MUFON Minnesota Journal - No 072

Magazine Overview

The MINNESOTA MUFON Newsletter, Issue #72, dated July/August 1998, is a 10-page publication from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) focusing on UFO phenomena, alien encounters, and related topics. The issue features articles, book reviews, and reports on investigations.

From the State Director

This section, written by John Carpenter, Director of Abduction Research for MUFON, highlights his extensive work with UFO encounters, particularly those involving abduction. Carpenter, who has a background in social work and clinical hypnosis, has studied over 130 cases. He notes a correlation in the types of alien beings reported globally, with 'Grays' comprising about 80% of encounters in Britain, and similar numbers found in America and Australia. He also mentions physical evidence such as incisions, scoop marks, and dehydrated soil patches, which are consistent across worldwide reports. Carpenter points out that farmers in Australia have reported black helicopters chasing UFOs. He concludes that the correlation of these details makes the phenomenon's reality "astounding."

Carpenter then recounts specific abduction encounters. One involves a nurse from Sydney who as a child experienced large balls of light entering her bedroom, transporting her to a playground with other children where they were examined by Reptilians under the supervision of Grays. Another case describes a therapist in Perth who, as an adult, experienced Praying Mantis beings in her house, with hypnosis revealing a lifetime of early-age intrusions. The report mentions that three hybrid children were produced in this case.

The article also touches upon historical accounts, including a story about 4000 English soldiers disappearing into a thick cloud near Galipoli, Turkey, in 1915. It references a July 3, 1893 article from the Daily Ledger in Tacoma about an 'Electric Monster' encountered by surveyors near a stream, which emitted light and sound and attacked two men. Folklore is discussed, with fairies accused of using humans to improve genetic stock, and descriptions of goblins are provided. Carpenter also mentions the Vahlenov plate from Nepal, dated 1000 years old, which depicts a sun, a UFO, Grays, and reptiles.

Excerpts from the Bible and related manuscripts are included, discussing concepts like 'monogenes' (from which 'monogenesis' derives) and accounts from 'The Book of Mary' and 'The Book of Infancy' that describe unusual events surrounding Jesus' birth, suggesting time standing still or everyone being 'switched off.' The Star of Bethlehem is interpreted as an angel in star form.

Carpenter's written account, which is nearly 40 pages long, includes descriptions of alien encounters and influences dating back to early writings, cave paintings showing aliens and spacecraft, and archaeological finds like a 1.3-meter human-like footprint in South Africa and a similar one in Sri Lanka.

The section concludes by urging members to obtain the 'Proceedings' from MUFON to read the full text of presentations and announces that the next issue will summarize presentations from Denver.

Nighttime Awareness Research

Written by Candy Peterson, this article explores the potential connection between consciousness, sleep disorders, and alien abduction research. It highlights that lucid dreams, out-of-body experiences, alien abductions, and demonic or spiritual experiences may share an indistinct boundary. The article explains that the body naturally enters a state of paralysis during sleep to prevent acting out dreams, but individuals with Recurrent Isolated Sleep Paralysis (RISP) experience this consciously, finding it frightening. Symptoms of RISP, such as paralysis, difficulty breathing, confusion, and the perception of otherworldly beings, are noted as being very similar to alien abduction reports.

The intermittent nature of both RISP and alien abductions is noted. The article discusses how background noises can be misinterpreted as threatening during a near-sleeping state, leading to elaborate fabricated representations. Joseph Polanik, originator of the ASP (Awareness during Sleep Paralysis) list, is quoted stating that the phenomenon is more about "Awareness" than "Paralysis." This raises questions about the accuracy of abduction memories retrieved through hypnotic regression and whether they represent objectively real episodes or subjective dreams.

The article considers the diversity of reported alien beings and suggests it could be due to contamination from individual dream imagery. However, it also mentions that researchers like John Carpenter and Dan Wright have found a specific core sequence of commonly reported abduction events not attributable to published media, suggesting a possible common fabric of human brain architecture.

It is suggested that incorporating research from other areas, such as Elizabeth Loftus' work on False/repressed Memory Syndrome, could tighten up abduction research and hypnosis methodology. The article posits that non-human forces might be behind alien abductions and could also manifest as nighttime events perceived as dreams or nightmares. While physical trauma like marks and scars are associated with some abduction reports, the article questions whether dreams can produce physiological changes, citing Martin V. Riccardo's 'Liquid Dreams of Vampires' and the idea of stigmatists' wounds. The author concludes that there may be greater equivalency across UFO, paranormal, and mainstream consciousness studies than individual experts acknowledge, and that finding answers might require looking "outside where the light is shining – rather than in the dark."

Joseph Polanik's Trionic Research Institute and a paper by Jean-Christophe Terrillon & Shirley Marques-Bonham on RISP are referenced for further information.

