MUFON Minnesota Journal - No 059

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Minnesota MUFON Newsletter, dated May/June 1996, focuses on various aspects of ufology, including the challenges faced by researchers, historical figures in the field, and recent developments in UFO research and media representation.

From the State Director: The Ufology Experience

The newsletter begins with a summary of a presentation by Charles Emmons, a Professor of Sociology at Gettysburg College. Emmons discussed the difficulties ufologists face due to a lack of academic and public support, a situation he traces back to the negative conclusions of the 1969 Condon Report. Researchers are hampered by a lack of funding, and their work is unlikely to be published in academic journals. Writing books about UFOs can jeopardize academic careers, and mass media coverage can be irrelevant or embarrassing. Business, industry, and government actively discourage association with UFOs. Emmons suggests that many in powerful positions are aware of the Condon Report's conclusions, leading to a reluctance to support UFO research proposals for fear of public perception.

Emmons also noted that some astronomers, while believing UFOs are worth studying, do not prioritize funding for such research. The article references nuclear scientist Enrico Fermi's famous question, "Where are the aliens?" and his reasoning that if advanced extraterrestrials existed, they should have arrived by now. The piece also addresses the idea that astronomers may observe UFOs but refrain from reporting them to avoid publicity, likening it to the "Emperor's New Clothes" scenario in reverse.

Emmons explored the motivations of ufologists, finding that a significant reason for pursuing this work, despite its lack of societal rewards, is personal UFO experience. One investigator stated that a sighting made the existence of UFOs undeniable, prompting a need to understand them. Other motivations include challenging scientific paradigms. The article notes that the social control systems in academia, business, and industry often punish those involved in ufology, leading many to keep their involvement private or 'in-the-closet.' This secrecy, while avoiding hassle, hinders progress. The text also touches on the idea that some people may be more prone to UFO experiences, suggesting a potential alien intention to direct individuals toward ufology, leading to a 'sense of mission' that can transform individuals but raise questions about objectivity.

MINNESOTA MUFON Meetings

Announcements are made for upcoming MUFON meetings on Saturday, May 11, and Saturday, June 8, at the Science Museum of MN Computer Education Center. Specific instructions are provided for building access, including a limited entry window and the need for security programming.

Who in the name of frenzy is Charles Fort?

This section, written by Todd Amundson, profiles Charles Hoy Fort, a pioneer in the study of anomalous phenomena. Fort, born in 1874, developed a distrust of authority due to an abusive father. After an unhappy childhood, he embarked on a journey around the world. Following a period of illness and marriage, he began spending time in the Brooklyn Public Library, writing novels and researching strange happenings. His first book, "The Book Of The Damned" (1919), focused on scientific data excluded by science due to its anomalous nature. Fort argued that scientists often base their conclusions on their own paradigms rather than objective data. His work influenced writers like Booth Tarkinton, John Cowper Powys, and Ben Hect, who coined the term "Fortean." Fort moved to London, researched in the British Museum, and published "New Lands" (1923), which revived interest in mysterious airship sightings. After returning to the Bronx in 1929 due to failing health, he published "Lo!" (1931). The Fortean Society was founded by Tiffany Thayer, though Fort himself declined to join. Fort's final book, "Wild Talents," published in 1932, focused on psychic phenomena. Charles Fort died on May 3, 1932. The article mentions INFO, the International Fortean Organization, and the magazine "Fortean Times."

COSMIC VOYAGE: A Book Review

William L. McNeff reviews Courtney Brown's book, "Cosmic Voyage: A Scientific Discovery of Extraterrestrials Visiting Earth." McNeff advises readers to be well-grounded in UFO and parapsychology information to appreciate the book. He notes that the book claims to reveal information that could radically alter history, drawing on CIA-sponsored research in remote viewing (SRV). A remote viewer reportedly saw a disc-shaped craft hovering over the ocean. Brown, trained in SRV, claims the technique allows for detailed sensory perception of the target. McNeff estimates Brown's accuracy at 90-95%, deeming it sufficient for government work. The book reportedly explores questions about life on other planets, human origins, Roswell, and Earth's future, with answers consistent with existing evidence or illuminating new puzzles. Brown allegedly discovered a Martian race nearly destroyed by a catastrophe but rescued by the Greys, with some Martians residing on Earth. He also found a correlation between Mars' proximity and UFO sighting peaks. The book discusses the Greys' goal of adding human capabilities to their own race and suggests humans were subjects of genetic manipulation. Brown also identified a galactic federation and explored religious questions, finding data supporting Animism, Buddhism, and Christianity. The book warns of environmental catastrophes on Earth similar to those that befell Mars, with the Greys potentially offering assistance. The reviewer expresses a renewed zeal to address environmental issues after reading the book.

