MUFON Minnesota Journal - No 134

Magazine Overview

The Minnesota MUFON Journal, Issue #134, dated November/December 2008, is a publication from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) focusing on UFO sightings, investigations, and related phenomena. The issue features a prominent article on the September 19, 1976, Iranian jet encounter, alongside various other reports and analyses.

The September 19, 1976 Iranian Jet Encounter

This article by Dick Moss details an unusual encounter involving a UFO and two F-4 Phantom jets flown by Iranian pilots. The incident began with citizens reporting an odd-looking object, leading to an investigation by an F-4 jet. The object was exceptionally bright, visible from seventy miles away. A second jet was scrambled, making radar contact, but the object's size could not be estimated due to its brilliance. The UFO rapidly accelerated away from the F-4, and a smaller object emerged, disabling the F-4's weapons control panel and communications. The F-4 crew armed a missile but lost control systems. The smaller UFO followed the F-4 as it went into a dive, then turned back towards the larger craft. The F-4's instrument panel then came back online. Descriptions of the object varied, with some suggesting it was cylindrical, about eight yards long and two yards wide, with pulsating bluish-white ends and a small red light orbiting its middle. The lights emitted were described as flashing strobe lights in a rectangular pattern of alternating blue, green, red, and orange colors, so fast they appeared simultaneous. One account suggests the UFO may have landed, and residents reported hearing a loud noise and seeing a very bright light. Another account mentions a smaller UFO re-entering the larger craft, followed by a second ball of light diving downwards.

Scientists Develops Program to Understand Alien Languages

This section introduces a program developed by British scientist John Elliott of Leeds Metropolitan University, designed to help identify and potentially translate messages from aliens. The program compares alien language sounds with those of 60 human languages to find structural similarities. Elliott believes that even alien languages far removed from Earthly ones likely have recognizable patterns that reveal the intelligence of the life forms. The program analyzes "functional terms" that bracket phrases, noting that these terms in human languages are separated by up to nine words or characters, possibly corresponding to human cognitive limits. It aims to identify crucial words like nouns and verbs and locate adjectives. The program will compare potential alien messages against a database of human language syntaxes. US linguist Dr. Sheri Wells-Jensen from Bowling Green State University supports the endeavor, stating, "My money is on being able to understand aliens."

Prediction and Prophecy: What are the lessons from 10/14?

Authored by Craig R. Lang, this piece reflects on the unfulfilled prediction of an unambiguous UFO arrival on October 14th, channeled by Australian psychic Blossom Goodchild. Lang discusses the nature of prophecy versus prediction, noting that prophecy often serves as a warning, while prediction is a forecast with no choice involved. He suggests that predictions are less reliable but sometimes accurate, like premonitions of 9/11. Lang posits that glimpses into the future are limited and ambiguous, possibly designed to teach lessons. He advises using discernment when hearing predictions, such as those about alien arrivals or civilization collapse on 12/21/2012, suggesting that these might be warnings to "shape up" rather than literal events. The intent behind the prediction is more important than the date or details.

UFO INCIDENT AT MINOT, NORTH DAKOTA, OCTOBER 24, 1968

This article by William I. McNeff details the 40th anniversary of a significant UFO case. In the 1960s, pressure led the U.S. government to study UFOs, resulting in the Condon study, which concluded that further UFO study could not advance science. The Air Force shut down Project Blue Book in 1969. The author researched the Minot, ND case in the National Archives, finding about 100 pages of information. The incident involved a B-52 crew sighting an unidentified blip on radar at approximately 0300 hours, traveling at about 3000 mph. The object was reddish-orange with flashing green and white lights. It came directly overhead with the sound of jet engines. The object was observed for 45 minutes, with one witness describing it as separating into two parts and passing under each other. Two perimeter alarms at a missile silo went off, one triggered by interference with a chain link fence and the other by disturbance of the concrete lid. The article notes that Air Force personnel later found two airmen unconscious near the silo. The B-52 copilot, Capt. Brad Runyon, described the object as a metallic cylinder with a crescent moon-shaped section, emitting a greenish-yellow glow. He concluded it was an "alien spaceship." The Air Force's explanation of "plasma" is critically examined and dismissed due to the object's intelligent maneuvers and physical characteristics. The case is considered one of the most important UFO cases on record due to testimony from Air Force officers and physical evidence.