Truth is out there, says UFO group

This brief news item from TRI-CITY NEWS in Vancouver, B.C., dated April 5, 1998, introduces UFO*BC, a conspiracy theory group that focuses on local unexplained events. Founded in March 1996, UFO*BC receives about four to five calls a week regarding sightings, conspiracy theories, ghosts, and Sasquatch. They investigate these events and make their discoveries public. The organization funds its activities by bringing in speakers on topics like alien abductions and crop circles. UFO*BC publishes a magazine four times a year and has a website.

Sarah Speaks Out

This article, referencing the May/June Newsletter, discusses a press release by White House Correspondent Sarah McClendon, who criticized the government's "blanket of secrecy" regarding UFOs. McClendon stated that government officials with UFO knowledge cannot discuss the subject without repercussions, and that media professionals avoid the topic for fear of being labeled "crazy." She claimed that the Clinton administration received briefings on the subject, with information provided by Laurence Rockefeller, and that President Clinton instructed Webster Hubbell to investigate UFOs, but the Justice Department obstructed these efforts.

McClendon acknowledged that information about UFOs is slowly being revealed, citing Dr. Steven Greer's CSETI initiative to gather one million signatures for a petition calling for open Congressional hearings for government employee witnesses. She also mentioned that Col. Philip J. Corso and others from secret defense and scientific agencies are willing to testify that alien craft are penetrating U.S. airspace.

The article confirms that Sarah McClendon is indeed the author of the press release, noting her appearance on Art Bell's Coast to Coast radio program where she was sharp, witty, and energetic despite being 88 years old.

The North Sea UFO

This report, appearing in UFO Roundup and summarized from the Daily Telegraph and Daily Mail of London, details an incident where a giant UFO was chased over the North Sea by British and Dutch jet interceptors. The RAF radar station at Fylingdales, North Yorkshire, reportedly picked up a UFO "the size of a battleship" (900 feet long). While the RAF Press Office and Dutch ufology group A.U.R.A. disputed the claim, new information emerged. The UFO reportedly eluded the interceptors and streaked away at an estimated 24,000 miles per hour. The incident's date is not specified, but a local Irish couple claimed to have seen a similar UFO on February 28, describing it as hovering at about 400 feet, approximately 250 feet wide and 100 feet high, with lights and panels.

Field Investigation Report

Written by Craig R. Lang, MN MUFON F.I. Coordinator, this report details ongoing investigations in the Minnesota area. One case involves a multiple witness sighting of a triangle-shape UFO in New Brighton in August 1996, observed by fishermen on Long Lake. The object hovered, drifted backwards, and then sped off to the southeast.

Another investigation concerns close encounters in northwestern Wisconsin from Fall 1996, including a possible abduction. The witness recalled a light over her house and later saw a large UFO moving towards her. A dead spot on the back lawn and dead bushes were found. Ongoing paranormal events are also reported. Chad Lewis and Craig Lang conducted a preliminary investigation and survey.

A third investigation is in progress regarding strange anomalies in Douglas County, northern Wisconsin, from the late 1970s.

Book Review: Brother Termite, by Patricia Anthony

Reviewed by Scott Carr, Editor, Flying Saucer Review, this section reviews Patricia Anthony's novel 'Brother Termite.' The book is set fifty years in the future, featuring aliens walking freely among humans and an extraterrestrial Chief-of-Staff in the White House. The reviewer praises the novel for its ability to maintain mystery and eeriness while staying true to contemporary UFO culture. The story explores themes of alien menace, flying saucers, abductions, and political intrigue, presenting a bleak yet hopeful future. The reviewer highlights how the novel subverts the 'Everyman' theme by transforming larger-than-life heroes into ordinary individuals. The book is highly recommended for those interested in UFOs, science fiction, drama, philosophical questions, political espionage, thrillers, and romance. It is described as an imaginative and engaging satire that approaches the UFO phenomenon with intelligence and thoughtfulness.

The Contact Has Begun by Phillip H. Krapf

Reviewed by William I. McNeff, this section critically analyzes Phillip H. Krapf's book 'The Contact Has Begun.' McNeff finds the book logical and interest-holding but questions its correspondence to reality. He notes that Krapf, during an Art Bell interview, couldn't recall an answer and needed to check the book. McNeff points out that Krapf's description of 'gray-type' aliens with Spock-like pointed ears is unusual, as most grays lack external ears, and other aliens with external ears do not fit the description. The reviewer also questions Krapf's assertion that no prominent people have been abducted, citing Ray Fowler and a former Secretary General of the United Nations as counterexamples. McNeff disputes Krapf's characterization of the reaction to Orson Welles' 'War of the Worlds' broadcast and notes that Krapf doesn't mention the 'hybridization' program. The reviewer believes that if hundreds describe the same phenomena, it can be assumed to be genuine. He also doubts Krapf's claim that 'Verdants' are the only species to colonize and finds it odd that aliens would claim their ships discovered Heaven. McNeff suggests that if the book is fiction, Krapf may recant his belief in God, but if it's part of a plan to discomfit believers, it's Machiavellian. He finds the timetable presented in the book for preliminary contact plans (early 2001) and public announcements (early 2002) interesting. Despite his objections, McNeff recommends the book as good science fiction, with a logical plan for contact.

Ronald McAlien?

