MUFON New Jersey Chronicle - Vol 03 No 03 - 1993 01-03

Magazine Overview

This issue of THE NEW JERSEY CHRONICLE, dated January-February-March 1993, is published by the Mutual UFO Network, Inc. (MUFON). The cover headline emphasizes its role in covering the state for MUFON. The issue features a lead article, "A Critique of Budd Hopkins' Case of the UFO Abduction of Linda Napolitano," presented as a blockbuster expose by veteran investigators Joseph J. Stefula, Richard D. Butler, and George P. Hansen. This is the first part of a two-part series.

Editor's Note

The Editor's Note explains that the package containing information about Budd Hopkins' "case of the century" was received in January, and due to the controversy surrounding it, the readership should be kept informed. This issue presents the first part of the critique, and reader comments are encouraged.

Lead Article: A Critique of Budd Hopkins' Case of the UFO Abduction of Linda Napolitano

Abstract

The abstract introduces Linda Napolitano, the primary abductee, who claims to have been abducted by extraterrestrials in November 1989 from her Manhattan apartment. It mentions multiple witnesses, including one who allegedly saw her and alien beings float out of a window into a craft, and another who observed the event from the Brooklyn Bridge. Alleged witness Javier Perez de Cuellar is also mentioned. Linda reportedly experienced nose bleeds, and an X-ray allegedly shows an implant in her nose. The abstract notes that Hopkins has not provided a full, detailed written report, relying instead on short articles and presentations. The authors have identified a science fiction novel that may have influenced the case's elements and discuss curious behavior from prominent ufologists involved, including attempts to suppress evidence.

Budd Hopkins' Role in Ufology

The article details Budd Hopkins' significant role in drawing attention to the extraterrestrial abduction experience. It highlights his books ("Missing Time," "Intruders"), the establishment of the Intruders Foundation, and his numerous media appearances. Despite not being a trained therapist, academic, or scientist, Hopkins has involved professionals like Dr. John Mack, a Pulitzer Prize winner and former head of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Hopkins has also collaborated on articles in "Unusual Personal Experiences" and testified as an expert witness. His work on behalf of abductees has made him a highly visible figure in the field.

The Linda Napolitano Case Details

The case involves Linda Napolitano, who lives in a high-rise apartment in lower Manhattan. It is claimed that three witnesses in a car observed Linda and three ET aliens emerge from her window and ascend into a craft. Another witness, driving across the Brooklyn Bridge, also allegedly saw the event. The case has garnered international attention, being discussed in major publications like The Wall Street Journal, Omni, Paris Match, and The New York Times. Linda and Hopkins appeared on "Inside Edition." The Mufon UFO Journal labeled it "The Abduction Case of the Century."

The Authors' Involvement

Joseph J. Stefula, Richard D. Butler, and George P. Hansen learned of the case before Hopkins publicized it and decided to monitor its progress. They became concerned about the long-term effect the case might have on abduction research. Richard Butler had attended Hopkins' informal meetings for abductees and researchers. Stefula met Linda and discussed her experiences. They offered assistance and contacts in law enforcement. Linda requested a meeting with Butler and Stefula in February 1992, providing more details but asking them not to inform Hopkins. At the 1992 MUFON convention, Stefula noted contradictions in Hopkins' and Linda's presentations compared to what Linda had told him and Butler earlier. Hopkins declined to meet with the authors initially, citing his book manuscript, but eventually agreed to a meeting on October 3, 1992.

Summary of Case Events

The summary relies on Hopkins' and Linda's presentations, interviews, and articles. In April 1989, Linda wrote to Hopkins about a bump next to her nose examined by a physician who insisted she had had nasal surgery, which she denied. Hopkins became interested due to potential medical evidence. Linda began attending Hopkins' support group. On November 30, 1989, Linda reported being abducted, remembering floating out of her apartment window into a craft. Later, Hopkins received a letter from "Richard and Dan," claiming to be undercover police officers who witnessed the abduction. They expressed concern for Linda's well-being. Linda later reported being visited by these individuals, who identified themselves as police officers. They expressed relief that she was alive but were reluctant to meet with Hopkins. Richard later took a leave of absence due to emotional trauma. Dan eventually revealed they were not police officers but security officers for a VIP who also witnessed the event.

