MUFON Minnesota Journal - No 105

Magazine Overview

Title: Minnesota MUFON Journal
Issue: #105
Date: January/February 2004
Publisher: MUFON (Mutual UFO Network)
Country: USA
Language: English

Directors Report

The Directors Report, authored by Joel Henry, Ed., notes a transition in MUFON Minnesota leadership as of January 1, 2004. Bill McNeff and Dick Moss will switch roles, with Dick becoming State Director and Bill Assistant State Director. The report is presented with Bill McNeff still listed as State Director at the time of printing.

Estimate of the Situation – 2004

By William I. McNeff, MN MUFON State Dir.

William I. McNeff's article discusses the continued infiltration of UFO subjects into mass media, citing the SciFi Channel's December 12th presentation of the Rendlesham Forest case. This presentation involved original witnesses and retraced steps at original locations, revealing that the two incidents occurred at different places, one out of sight of the famous lighthouse. McNeff commends the SciFi Channel for its research, noting that Col. Charles Halt admitted to 'toning down' his original report to "tone down" the report. McNeff also references a December 1998 meeting where an individual claimed to represent a government group involved in a phased release of UFO information. He mentions alleged government documents about "MJ-12" and retrievals of crashed aerial vehicles, referencing books by Linda Moulton Howe. An unsigned document from October 21, 1990, allegedly from a British and American think tank, aimed at acclimating the public to "first-hand encounter" phenomena and "crop circles," is also discussed. While source verification is lacking, McNeff finds the document's reasoning worthy of analysis.

Observations on Public Acclimation Program

This section, addressed to the Policy Committee, suggests continuing the current approach of releasing UFO information through unofficial channels. It notes that this method generates interest and awareness without causing undue stress, and provides a context for individuals experiencing first-hand encounters. The report anticipates that as more people have encounters, providing information to help them cope will become increasingly important. Civilian support groups are expected to assist in this area. The suggestion is made to gradually increase the accuracy and consistency of information, potentially releasing additional types of information, such as Identified Aerial Craft (IAC) sightings and "crop circles," as the public becomes more comfortable. It is observed that the research community is typically one to two years ahead of the mainstream media, allowing a timeframe for disclosures. The presence of informed citizens is seen as a valuable resource for unpredictable future events.

The article connects this approach to the "metered release" of information mentioned in the December 1998 meeting. It includes a third-hand story about a rancher near White Sands Proving Ground who heard a crash in July 1947 and found a crashed craft. This story is partially corroborated by an alleged government document on the Robert and Ryan Wood website, listing a crash site in the Oscura range. The dovetailing of these accounts increases confidence in the value of the Woods documents. The implication that disinformation and inconsistent information may have been circulated is noted, with a reference to "leaked government documents" possibly being altered. The importance of informed citizens is underscored, reminding one of the MJ-12 Briefing Document's mention of preparing for unforeseen events and highlighting the role of groups like MUFON.

Close Encounters and Taken, Two views of the UFO Phenomenon

By Steven Spielberg, ©2003 by Craig R. Lang, MS. CHt

Craig R. Lang reviews Steven Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and the miniseries "Taken," noting how both productions captured the state of UFO studies in the 1970s and the present day, respectively. Lang observes that "Close Encounters" depicted elements of the abduction phenomenon, such as repeated sightings and a compulsion to return to a location, though these were interpreted differently at the time. He contrasts the earlier "nuts and bolts" hypothesis of extraterrestrial visitation with the later emergence of the covert/furtive abduction phenomenon. Lang also discusses the concept of a universal language, referencing mantras, chants, and hand signs from Eastern traditions. He finds Spielberg's portrayal of the abduction phenomenon in "Taken" to be particularly impressive, capturing ambiguity and reality-shift aspects, as well as the family-line "inheritance" characteristic of experiencer families. The series raises questions about whether the character Allie, an "end-product" of these lineages, represents a new-human or a generation of "indigo children," and ponders if these beings represent the future of humanity.

Lang reflects on the evolution of UFO studies over the past 25 years and wonders what the next 25 years will bring, questioning if the mystery will be solved or if the phenomenon will continue to evolve, leaving an enigma. He also touches upon the idea of spiritual awakening being both a cause and effect of the phenomenon, suggesting a feedback cycle between predisposition and experience.

