testimony about being ordered to shoot down a UFO. Stephen Bassett expects 40,000 signatures by Obama's inauguration to support the call for openness, believing that Democrats are moving towards disclosure.

President Obama and UFOs

This editorial discusses President-Elect Obama's apparent lack of interest in UFOs and space exploration, contrasting it with his focus on terrestrial economic issues. It notes his statements to Tim Russert of NBC News and his support for NASA's basic research while emphasizing the need to fund programs that help people on Earth. The article suggests that Obama may be more inclined towards diplomacy than military solutions and questions whether he will pursue UFO disclosure. It speculates that if convinced of extraterrestrial visitation, Obama might support disclosure to unveil alternative energy sources derived from captured UFO technology. The author believes that unlike past administrations that faced resistance in uncovering UFO information, Obama might receive a briefing and potentially support disclosure.

Another unexplained sighting in Stephenville

By Angelia Joiner (Special to the Reporter-News, November 20, 2008), this article recounts a sighting by Michael Corn in Stephenville, Texas. Corn, a former Army member, observed a brightly lit object with pulsing amber/orange lights that moved slowly and appeared to be over the courthouse. He described the bottom as smooth and believed the technology was beyond human capability. His girlfriend, Ashley Couch, described it as resembling a carousel lying on its side. Another observer also reported seeing strange lights. Area law enforcement received about 10 calls reporting a craft or lights, though some may have been flares.

One Year Old Indiana Sighting w/Photo

This personal account describes a sighting from January 31, 2008, in Indiana. The witness saw an object resembling a helicopter but without noise, hovering about 300-400 feet away. The object exhibited a "wavy-ness" in the air around it and then disappeared westward at high speed. The witness also recalled seeing similar "tricks" from lights in the sky as a child.

Mysteries of Space and Sky V Continues to be a Premiere Venue

This column by Bill Murphy covers the "Mysteries of Space & Sky V" conference held on November 1, 2008, at Anne Arundel Community College in Arnold, Maryland. The conference, themed "The UFO Phenomenon," included a significant focus on abductions. The event featured presentations by researchers such as Dr. S. Peter Resta, Rob and Sue Swiatek, Keith Chester, Don Berliner, Anna Jamerson, and Dr. David M. Jacobs. Dr. Resta discussed the Pascagoula Abduction Case, highlighting new information from a police officer and a tape of an interview with abductee Charlie Hickson. Sue Swiatek presented on "The Area's Best UFO Investigations," including cases from the "Pandora Files" and a disturbing case of a man whose lungs were "fried" by alien captors. Rob Swiatek discussed "The Case of the Brass Cartridge and Other UFO Events of 2008," including the Stephenville, Texas sightings. Keith Chester spoke on "Military Encounters with UFOs in W.W. II," presenting dramatic WWII aerial encounter reports. Don Berliner offered "Personal Reflections" on the UFO phenomenon, noting the lack of definitive "proof" of alien craft but emphasizing the need to deal with second-hand information, and mentioning the Socorro, New Mexico sighting. Anna Jamerson shared her experiences and insights on "A Lifetime of Abductions," expressing mistrust of captors' statements. Dr. David M. Jacobs presented on "The Hybrid Presence on Earth," arguing that the purpose of abduction is a central reproductive focus, a shift from his earlier "experimental model" theory.

Monthly Statistical MUFON Report - for November – December 2008

This report details global and US UFO sighting data compiled by MUFON's CMS (Cross-referencing and Monitoring System). In November 2008, there were 692 worldwide sightings, with 618 in the US (16 in Michigan). This included 31 Landings, Hovering, or Takeoffs and 55 Entities observed worldwide. In December 2008, there were 449 worldwide sightings, with 404 in the US (17 in Michigan). This included 28 Landings, Hovering, or Takeoffs and 27 Entities observed worldwide. Readers are directed to www.mufon.com for detailed data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and the broader implications of potential extraterrestrial contact. There is a strong emphasis on scientific investigation and data collection, as exemplified by the statistical reports and the coverage of the "Mysteries of Space and Sky V" conference. The publication also engages with political developments, particularly concerning the potential for government disclosure under the Obama administration. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging member participation and the sharing of experiences and research.

This issue of the Michigan MUFON Newsletter, dated January 2009, focuses on significant UFO events and ongoing advocacy for disclosure. The cover story highlights a "Massive UFO reported in Ohio," accompanied by photographic evidence and witness testimony. The newsletter also features articles addressing the Apollo Moon landing hoax theories, recent UFO sightings in Michigan, and an editorial urging President Elect Barack Obama to pursue UFO disclosure.