The Kidnappings

Linda claimed that in April 1991, she was kidnapped by Richard and Dan, interrogated about aliens, and forced to remove her shoes for examination. She recalled the license plate numbers of vehicles involved, which Hopkins traced to "agencies." Linda stated the kidnapping was legal due to national security. In February 1992, she met with Butler and Stefula, detailing further kidnappings. On October 15, 1991, Dan accosted her, took her to a beach house, and demanded she wear a white nightgown. He spoke incoherently, and she fled after he forced her head underwater. She later discovered stationery with a CIA letterhead.

Further Contacts with Richard and Dan

In February 1991, Linda met Richard, who spoke of Dan's deteriorating mental condition. She received a card and letter from Dan, who claimed to be in a mental institution and expressed a romantic interest, suggesting kidnapping and marriage. Linda also reported attempts by a man driving a black sedan with UN license plates to contact her near the South Street Seaport.

The Third Man

Linda mentioned that Hopkins received a letter from "the third man" (the VIP), who warned Hopkins to stop searching for him due to potential harm to world peace. Linda indicated that aliens were involved in ending the Cold War. It was later revealed that the third man was Javier Perez de Cuellar, then Secretary General of the United Nations. Vehicles used in the alleged kidnappings were traced to UN missions.

Witness on the Brooklyn Bridge

In the summer of 1991, Hopkins received a letter from Janet Kimble (pseudonym), a retired telephone operator. She reported seeing a brightly lit object over a building on the Brooklyn Bridge at 3:16 a.m. on November 30, 1989. She saw four figures emerge from a window and ascend into the craft. She was frightened and stated she would never return to New York City.

The Nasal X-ray

In November 1991, a doctor took an X-ray of Linda's head due to her persistent complaints about a nasal implant. The X-ray revealed a sizeable, non-natural object with a shaft and curly-cue wire structure. Hopkins showed this X-ray during presentations.

Other Unusual Aspects of the Case

Linda believed she was under surveillance and mentioned a silver-gray van parked near her apartment. She claimed to have been a professional singer who lost her voice. She also suggested her blood might be unusual due to alien influence and wondered if she was part alien. Linda had an agreement with Budd Hopkins to split profits from a book on the case.

Initial Problems with the Case

The article raises several immediate doubts about the case's credibility. The three alleged principal corroborating witnesses (Richard, Dan, and Perez de Cuellar) have not been interviewed face-to-face by Hopkins, despite the time elapsed. Richard and Dan refuse to speak directly with Hopkins, and no hard evidence confirms their existence. They contacted Hopkins before visiting Linda, which is questioned. The woman on the bridge only contacted Hopkins, not other investigators. Questions about her background and relationship with Linda remain unaddressed. The article notes that Dan has spent time in a mental institution and Richard suffered emotional distress, yet they were allegedly allowed to drive cars with UN license plates. The identity of the doctor who took the X-ray is unknown, and no formal report is available. The authors speculate that Linda may have staged the X-ray with a technician. Linda's refusal to contact the police, even after Hopkins' urging, and her question about legally shooting Dan, raise further credibility issues.

Our Investigation

Stefula, Butler, and Hansen visited the site of the alleged abduction in Manhattan. The apartment complex had a guarded courtyard, and the security guard and supervisor reported hearing nothing about a UFO encounter. The apartment manager also had no knowledge of the sighting. They visited the area under the FDR drive where Richard and Dan purportedly parked their car. An employee of the New York Post stated the loading dock was in use most of the night. The former loading dock manager confirmed the dock was in use until 5:00 a.m. and knew nothing of a UFO sighting nearby. A colleague contacted the Downtown Heliport, which reported no helicopter movements on the night of the alleged abduction. The heliport authorities had previously been approached by a man inquiring about a UFO crashing into the East River.

The Meeting of October 3

During a meeting with Hopkins, David Jacobs, Walter H. Andrus, and Jerome Clark, questions were raised. Hopkins admitted he had not asked the apartment complex guards about the UFO, despite its brightness. He also felt it unnecessary to verify Linda's claim about police canvassing. He did not know the weather conditions on the night of the abduction, which the authors consider a significant oversight for an investigator.