LT. COLONEL CHARLES HALT & THE RENDLESHAM FOREST CASE

By Bill McNeff

This section condenses accounts by Lt. Col. Charles Halt regarding the Rendlesham Forest case. It details the release of an official memorandum by Halt to the British Ministry of Defense in June 1983, which led to sensational claims in the "News of the World." The memorandum, dated January 13, 1981, describes an incident on December 27, 1980, where USAF security police observed unusual lights and a metallic, triangular object in the forest near RAF Woodbridge. The object was described as approximately two to three meters across the base and two meters high, with a pulsing red light on top and blue lights underneath. It maneuvered through trees and disappeared. The following day, three depressions were found on the ground, and radiation readings were taken. Later, more lights were observed, including five separate white objects that appeared to be shedding molten metal before vanishing.

Subsequent investigation revealed three definite marks ten feet apart, with surrounding pine trees damaged at a height of 25 feet. During a Christmas dinner party, an officer named Bruce England reported more unidentified lights at the East Gate. A team, including Halt, investigated and observed an orange-colored sphere moving intelligently. The object was described as oval, winking, with a black center, and moving horizontally. The team pursued the object for two minutes.

Halt's account includes witness statements describing the object as shedding molten metal, exploding, and then vanishing. Two elliptical objects were later observed moving fast and shining beams of light. A "UFO" then moved towards the servicemen, but left. The entire sequence of events lasted from 10:30 pm to 4:00 am. Halt recorded much of the encounter on a cassette. USAF HQ reportedly dismissed the incident as a "U.K. affair," and the Ministry of Defence showed no enthusiasm to discuss it. The "Halt Memo" was drafted at the insistence of Squadron Leader Morland and forwarded to Whitehall with no apparent result. Official film footage of the event reportedly disappeared. A puzzling event involved an unscheduled C141 Galaxy transporter arriving hours after the encounter, with "special individuals" disembarking and heading into the forest.

The CE4 Phenomenon: Whitley Strieber's Look at the Dark Side

By Craig R. Lang, MS. CHt

Craig R. Lang discusses Whitley Strieber's journal entries on his website, "Unknown Country," particularly articles titled "Shedding Light on the Dark Side." Lang finds Strieber's portrayal of the close encounter phenomenon's "dark side" unnerving but acknowledges Strieber's view that it is a distinct concern for experiencers. Lang suggests that the phenomenon is neither positive nor negative, but rather aggregate events independent of human value judgments. He posits that the meaning perceived in the phenomenon is what individuals bring to it. Lang also notes that severe contact trauma can be amplified by pre-existing clusters of memories, experiences, and thought-complexes, often stemming from childhood influences. He concludes that the phenomenon has a profound impact, acting as a catalyst for emotions and spirituality, and that a positive feedback cycle can exist between one's predisposition and their experiences. He cautions those who wish to experience contact, stating, "Be careful what you wish for."

SCI FI SUPPORTS NEW SCIENTIFIC INITIATIVE TO INVESTIGATE UNIDENTIFIED AERIAL PHENOMENA

This section announces a new initiative by SCI FI Channel to establish the scientific legitimacy of investigating Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). The initiative brings together major organizations like CUFOS, FUFOR, MUFON, NARCAP, NIDS, and NUFORC to form a multi-group effort to study physical evidence associated with UAP reports. The goal is to engage the broader scientific community through systematic investigations and publication in mainstream scientific journals. A joint website, www.ufoscience.org, has been created for public and scientist reporting. Dr. Mark Rodeghier of CUFOS emphasizes the need for combined knowledge and resources, while John Schuessler of MUFON highlights the importance of developing a framework for rapid investigation and analysis of cases with physical evidence. Don Berliner of FUFOR expresses hope that rigorous investigation will help understand the causes of UAP.

Field Investigator Update: Dec. 2003/Jan. 2004

By Craig R. Lang, MN MUFON FI Coordinator

Craig R. Lang reports on recent UFO activity in Minnesota. He details a "Forest Lake Sighting" on December 2, 2003, where a family observed a horizontal row of lights behaving unusually, strobing in various colors and remaining stationary for about 10 minutes before jumping horizontally and then approaching. The object was described as a horizontal row of lights, then two solid amber lights. The sighting was "almost, but not quite" explainable as an aircraft due to its silence and behavior.

Lang also describes the "Lindstrom Lights" case, where a group observed eight lights rising from behind the tree line, some of which shot up and disappeared, while others faded out. This sighting is also deemed "almost-explainable."