The UFOs Of ABC

By Billy Cox, this piece critiques ABC News' coverage of UFO-related topics. Cox criticizes a program called "UFOs: Seeing Is Believing" as a rehash and questions why ABC News focuses on old UFO incidents rather than recent ones, like radar records from Stephenville, Texas. The article notes ABC's coverage of declassified British Ministry of Defense documents concerning a U.S. pilot ordered to shoot down a UFO in 1957. The pilot, Milton Torres, described the object as having the "proportions of a flying aircraft carrier" on radar. The reporter, Ed/Nick Watt, is criticized for mixing straightforward reporting with a glib encounter with a woman named Brenda who claims to photograph ETs.

The CE4 Corner

Authored by Craig R. Lang, this section discusses the evolution of experiencers' relationships with the UFO phenomenon. Lang notes that initial encounters are often frightening or puzzling, leading to a "crisis stage" characterized by fear but also a need for answers and reconciliation. He emphasizes rebuilding one's reality and discerning lessons from encounters, suggesting that Visitors may convey messages about free will and psychic abilities. Lang observes that after resolution, the phenomenon often becomes less visible, though paranormal effects may persist. Most experiencers choose to incorporate the phenomenon into their lives, leading to profound growth, though some experiences are described as negative. The lifecycle of an experiencer typically progresses through stages of pre-awareness, crisis, resolution, acceptance, and growth.

Argentina: La Rioja UFO Witness Suffers Facial Paralysis

This report details an incident where Fernando Guerrero, an ambulance driver in La Rioja, Argentina, witnessed three UFOs and experienced facial paralysis. The event, which occurred on October 25, 2008, reportedly changed his life physically and psychologically. Guerrero described a sudden increase in light from his cell phone, which he was using to capture images of the objects. He felt "different" afterward, with half of his face becoming numb, particularly in the parietal region where he was struck by a "powerful light" from the UFO.

UFO Photos Examined With New Process

MUFON has been investigating photos of the STS-75 tether incident using a special process that enlarges images and reveals new detail. This process has also been applied to photos from the Texas Stephenville Sightings. The article mentions that older UFO photos, including those related to the Roswell incident, are being re-examined. The new photo process is expected to provide answers to many unsolved mysteries.

WHY ET DID NOT RETRIEVE AT ROSWELL

This article by Anthony Bragalia explores seven possible scenarios for why extraterrestrials might not have retrieved their craft and crew after the Roswell crash in 1947. These scenarios include the absence of a "companion craft," the difficulty of a covert retrieval, failure to locate the craft in time, concerns about the safety of retrieval, warring alien factions, initial hesitancy due to it being the first crash, or a deliberate intent to "seed" humanity with their technology and knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Minnesota MUFON Journal consistently focuses on detailed accounts of UFO sightings and encounters, emphasizing witness testimony and evidence. The publication appears to adopt a stance of serious investigation into these phenomena, often questioning official explanations and exploring alternative theories. There is a recurring theme of the need for discernment when interpreting UFO-related events, predictions, and prophecies. The journal also highlights scientific research efforts, such as the program to understand alien languages, and delves into historical UFO cases like Roswell and the Minot incident, suggesting a belief in the reality and significance of the UFO phenomenon.

Title: Minnesota MUFON Journal
Issue Date: October 2008
Publisher: MUFON
Document Type: Magazine Issue

UFO Lobbyist Offers to Brief Obama on Extraterrestrials

This article by Lauren Davis reports on Jeff Peckman's campaign to bring the issue of UFOs and extraterrestrial life to the forefront of political discourse. Peckman, who previously launched an initiative for an Extraterrestrial Affairs Commission in Denver and claimed to possess footage of a live ET, invited presidential candidate Barack Obama to receive a briefing. Peckman hopes to engage Obama before the election, suggesting that the CIA, as a keeper of shadowy information, might provide its own version of "extraterrestrial truth." The article references a declassified 21-page transcript from March 6-8, 1981, detailing a UFO/ET briefing at Camp David for President Reagan, which allegedly involved CIA Director William Casey and other advisors, and reportedly astonished Reagan. In contrast, the article notes that President Jimmy Carter's request for UFO/ET information after his inauguration was denied by CIA Director George Bush Sr., and key Republicans like Bush Sr. are rumored to be involved in withholding such information. President Clinton also reportedly had to rely on testimony organized by Dr. Steven Greer of the Disclosure Project due to a lack of official briefings. Peckman views his offer to Obama as a "courtesy" but ultimately wants the Democratic Party to advocate for extraterrestrial disclosure by incorporating four objectives into its platform: open, secrecy-free hearings on UFO/Extraterrestrial presence; open hearings on advanced energy and propulsion systems; legislation banning space-based weapons; and comprehensive legislation for peaceful space exploration. The article speculates that Senator McCain might be among the "key Republicans" withholding information.