From the Editor's Desk (Page 2)

The editor expresses excitement for the New Year and introduces the lead story as a "bang." He highlights the article by Stefula, Butler, and Hansen as a critique of the "Case of the Century." Other items mentioned include a State Director's Message from George A. Filer, a report from Sue Van Slooten on a North Jersey MUFON meeting, letters to the editor including one from George Filer about a police chief's sighting, a review of the movie "Fire in The Sky" by Richard D. Seifried, a retrospective on "1992: The UFO Year in Review" by the Fund for UFO Research, and information on obtaining a video. The editor also notes sightings in Asbury, Secaucus, and Carlstadt, New Jersey, and a report from Tom Benson on the Metro-DC MUFON UFO Conference. Paul Ferrughelli's statistical analysis of UFO sightings is mentioned, as is a hypothetical book review of "Manhattan Transfer" by Dr. Willy Smith.

Bits and Piece's section includes articles on a secret U.S. spy plane and astronomical findings. Upcoming events mentioned are a UFO museum in Orlando, Florida, UFO Conferences, and a July 5th march on Washington. The next issue will feature the conclusion of the Stefula, Butler, Hansen critique, an investigation into Men in Black (MIBs), and more.

In This Issue (Page 2)

A table of contents lists the articles: "A Critique of Budd Hopkin's Case of the UFO Abduction of Linda Napolitano," "From the Editor's Desk," "State Director's Message," "North Jersey MUFON Meeting a Success," "Letters to the Editor," "Fire in The Sky"...A Fictional Movie," "1992: The UFO Year in Review," "Video Information Notice," "Investigative Reports," "An Inside View...Metro-DC MUFON UFO Conference," "National Sighting Research Center Update...UFO Descriptions- Part 2," and "The Book Rack....Manhattan Transfer."

State Director's Message (Page 3)

George A. Filer, the new State Director for MUFON, expresses his belief that this is an important time for UFO study due to the new administration, evidence of the Roswell crash, and new photographs/videos of craft. He thanks Joe Stefula for his work as former state director and notes that Paul Makuch (editor) and Susan Van Slooten (Assistant State Director) will continue. Filer aims to utilize the talent within the New Jersey membership to solve the UFO enigma and seeks ideas and help. Initial concepts include establishing a reporting network with a new hotline (800-752-8049), notifying investigators of sightings, training more investigators, publishing a NJ UFO book with multiple authors, and holding conferences. He seeks volunteers for various positions.

Historic Research

Filer, a retired Air Force intelligence officer, believes UFOs exist based on personal experience. He suggests that the public knows more about UFOs than contemporaries in the military and can educate them. He notes the potential for a more sympathetic military ear due to proposed defense cuts. He advises focusing on sightings, then crashes, and then abductions, using credentials of experts like Dr. John Mack and David Jacobs.

North Jersey MUFON Meeting a Success (Page 3)

Sue VanSlooten reports on a successful January 23rd meeting with new members. Two female members shared similar abduction experiences. Paul Ferrughelli presented his statistical analysis of sightings up through 1991. The meeting included a viewing of a videotape on sightings in Mexico City during a total eclipse, which led to a major UFO flap. The report encourages attendance at future meetings.

Letters to the Editor (Page 4)

Paul writes about an interview with Chief Salvatore Casale of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, who reported a giant UFO sighting over his home. The Chief described the craft flying very low, causing his house to shake, and noted that the Air Force could not explain the flight characteristics. He believes it was experimental or extraterrestrial. The Chief is averaging several sighting calls per night. George A. Filer signs off, encouraging more articles on the subject.

"Fire In The Sky"...A Fiction Movie (Page 4)

Richard D. Seifried reviews the movie "Fire in The Sky." He criticizes the portrayal of the abduction sequence, finding the physical characteristics of the UFO and the interior of the craft to be offensive and exaggerated. He believes the movie's depiction of aliens and their instruments presents a horror beyond human tolerance. Seifried argues that the movie instills fear of abduction experiences and aids debunkers like Phil Klass and Carl Sagan, hindering the search for truth. He strongly recommends against seeing the movie. The editor notes this article originally appeared in the Oklahoma MUFONEWS.