Glenwood, MN 11-8-03 and 11-29-03 Sightings and Pictures

This section details two sightings investigated by Bill McNeff and analyzed by Brian Vike of HBCCUFO.

November 8 Sighting/Photo: A witness reported an oval-shaped light coming from the east, turning vertical, emitting a brilliant white light with a reddish glow, and then blinking off. The object was estimated to be 30 feet long and approximately 900 feet away. Photo analysis confirmed the object's angular diameter and ruled out it being the moon. The witness's statements were deemed accurate, and the conclusion was that the object was unusual and unidentified.

November 29 Sighting/Photo: Five witnesses reported seeing a "HUGE bright light" in the western sky that zipped southeast and then moved southwest, flashing multiple lights and changing shape. The object then sank slowly on the horizon for about 20 minutes. The husband submitted sketches showing a disc-shaped craft with windows. The sighting was described as "HUGE" and unlike anything seen before.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently explores the evolving understanding of the UFO phenomenon, from government secrecy and disclosure to the personal impact on individuals (CE4). There's a strong emphasis on scientific investigation and the need for rigorous analysis of physical evidence, as highlighted by the new initiative involving multiple research organizations. The articles suggest a shift from viewing UFOs as simple craft to understanding a more complex phenomenon involving abductions and potential consciousness-altering effects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging detailed reporting and analysis while acknowledging the often "almost-explainable" nature of sightings and the profound, life-changing impact of close encounters. There is a recurring theme of caution regarding the phenomenon's potential for trauma, balanced with an optimistic outlook on humanity's ability to adapt and learn.

This issue of the Minnesota MUFON Journal, identified as issue number 13, focuses on UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) investigations, witness testimonies, and related topics. It includes an investigator's analysis of digital images and witness sketches from sightings in Minnesota, a review of a book on the UFO phenomenon, and significant quotes from military and astronautic figures regarding UFOs and potential extraterrestrial contact.

Witness Testimonies and Investigator's Analysis

The journal presents statements from witnesses of unusual aerial phenomena. Witness #2 described steady, clear horizontal lights, while Witness #3 and their son submitted a sketch of a disc-shaped object with lights and a vertical reflection. The investigator's analysis of digital pictures revealed a horizontal, irregular red blob that, after enhancement, showed a row of six brighter areas or lights, confirming the witnesses' descriptions to some extent. The photoanalyst noted indications of vertical motion blurring, potentially consistent with an aircraft strobe, and questioned the resolution of the provided images.

Book Review: Sight Unseen

The issue features a review of the book "Sight Unseen" by Budd Hopkins and Carol Rainey. The reviewer, Craig R. Lang, highlights the book's examination of cases involving temporary invisibility and "human-appearing beings." It delves into the concept of "transgenics" as a potential explanation for human-alien hybridization, addressing criticisms regarding DNA incompatibility by referencing gene transplantation technology. The book posits that the CE4 phenomenon might represent external biotechnological tinkering with humanity for unknown purposes, with intermediate results sometimes present among humans.

Interesting UFO Quotes from High Ranking Military Officials

Several notable quotes are included from individuals with high-level access and experience:

• Vice Admiral R.H. Hillenkoetter, Former Director of Central Intelligence, stated that it is time for Congressional hearings on UFOs, noting that high-ranking Air Force officers are concerned but official secrecy and ridicule lead the public to dismiss the issue.
• Edgar Mitchell, Apollo 10, 14, & 16 Astronaut, affirmed that ET visitations and crashed craft have occurred, with a group of people concealing this knowledge.
• Colonel Gordon Cooper, Mercury & Gemini Astronaut, recounted an incident at Edwards Air Force Base where a saucer-shaped craft landed on a dry lakebed. He was certain it was not a human-made vehicle and believed the government covered it up due to fears of public panic.

Minnesota MUFON Information

The journal provides contact information for Minnesota MUFON, including its State Director, Assistant State Director, Field Investigator Coordinator, and Journal Editor. It also lists a website for back issues of the journal and details for the MUFONET and National MUFON Hotline.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO/UAP sightings, the analysis of evidence, the potential for government cover-ups and disinformation regarding these phenomena, and the exploration of theories such as extraterrestrial contact and hybridization. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging investigation, disclosure, and open discussion of these topics, as evidenced by the call for Congressional hearings and the provision of contact information for reporting sightings and engaging with MUFON.