MUFON Minnesota Journal - No 159

Magazine Overview

Title: MUFON Minnesota Journal
Issue: #159
Date: January/February 2013
Publisher: MUFON (Mutual UFO Network)

This issue of the MUFON Minnesota Journal delves into a variety of topics, from personal spiritual experiences and the intersection of UFOs with religion, to scientific investigations into cryptids and the cultural impact of prophecies.

The CE4 Corner

The issue opens with "The CE4 Corner" by Craig R. Lang, reflecting on the period around December 21, 2012. Lang discusses the "end of the world" prophecies, the rapid changes occurring globally, and the significance of 'magic' dates and synchronicity. He notes that while many experienced fear, the event passed without physical disaster, highlighting humanity's power to choose its path. Lang shares his experience conducting a meditation workshop on change and choice in Wyoming, MN, and observes a rise in people reporting synchronicities like seeing repeating numbers (11:11, 9:11) or experiencing coincidental events.

An Estimate of the Situation

William I. McNeff's article, "An Estimate of the Situation," addresses the intersection of UFOs and religion. McNeff, identifying as a Christian with an evolving philosophy, emphasizes that personal experience and testimony form the basis for religious texts and MUFON's data. He discusses Gordon Novel's work on back-engineered ET technology and Novel's views on a "God" who has instructed ETs not to make full contact yet. Novel believes full contact will occur in two to five years and expresses a negative view of God due to human deaths. McNeff contrasts this with the near-death experience (NDE) of Howard Storm, an atheist art professor who, after a near-fatal illness in Paris in 1985, experienced a profound spiritual encounter. Storm described a life review, encounters with "light beings" (angels), and received answers to his questions about the Bible, religion, and life on other planets. The light beings told Storm that the best religion is the one that brings one closest to God and that the universe is full of life, with some beings visiting Earth but not interfering.

Near-Death Experiences and Spiritual Truths

McNeff continues by discussing Dr. Eben Alexander's NDE, detailed in "Proof of Heaven." Alexander, a neurosurgeon who experienced brain death due to bacterial meningitis, also reported seeing "beings of light" and received similar spiritual messages as Storm: God's unconditional love, the purpose of spiritual growth, and the universe's primary characteristic being love. Both Alexander and Storm emphasize that God is personal and that evil is a consequence of free will. McNeff finds both witnesses credible and highlights their shared emphasis on love and spiritual growth. He suggests that if these spiritual truths are valid, some extraterrestrial intelligences might subscribe to them, while others may engage in space travel for selfish reasons, though a space confederation is believed to keep evil species in check.

Religious Perspectives on Extraterrestrials

The article explores how various religions view extraterrestrials. Some branches of Islam acknowledge intelligent beings on other worlds. The Roman Catholic Church, through figures like Father Jose Gabriel Funes, has stated that the existence of intelligent extraterrestrials poses no problem to Catholic theology. Conversely, The Church of God International (Tyler, Texas) asserts that UFOs and extraterrestrials are demonic manifestations, a view McNeff disputes, citing the existence of physical evidence in UFO cases and the possibility of interplanetary travel.

The Mayan Calendar and Global Crises

An article titled "Glad to See We Are All Alive" by Mitch By Earth Changes Media discusses the cultural reactions to the end of the Mayan calendar cycle on December 21, 2012. While some predicted apocalypse, the day was largely marked by celebrations at Mayan sites like Chichen Itza, with thousands participating in rituals and expressing hope for a new era. The article notes that end-of-the-world paranoia had spread globally, leading to school cancellations and rumors. Experts like Bob McMillan and Bill Leith confirmed no imminent astronomical threats. The article also touches upon global crises such as climate change, food, financial, and proliferation crises, suggesting these could either divide or unite humanity. Avaaz, an international organization, is mentioned for its message of realizing collective power for positive change.

Bigfoot DNA Study and Sasquatch

"'BIGFOOT' DNA SEQUENCED IN UPCOMING GENETICS STUDY" reports on a five-year study led by Dr. Melba S. Ketchum, which claims to have sequenced Sasquatch nuclear genomes and found evidence of a hybrid species. The study suggests Sasquatch is a human relative that arose approximately 15,000 years ago as a hybrid of modern Homo sapiens with an unknown primate species. The nuDNA is described as a novel, unknown hominin, distinct from Neanderthals and Denisovans. Ketchum calls for the recognition of Sasquatch as an indigenous people.

Scientist Seeks Proof of Sasquatch

Another article, "Scientist Sets Out to Prove Sasquatch's Existence via Blimp" by Melissa Locker, details Jeffrey Meldrum's "Falcon Project." Meldrum, an anthropologist and author, is attempting to prove Bigfoot's existence using a remote-controlled blimp equipped with thermal imaging. He needs to raise over $300,000 in private donations for the project, which has received support from the University of Idaho. The article also mentions a conference in Russia where scientists claimed 95% certainty of Yeti's existence.