There's a new world a'comin'!

This section discusses predictions by futurist Gordon-Michael Scallion, author of the "Earth Changes Report." Scallion predicts devastating Earth changes in the United States during the 1990s, including California fracturing, Phoenix becoming a seaport, and the Mississippi River becoming an inland seaway. Information on ordering a related wall map is provided.

The Greatest Story Never Told

This article by Donna Higbee recounts the Cold War era, specifically the late 1950s and early 1960s, when large numbers of metallic circular objects were observed flying from the Soviet Union westward. This led to heightened tensions and red alerts on both sides, with each nation suspecting the other of deploying these advanced craft. In 1961, a significant event involved numerous objects flying in formation over Soviet territory, Central Europe, France, and Germany, disappearing over the Norwegian Sea. In response, NATO/SHAPE established "The Assessment: An Evaluation of a Possible Military Threat to Allied Forces in Europe" study from 1961-1964. Major Robert O. Dean, an intelligence analyst at SHAPE, gained access to the top-secret document. The Assessment concluded that Earth has been extensively surveyed by multiple advanced extraterrestrial civilizations, with a long-term program underway. It noted that these civilizations possess technology far beyond ours and that there was no apparent military threat. By 1976, the US government was aware of at least four separate civilizations involved with Earth. Mr. Dean shares this information, violating his security oath, believing the truth about the extraterrestrial situation must be revealed.

The article also mentions that governments, with few exceptions, continue to cover up the truth about UFOs, with CIA agents reportedly influencing media outlets to rewrite or kill stories. James MacDonald, former Chairman of Atmospheric Physics at the University of Arizona, is quoted stating that those not interested in the UFO matter are simply uninformed. Mr. Dean agrees, finding the evidence overwhelming.

Birds of a Feather

This piece by Richard J. Boylan, Ph.D., discusses a clandestine group known as the "Aviary," formed in the 1970s by individuals with high security clearances working on UFO research and policy. Their objectives included coordinating data, analyzing UFOs and extraterrestrial contact, and gaining influence. These individuals used bird names as code names. The relationship between the Aviary and the hyper-secret Majestic-12 (MJ-12) group, described as the government's ultimate UFO information control group, is murky, with estimates of overlap. MJ-12 is reportedly designated P1-40 and operates outside presidential or congressional control. Dick D'Amato, a National Security Specialist, stated in 1991 that a powerful "black arm" of the government was hiding UFO information and illegally spending money. The article suggests that P1-40 has orchestrated the UFO cover-up since 1947, releasing information gradually to condition the public. Leaked reports indicate a split within the Aviary: one faction believes UFO/ET contact information should be broadly disclosed, while another resists, fearing loss of their 'information monopoly.' This split is reportedly leading to increased leaks. The article lists several reported Aviary members, including Bruce Maccabee, Ron Pandolfi, John Alexander, and Capt. Bob Collins, noting their roles and alleged involvement in UFO-related operations or intelligence.

"Independence Day" Exploits UFO Community

Glenn Campbell criticizes Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp. for using its upcoming movie "Independence Day" to promote the "Extraterrestrial Highway" in Rachel, Nevada. Fox funded lavish ceremonies and provided publicity, securing the state's endorsement. Campbell questions whether the ufologists involved in the promotion, including representatives from MUFON and UFO Magazine, are aware of the movie's plot, which he describes as a remake of "War of the Worlds." The script involves aliens unleashing a "WALL OF DESTRUCTION" that decimates cities, with survivors taking refuge at Area 51. Campbell argues that this portrayal, where UFO buffs are depicted as fools, ridicules the UFO movement and that the state's endorsement focuses only on weak claims like lights in the sky. He believes this exploitation, particularly the renaming of Route 375, does not advance the UFO movement and could lead to more credible claims being dismissed.