The Right to Access Information is Central to Our National Security

Franklin D. Fields, Jr. Esq., in this article dated August 26, 2008, discusses the fundamental right of citizens to access factual information from the government. He argues that this access is crucial for citizens to form informed opinions and avoid being overwhelmed by propaganda. Fields asserts that unhindered access to information is essential for democratic governance and is a fundamental human right, as granted by the U.S. Constitution. He links intellectual freedom to the ability to think, conceive ideas, and express them freely, stating that without it, democracy is impossible, the Constitution becomes meaningless, and national security strategies fail. The article highlights a tension between the government's need to exempt certain records (like nuclear weapon designs or military plans) and the public's right to access information, suggesting that this secrecy is often excessive. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 4, 1966, is discussed as an attempt to facilitate a workable solution by allowing disclosure of previously unreleased government information. However, Fields contends that the FOIA is not effective due to "loop holes" created by exemptions, particularly an Executive order allowing anything to be kept secret if deemed in the "interest of national defense" and "properly classified." This exemption, he argues, allows for wide abuse and misuse, especially considering the vast number of people in executive branches who can classify information. The article uses the secrecy surrounding the rendition of suspected terrorist prisoners and the US Air Force's failure to respond to a FOIA request for radar records of a UFO near Stephenville, Texas, on January 8, 2008, as examples of government secrecy. Fields concludes that FOIA is ineffective if society lacks the capacity to exercise its right of access, and that exemptions must be minimized. He calls for the government to create an enabling environment for information requests and to amend FOIA to restrict exemptions. He stresses that without building openness, the "national defense" exemption risks the demise of the Constitution.

UFOs From Heaven, or Hell?

Greg Bishop, in his October 29, 2008 article, explores the dichotomy of beliefs surrounding the origin of UFOs and "space people." He notes that most enthusiasts assume they come from "the heavens," while a minority considers underground civilizations. Bishop draws a parallel to William S. Burroughs' observation about Americans seeking eternal life through Mayan pictograms, suggesting that even when thinking outside traditional religious frameworks, people often retain a subconscious Western Christian "either/or" mentality. He posits that this leads to a misguided assumption that aliens must come from either heaven or hell. The article critiques the public discourse that labels phenomena as "good or bad," arguing that such labels are insidious and misleading, especially when dealing with the unexplained. It suggests that people prefer to believe that UFOs originate from the sky, associating it with benevolent deities, unlike things from below which are perceived as bad. This contrasts with worldviews, such as those of Native American tribes, that revere the earth as a life-giving mother, with openings like the "sipapu" representing the emergence of life. Bishop emphasizes that different belief systems influence perceptions of the unexplained. He notes that people tend to assume the best, hence the sky as an origin for UFOs. He then delves into the possibility that UFOs appear because we want them to, suggesting that reports of objects disappearing into or emerging from the ground might stem from paranoid thinking, particularly in the Western mind. Bishop, along with co-author Nick, has previously argued against a simple good/evil dichotomy regarding UFOs, viewing it as a "blind alley." The article also touches upon the Mothman phenomenon and the possibility of ancient lore describing flying avatars similar to the Mothman. The book "The Silver Bridge" by Gray Barker is presented as a multi-layered work that can be interpreted in various ways, offering psychological content and social commentary, and is described as a narrative that will "haunt you forever."

Minnesota-Two Sightings Reported

This section details two UFO sightings reported by a husband and wife in Owatonna, Minnesota, in September 2008. On September 20th, around 9:00-9:15 PM, they observed a star-like object moving towards them. Initially thought to be a plane, it grew brighter as it approached, as if a spotlight were emanating from it. When it was almost directly overhead, the light dimmed, and the object disappeared within seconds. On September 24th, around 9:00 PM, they witnessed a similar event with another star-like object moving from west to east. This object also disappeared when it was almost directly above them. They noted that the objects did not seem to go past the roof of their home and that the second object did not radiate the same bright glow as the first, though it was still bright. The witnesses expressed that the experience was "freaking me out a bit" and intended to continue observing the sky around the same time in hopes of seeing a recurrence. The source is cited as ufocasebook.com.

MoD Bans Crop Circle Photos Over UFO Fears

An article by Joel Taylor from Metro, London, dated October 20, 2008, reports that the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) attempted to prevent armed forces personnel from photographing crop circles. This action was taken out of concern that UFO enthusiasts might interpret these photos as evidence of the MoD taking UFO-related activity seriously. A 1991 MoD memo is cited, stating that the "UFO lobby will see this as active investigation of UFO-related activity (as they view crop circles)." However, the Army and Navy refused the MoD's request, arguing that the officials were being "over-sensitive." The article implies that the MoD's actions were an attempt to distance themselves from any perceived validation of UFO phenomena.