'Dark Skies' Film Trailer

"'Dark Skies' Trailer Answers the All-Important Question: 'What Would Happen If E.T. Were Evil?'" by Nathan Adams reviews a film trailer that explores the terrifying scenario of an alien occupation. The movie, starring Keri Russell and Josh Hamilton, depicts a suburban family tormented by extraterrestrials, featuring phenomena like bird swarms, strange marks, and mind control.

UFOLOGY: EYEWITNESSES AND SCIENCE

Bill McNeff's "UFOLOGY: EYEWITNESSES AND SCIENCE" discusses the reliability of eyewitness testimony in UFO research. McNeff argues against the flat assertion that eyewitness accounts are inherently unreliable, stating that much of MUFON's data is based on such testimony. He explains that while biases exist, consistent descriptions from thousands of witnesses can be analyzed statistically to identify patterns, such as the shape and size of craft or the appearance of beings. McNeff defines science as a systematic enterprise for testable explanations and predictions, and argues that detailed eyewitness accounts, when analyzed systematically, can provide valuable data points for scientific inquiry, even if the origin of the phenomena (earthly or extraterrestrial) remains undetermined.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the exploration of spiritual and personal transformation, the potential intersection of UFO phenomena with religious beliefs, and the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena and cryptids. The journal appears to maintain an open-minded stance towards unconventional topics, presenting various perspectives and research findings, while also emphasizing the importance of critical analysis and scientific methodology in understanding these phenomena. There's a clear interest in personal testimonies, NDEs, and the broader implications of extraterrestrial life and consciousness.

This issue of the Minnesota MUFON Journal, dated December 5, 2012, focuses on UFO sightings, secret space programs, and the organizations involved in their investigation. The publication is presented as a FREE PDF document available online.

Article 1: Eyewitness Account from Lakeville

The issue begins with an account of a UFO sighting that occurred in Lakeville, Minnesota, in October 2000. The witness, a mother, and her 18-year-old son observed an object shaped like a "boomerang and triangle mix" hovering silently at an altitude of about 40 feet for approximately 3-4 minutes. The craft made no noise, and the experience was described as feeling "like being in a vacuum." The witness initially hesitated to report the sighting, fearing ridicule, but felt compelled to do so years later. The author notes that this description aligns with other accounts of "unnatural stillness" associated with UFOs. The article also promotes the book "Extraterrestrial Odyssey," co-authored by Roger J. Kvande, Craig R. Lang, and the article's author, which is described as the third edition of "Message For Earth" and primarily features the testimony of a single eyewitness.

The author emphasizes the importance of evaluating the witness's character, honesty, intelligence, and reliability. He states that the witness in this case measures up extremely well and that the account is consistent with the broader UFO/ET phenomenon and the current scientific paradigm, even when extending beyond present knowledge.

Nick Redfern is quoted in a review of UFO books, highlighting the importance of eyewitness accounts. The author expresses his belief that Roger Kvande is an "eyewitness par excellence" and that "Extraterrestrial Odyssey" has significant potential value, despite not expecting it to be a commercial success.

Article 2: Solar Warden - The Secret Space Program

This section, authored by Darren Perks and dated December 7, 2012, discusses the alleged "Solar Warden" secret space fleet, which is claimed to have been in operation since approximately 1980, unknown to the public. The author conducted research, including a Freedom of Information (FOI) request with the Department of Defense (DoD) in 2010, which yielded an unexpected response. A NASA representative informed him that "Solar Warden" was a terminated program, not a joint program with the DoD, and directed him to the Johnson Space Center FOIA Manager. The program is said to operate under both US Government and United Nations authority.

The article mentions Gary McKinnon, who allegedly hacked into U.S. Space Command computers and uncovered information about "non-terrestrial officers" and "fleet-to-fleet transfers" related to "Solar Warden." McKinnon faced charges from the Bush Justice Department, but his extradition to the U.S. has not proceeded, partly because a trial would involve testifying to classified facts.

McKinnon also reportedly found details about the craft within Solar Warden, including eight cigar-shaped motherships and 43 smaller scout ships. The fleet is said to operate under the US Naval Network and Space Operations Command (NNSOC) and involves approximately 300 personnel. The program is allegedly made up of U.S. aerospace Black Projects contractors, with contributions from Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Austria, Russia, and Australia, and is tested from secret bases like Area 51.

The author concludes that Solar Warden is a "very real and a very strong possibility" and not to be dismissed as nonsense, acknowledging its conspiratorial nature due to the hype and controversy surrounding it. He believes the program is highly sensitive and would significantly alter global perspectives on space exploration.

Article 3: All MUFON and FAA Reported UFO Cases Deferred to Bigelow Aerospace

Authored by Jonny Phoenix and dated December 5, 2012, this article investigates the claim that Bigelow Aerospace is involved in reverse-engineering alien technology. It highlights a 2010 FAA directive that deferred all FAA UFO reports to Bigelow Aerospace, raising eyebrows in the UFO investigative community. MUFON and the FAA have reportedly been bottlenecked in their efforts to obtain information on UFO and alien technologies, with the funnel leading to Robert Bigelow.