Written by Candy Peterson, this article examines the popularity of UFOs and aliens among children, particularly in relation to McDonald's Happy Meals. It highlights McDonald's global influence and the widespread recognition of Ronald McDonald. The article notes that Ronald McDonald's first appearance was in 1963, and he became McDonald's official spokesperson for children in 1967. The author mentions receiving a Happy Meal audiocassette titled 'That's My Ronald' with five songs, and speculates on the profitability of marketing ET multi-culturalism to children.

Save The Aliens

This section presents the lyrics to a song titled 'Save The Aliens,' produced by Gary Fry, with contributions from Fallon, Seidelman, and Fry. The song features Ronald McDonald and a children's chorus, with spoken parts and electronic-sounding alien voices. The narrative involves picking up a signal from stranded aliens on an asteroid and launching a rescue mission. The song includes themes of helping others, even if they are different, and a catchy, patriotic marching song style. The article concludes by questioning whether this is part of a global Preparation-for-ET-Contact plan or a savvy marketing move, and whether adults are listening to these gift tapes for children.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific and anecdotal investigation of UFO sightings and alien abductions, the potential psychological and physiological connections to sleep phenomena, and the examination of government secrecy surrounding the topic. The newsletter also engages with the cultural impact of UFOs, as seen in book reviews and the analysis of marketing to children. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging research from various disciplines and critically evaluating claims while acknowledging the possibility of genuine phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based investigation, as demonstrated by the field reports and the critical review of Krapf's book.

Title: MINNESOTA MUFON
Issue: Newsletter
Date: January 1978 (implied by incident date)
Publisher: Minnesota MUFON
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Minnesota MUFON Newsletter focuses on field investigations and UFO sightings. It provides contact information for key personnel within the Minnesota MUFON organization, including the State Director, Asst. State Director, Field Investigation Coordinator, and Newsletter editor. It also lists the National MUFON Hotline and the Minnesota MUFON web page.

Field Investigation Report

The main content details a field investigation report, which appears to be a continuation from a previous page. The report describes several UFO-related events that occurred around January 1978.

Incident 1: Laser Lights and Electric Shock

An experiencer contacted MUFON after a meeting to report a number of encounters. Several events occurred about two weeks apart in January 1978. During the first incident, in the early morning hours, three witnesses were investigating previous UFO sighting reports in the area. While sky watching at the location of prior sightings, they observed "laser" lights that appeared to be projected on the back windshield of their car from behind. Subsequently, the primary witness experienced what he described as a severe electric shock that "locked him up" for many minutes.

Incident 2: UFO Over Superior, WI

The day following the electric shock incident, the primary witness, along with possibly several other witnesses, observed a large UFO over Superior, Wisconsin.

Incident 3: Red Ball of Light

A few weeks later, two of the sky watchers were again working at the same location. This time, late at night, they observed a red ball of light, approximately a few feet in diameter, emerging from the snow-covered road. The object ascended several feet into the air, then descended back into the road. This event lasted only a few seconds. A few seconds later, it occurred a second time. Upon witnessing this, the observers used a spotlight to inspect the area but found no unusual traces or effects remaining in the snow.

Reporting and Investigator Information

The newsletter encourages anyone with additional information on these sightings or who has experienced a UFO sighting to contact Minnesota MUFON field investigators via their web site or the UFO hotline. It notes that most new sightings, ongoing investigations, and completed case reports are listed on the MN MUFON web site, which also includes several anonymous close encounter cases.

Becoming a Field Investigator

For those interested in becoming a field investigator, classes are conducted approximately three times a year, provided there is sufficient interest. Individuals interested must have the necessary time, energy, and objectivity. They should contact Craig Lang via email or phone, or sign up at MN MUFON meetings. Additionally, applicants need to join MUFON as a field investigator trainee and purchase the MUFON field investigators manual.

The newsletter emphasizes the need for more investigators to help understand the UFO and CE4 phenomenon, stating that those who seriously study UFO events will find ample challenge and mystery.

Other Information

Contributors: Scott Carr, Craig Lang, Bill McNeff, Dick Moss, Candy Peterson.
Subscription: The MINNESOTA MUFON Newsletter is a bi-monthly publication. The annual subscription rate is $12.00.
National MUFON Hotline: 1-800-836-2166
MUFONET: 7.237 mhz, 7:00 AM CST, Saturdays, with Bob Schultz as Net Control.
MN MUFON WEB PAGE: http://www.wavefront.com/~jhenry/index.html, managed by Joel Henry.

Theosophical Meetings

Information is provided for Theosophical Meetings held by The Theosopical Society at The First Unitarian Society in Minneapolis, located at 900 Mount Curve Avenue. Meetings are at 7:30 PM. For dates and program information, individuals can call Peter Morris or Rolf Canton.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the active investigation of UFO phenomena by MUFON in Minnesota. The editorial stance is one of encouraging public participation in reporting sightings and in becoming trained investigators to further the understanding of UFOs and related phenomena. The publication also serves as a community bulletin board for related groups like the Theosophical Society.