UFO shows on the Discovery Channel

This brief announcement highlights two UFO-related shows on the Discovery Channel. "UFOs Over Earth," described as MUFON-centric, is the first of three episodes featuring MUFON field investigations. It was scheduled to air on November 3rd at 11 PM CST and November 15th at 7 PM, with other episodes airing later in November. "UFO Hunters" premiered on Wednesday night, October 29th, at 9 PM, and was expected to air every Wednesday for a period.

The Silver Bridge Returns!

This book review by Nick Redfern, posted on his blog at UFO Mystic.Com on October 6, 2008, announces the re-publication of Gray Barker's classic book, "The Silver Bridge." The book, originally published with an ISBN of 978-1-4392-0427-6 by Metadisc in Seattle, Washington, focuses on the Mothman controversy and the strange events preceding the collapse of the "Silver Bridge" in Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia, in 1967, which killed nearly 50 people. The review clarifies that the book is not solely about the bridge collapse but also about the Mothman, the "hypnotic bird-man" that terrorized the Ohio and Kanawha Valleys in 1966. It describes the book as a "dramatic, emotional docudrama." The review also mentions the possibility of exploring Woody Derenberger's encounter with "Indrid Cold." Redfern suggests that Barker's work is a new genre, exploring ancient lore about flying avatars similar to the Mothman, such as the Garuda, Thunderbird, and Piasa. The review states that "The Silver Bridge" is multi-layered, offering "deep psychological content" and "social commentary," and predicts it will be a haunting read. The 2008 edition includes new introductions by ufology legends Alan Greenfield and Jim Moseley, and a foreword by paranormal researcher Andy Colvin, known as "The Mothman's Photographer."

Paradigm Research Group PRG Media Notice - October 27, 2008

This notice from Paradigm Research Group (PRG) announces the progress of the "Million Fax on Washington" initiative. This project aims to send one million letters, faxes, and emails to the President Elect's office, calling for formal acknowledgement of the extraterrestrial presence early in the next administration. The initiative has gained traction, moving from zero Google and Yahoo search returns to significant numbers since October 1st. An "Open Letter to Barack Obama and John McCain" has been circulated online, and interest is spreading internationally. Stephen Bassett, PRG executive director, is available for interviews. Contact information is provided: [email protected] and 202-215-8344.

Hacker Gary McKinnon to be extradited to US within days

This article by Ian Grant, dated October 13, 2008, reports on the impending extradition of self-confessed hacker Gary McKinnon to the US. McKinnon's final appeal in Britain to avoid trial was denied, and he is expected to be extradited to face charges for "the greatest military hack in history." His lawyers, Kaim Todner, stated that the Secretary of State had advised that arrangements for his extradition would be made, despite McKinnon's diagnosis with Asperger's Syndrome. The lawyers are seeking permission for a judicial review of the extradition decision. McKinnon is described as "devastated" and suffering from depression. He has exhausted all available appeal courts in the UK and Europe.

Minnesota MUFON

This section provides contact information for the Minnesota MUFON chapter, including State Director Richard Moss, Assistant State Directors Lorna Hunter and Bill McNeff, and Journal Editor Joel Henry. It lists phone numbers, email addresses ([email protected]), and a website (www.mnmufon.org). It also mentions MUFONET, a radio net, and the National MUFON Hotline for reporting UFO news. The Minnesota MUFON Journal (MMJ) is described as a free PDF publication available via email request or download from the website. Instructions are given for sharing the journal with those without internet access, emphasizing that it should not be charged for. Submissions for news or editorial contributions should be directed to the Editor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Minnesota MUFON Journal consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial encounters, and related government secrecy. A recurring theme is the perceived ineffectiveness of government transparency mechanisms, particularly the Freedom of Information Act, in obtaining information about UFOs. The journal also explores the psychological and societal aspects of belief systems surrounding the unexplained, questioning simplistic dichotomies of good versus evil. There is a clear editorial stance advocating for greater openness and disclosure regarding UFOs and extraterrestrial life, as evidenced by the promotion of initiatives like "Million Fax on Washington" and the coverage of lobbying efforts. The journal also highlights the intersection of UFOs with national security concerns and the legal ramifications of hacking related to government data. The publication serves as a platform for reporting sightings, reviewing relevant books and shows, and disseminating information from organizations like MUFON.