Articles and Reports

Massive UFO reported in Ohio

This article by Steve Hammons details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on Friday, October 24th, along the Ohio River. A military veteran, Tim Comstock, reported seeing an object described as "about the size of a large shopping mall and parking lot." Comstock, a truck driver, observed a brightly lit object that appeared to be rising, followed by a much larger dark object with three bluish lights in a triangular pattern. He managed to capture three photos of the event with his cell phone. The encounter began when Comstock noticed other cars pulled over and people observing something in the sky. He described the primary object as "white light with a little bit of orange inside of it," with a biological shape. He also noted a pattern of three large, non-flickering bluish lights above it. Comstock, who has military experience with helicopters, estimated the altitude of the smaller object to be a couple thousand feet initially, and the larger craft to be around 500 feet when he lost sight of it. He described the larger craft as dark gray or black with a crystalline surface, resembling a "cracked open piece of coal." Comstock expressed that the experience was "beautiful and awesome" and a "paradigm shift" that changed his perspective on life and the universe.

Oklahoma – Disk

A brief report from Tulsa, Oklahoma, dated November 26, 2008, describes a sighting of four bright, solid orange points of light in a V formation that appeared to be moving easterly. The witness noted that the lights were not aircraft and that this was the second such experience in a month.

Recent Michigan Sightings

This section compiles several recent UFO sightings from Michigan:

• Southgate, MI (December 28, 2008): Four bright, solid orange points of light were observed in a V formation, moving easterly and looping around each other before fading out. The witness noted the silence and the unusual movement.
• Feltham, MI (January 1, 2009): Five orange lights were seen in the sky, described as too high for fireworks and vanishing quickly. This sighting was reportedly heard about on local and national radio.
• Jackson, MI (December 21, 2008): A triangular craft with four lights (one at the top, two at the sides, and a red light in the middle) was observed flying and then turned north.
• Rochester Hills, MI (December 7, 2008): During the afternoon, an object described as a "flying wing" with multiple, changing wings and a plasma tail was observed. The object drifted slowly, seemingly unaffected by the wind, and its wings changed shape, position, and color. The witness estimated its size to be 2-5 feet across and its altitude to be 200-300 feet.

In Their Own Words: Apollo Astronauts say "We Went to the Moon"

Written by Nancy Atkinson, this article addresses the persistent theories that the Apollo Moon landings were faked. It presents direct quotes from Apollo astronauts, including Charlie Duke, Dave Scott, Gene Cernan, Alan Bean, Buzz Aldrin, and Mike Collins, who unequivocally affirm that they went to the moon. They challenge the logic of faking the landings multiple times and emphasize the impossibility of maintaining such a massive secret.

Henry Ford sees UFO

This report, referencing The Saucer News Summer of 1969, details an experience of Henry Ford II. While on a plane with other Ford executives, he observed a "dish" shaped object for 30 minutes to an hour. He described it as "round and white" and "quite a thing." The report notes that Ford was a prominent figure and not someone likely to fabricate such a story.

Sunday, Jan. 25th. Meeting

This section announces an upcoming Michigan MUFON meeting and Field Investigator's Training. The training will feature a UFO documentary by Dorothy Izatt, a contactee who claims to have filmed her UFO experiences over 30 years. The documentary, "Capturing the Light," reportedly shows pulsating objects, including a "golden ball" with remarkable energy output. The meeting will also include presentations by various MUFON members and a display by new member Kurt Kohl.

Michigan MUFON Meeting at Walli's East Restaurant

Details are provided for the Michigan MUFON meeting scheduled for Sunday, January 25, 2009, at Walli's East Restaurant in Burton, Michigan. The schedule includes Field Investigator Training, a buffet lunch, various presenters, and MUFON announcements. The map and directions to the venue are also included.

From The Editor's Desk: Dear Mr. President Elect

Editor David Twichell shares his letter to President Elect Barack Obama, urging him to address the UFO phenomenon and end the government's "denial and ridicule" policy. Twichell highlights the efforts of organizations like MUFON, The Center for UFO Studies, and The Disclosure Project, which are working to bring UFO information into the scientific realm. He mentions that Presidents Clinton and Carter were reportedly stonewalled by the NSA and black operations regarding this subject. Twichell also touches upon the potential for reverse-engineered technologies from crashed disks that could provide free, non-polluting energy. He concludes by stating that "we are not alone in this vast sea of space" and that it is time for the world to know the truth.

Michigan MUFON Contact List

This section provides contact information for Michigan MUFON State Section Directors, Regional Directors, and other key personnel, including email addresses and phone numbers. It emphasizes email as the preferred method of contact.

Suggestion Box and Subscription Form

This part of the newsletter includes a "Suggestion Box" for reader feedback and a "Michigan MUFON 2009 State Dues and Newsletter Subscription Form" for those wishing to join or subscribe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reporting and investigation of UFO sightings, the debunking of UFO conspiracy theories (specifically the Moon landing hoax), and the persistent advocacy for government transparency and disclosure regarding the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance, as expressed by David Twichell, is strongly in favor of disclosure and believes that the public is ready to accept the truth about extraterrestrial presence and advanced technologies.