Psychiatry: The Dark Science

A brief item notes a New Mexico legislative bill that set limits on the testimony of psychologists, requiring them to wear cone-shaped hats and use a wand during competency hearings. The bill was passed by the Senate and House but vetoed by Governor Gary Johnson.

National UFO and Unexplained Phenomena Conference

An advertisement announces the "Dialogue With The Stars" conference in Minneapolis/St. Paul on October 5th and 6th, featuring speakers like Brad and Sherry Steiger, Stanton Friedman, and Budd Hopkins. Details on lecture, workshop, and banquet tickets are provided, along with contact information for Horus House Press, Inc.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently addresses the challenges and stigma associated with UFO research, highlighting the lack of mainstream acceptance and the efforts of dedicated individuals to uncover and disseminate information. There is a recurring theme of government secrecy and cover-ups, with articles detailing alleged clandestine operations and the slow release of information to the public. The publication appears to support the idea that UFOs and extraterrestrial contact are real phenomena worthy of serious investigation, while also critiquing how the topic is sometimes sensationalized or exploited by media and commercial interests. The editorial stance seems to favor disclosure and a more open approach to understanding these phenomena, while acknowledging the complexities and potential dangers involved.

This document is the MINNESOTA MUFON Newsletter, issue number 6. It provides updates on meetings, conferences, and related radio programs for UFO enthusiasts in Minnesota and beyond. The publication is printed six times a year with an annual subscription rate of $12.00.

Meeting Announcements and Procedures

The Minnesota MUFON has announced new procedures for their meetings held at the American Bank Building. Due to changes, Computer Education Center representatives will no longer handle admittance. This responsibility now falls to MUFON attendees Lynn Bell and Bill McNeff. To ensure smooth entry and minimize disruption to the meeting, attendees are urged to arrive between 1:00 and 1:40 pm. A secondary admittance time is available during the break at 3:00 pm. Attendees are strongly advised against using the stairway or seeking assistance from Security Guards, as this is outside their purview and may jeopardize future meeting arrangements.

The newsletter also provides contact information for key personnel within Minnesota MUFON, including Richard Moss (State Director), William McNeff (Asst. State Director), Lynn Bell (Treasurer & Editor), and Buddy Bauerlein (Field Investigator). It also acknowledges "Super Contributors" Todd Amundson, Joe Dundovic, and Bob Schultz. A National MUFON Hotline is provided for reporting UFO news and sightings.

Related Organizations and Events

The International Tesla Society is highlighted, noting their monthly meetings on the 3rd Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at The Pavek Wireless Museum in St. Louis Park, MN. Contact persons listed are Jeff Rafferty and Bob Bartholomew.

The ICAAR's Great Plains UFO Conference is announced for July 27-28 in Sioux Falls, SD, with a registration fee of $98. This conference features a notable lineup of speakers including Budd Hopkins, John Mack, Derrel Sims, Jack Kasher, John Foster, Chuck Brooks, John Anthony West, Stanley McDaniel, Christa Tilton, and David Brewer.

Radio Programs and Broadcasts

Several radio programs of interest to the UFO community are featured:

• The Laura Lee Show on KSTP-AM 1500 airs Saturdays from 11 PM to 4 AM. A catalog of tapes and books is available via phone.
• Art Bell's Dreamland is broadcast Sundays from 9 PM to Midnight, with BBS contact information provided.
• Extraordinary Science on WWCR 5.065 Mhz is hosted by Jeff McGinnis and airs Sundays at 10 PM.
• Extraordinary Science Radio Hour is hosted by J. W. McGinnis and also airs Sundays at 10 PM.

MUFONET and Listener Engagement

The newsletter encourages listeners to tune in to MUFONET, where Bob Schultz serves as Net Control Operator. Bob can be heard on Saturday mornings at 7:00 CST on 7.237 Mhz.

Readers are invited to submit news or editorial contributions to the newsletter, with direct articles and inquiries to be sent to Lynn Bell at the provided address and contact numbers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter's primary focus is on disseminating information about local and national UFO-related activities, including meetings, conferences, and broadcasts. The editorial stance appears to be informative and community-oriented, encouraging participation and contribution from its readership. There is a strong emphasis on adhering to rules and respecting facilities to maintain good relationships with venues and organizations that support their meetings.