The article mentions Jesse Ventura confronting Robert Bigelow regarding this matter in Utah, following an investigation by Ventura's "Tru TV" crew into Bigelow's "Skinwalker Ranch." This facility in Northeastern Utah is owned by Bigelow and is reportedly the site of a human murder during an encounter with aliens, where one of Bigelow's security agents was allegedly killed.

Robert Bigelow has reportedly offered MUFON a $750,000 grant to access their database. Bigelow Aerospaces' mission statement since 1999 has been to provide affordable spaceflight options, and they have launched orbiting prototypes like Genesis I and Genesis II, with plans to expand the usable space of the International Space Station (ISS) using patented expandable habitats.

Alfred Webre is cited, stating that Robert Bigelow's space enterprises have officially reached into the FAA UFO reporting structure. A February 11, 2010, directive from the Federal Aviation Administration to the FAA Air Traffic Organization instructed pilots and individuals to report UFO sightings to a designated center, specifically mentioning Bigelow Aerospace Advanced Space Studies (BAASS).

Dr. Colm A. Kelleher, BAASS Deputy Administrator, confirmed that BAASS has an office to receive UFO reports, describing the volume as "infrequent" and stating that BAASS receives no FAA funds for this service. The article also notes the relationship between the for-profit BAASS organization and the non-profit MUFON, which has approximately 2500 members.

The FAA video, which reportedly has been removed from the FAA website, illustrated the penetration of Bigelow's enterprises into the FAA's UFO reporting mandate. The mention of BAASS in FAA manuals follows a reported mention of a predecessor organization, the National Institute for Discovery Science (NIDS), also founded by Bigelow.

One source speculates that these mentions are due to Bigelow's connections within the aerospace industry and the FAA. The FAA's removal of the UFO video is attributed to the "can of worms" it opened, especially after other UFO reporting organizations registered complaints.

Article 4: BAASS and MUFON: A Hybrid Partnership Under Review - The Thesis

This section details the "Star Team Impact Project" (SIP), a hybrid partnership between BAASS and MUFON. The agreement aimed to conduct investigations into cases involving physical effects of UFOs, sightings of "living beings," or "reality transformation." Investigations were limited to cases with paid stipends of $100 per day, with travel expenses covered. The project was initially funded for one year, with an option to renew for a second year. Investigators were required to demonstrate their skills on routine sightings before being considered for SIP. Bigelow was also contracting up to fifty scientists to be on-site within 24 hours of significant UFO incidents.

Dr. Kelleher and Mark Easter expressed satisfaction with the operations and communication in 2009, and hoped for good relations in 2010. However, the BAASS-MUFON hybrid agreement was under temporary suspension pending a review. The article suggests that a clash of corporate and non-profit cultures, rather than any wrongdoing, triggered the suspension. Both parties reportedly wanted to continue the arrangement.

Robert Bigelow is also mentioned as having plans to inhabit the moon and create vacation facilities there.

Sighting Report: CMS Case No. 43438

This section details a sighting from Lakeville, Dakota Co., MN, reported on October 21, 2012, but occurring on October 1, 2000. The witness, along with her son, observed a "flying boomerang shape, white lights flat against the craft. Not search lights -- 7 lights under the wings." The craft hovered at about 40-50 feet above them for 3-4 minutes, then moved southeast, "flew backwards," and ascended rapidly. The craft made no noise, and the witness described it as "like being in a vacuum." The witness expressed mixed feelings but felt compelled to report it after years of reflection.

Article 5: View from Below Craft

This section includes a sketch of a UFO with lights visible from below, resembling a double-wide object with lights on the bottom of the wings. This sketch is presented in relation to the Lakeville sighting.

MUFON Minnesota Contact Information

This section provides contact details for MUFON Minnesota, including the State Director, Assistant State Director, Field Investigation Coordinator, Journal Editor, and a National MUFON Hotline number for reporting UFO news and sightings. It also provides web page addresses for MUFON Minnesota and the Minnesota MUFON Journal (MMJ), noting that the MMJ is a free PDF publication.

Conclusion

The issue concludes with a statement from William McNeff, Chief Invest. MUFON Minnesota, stating that the Lakeville sighting "must be considered to be an unidentified vehicle."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, eyewitness testimony, secret government programs (particularly Solar Warden), and the role of organizations like MUFON and Bigelow Aerospace in investigating and disseminating information. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into these phenomena, giving credence to eyewitness accounts and exploring the possibility of advanced, possibly non-terrestrial, technology and programs operating outside public knowledge. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of eyewitness testimony and the challenges of verifying and investigating such claims, while also acknowledging the potential for government secrecy and corporate influence in the field.