1992: THE UFO YEAR IN REVIEW (Page 5)

This section reviews the 45th year of the "UFO Era." It notes the continued mystery of UFOs, stonewalling by the U.S. Government, and hundreds of reported "alien abductions." The approximate number of UFO sightings in 1992 is impossible to estimate due to fear of ridicule. Most reported sightings were "low grade." Government activity is discussed, with the U.S. Government maintaining it has no interest in UFOs since Project Blue Book, while off-the-record comments suggest otherwise. No new UFO crashes were reported, but interest in older cases like Roswell and Pennsylvania remains high. The official line on the Roswell incident is that nothing happened. The "alien abductions" aspect is highlighted as bizarre, with estimates suggesting one percent of Americans may have experienced it. A survey by the Roper Organization is mentioned. A conference for mental health professionals was held. Projects supported by the Fund for UFO Research include studies by Thomas Bullard and the expansion of a referral service. Crop formations are discussed, with the possibility of a link to UFOs remaining high. Hundreds more formations were found in 1992.

Attention Chronicle Subscribers (Page 5)

A notice to subscribers about renewal, encouraging them to renew their subscription for $15.00 per year.

"Critique" continued from page 1 (Page 6)

This section continues the critique of the Napolitano case. It mentions a technical magazine "ADVANCE for Radiologic Science Professionals" that carried a discussion of Linda's nasal implant. Budd Hopkins is quoted as stating that this case is "probably the most important case I've ever run into in my life" and "virtually immeasurable" for supporting the objective reality of UFO abductions and the accuracy of regressive hypnosis. The authors detail their involvement, including meeting with Linda and noting contradictions in her statements to them versus her presentations with Hopkins. They attempted to resolve these matters with Hopkins, who initially declined but eventually met with the authors.

Summary of Case (Page 6)

This section reiterates the sources used for the case summary. It details Linda Napolitano's initial contact with Hopkins in April 1989 regarding a nasal bump. Her abduction experience on November 30, 1989, is described, including floating out of her window into a craft. The arrival of "Richard and Dan" is mentioned, who claimed to be police officers and expressed concern for Linda.

The Kidnappings (Page 7)

Linda claimed to have been kidnapped by Richard and Dan in April 1991, interrogated about aliens, and examined for ET characteristics. She recalled vehicle license plate numbers that Hopkins traced. Linda stated the kidnapping was legal due to national security. She further detailed incidents on October 15, 1991, where Dan accosted her, took her to a beach house, and subjected her to bizarre behavior and threats. She fled and later found CIA stationery.

Further Contacts with Richard and Dan (Page 8)

Linda reported meeting Richard in November 1991, who spoke of Dan's mental condition. She received a letter from Dan claiming to be in a mental institution and expressing romantic interest, suggesting kidnapping and marriage. She also reported attempts by a man in a black sedan with UN license plates to contact her.

The Third Man (Page 8)

Linda mentioned a letter from "the third man" (the VIP), warning Hopkins to stop searching for him. This individual was later identified as Javier Perez de Cuellar, then UN Secretary General. Linda suggested aliens were involved in ending the Cold War. Vehicles used in the alleged kidnappings were traced to UN missions.

Witness on the Brooklyn Bridge (Page 8)

Janet Kimble (pseudonym) wrote to Hopkins about seeing a brightly lit object over a building on the Brooklyn Bridge on November 30, 1989. She observed figures emerge from a window and ascend into the craft. She was frightened and avoided returning to New York City.

"Critique" continued from page 7 (Page 8)

This section continues the narrative of the Brooklyn Bridge witness and then transitions to the nasal X-ray. The witness's fear and her actions to determine the time are described. Hopkins interviewed her, and she claimed to have obtained his name from a bookstore. She was reticent about speaking of the incident.

The Nasal X-ray (Page 9)

In November 1991, a doctor took an X-ray of Linda's head due to her complaints about a nasal implant. The X-ray revealed a sizeable, non-natural object with a shaft and curly-cue wire structure. Hopkins has shown this X-ray during presentations.

Other Unusual Aspects of the Case (Page 9)

Linda believed she was under surveillance, mentioned a silver-gray van, and claimed to have been a professional singer who lost her voice. She suggested her blood might be unusual due to alien influence and wondered if she was part alien. She had an agreement with Budd Hopkins to split profits from a book on the case.

Initial Problems with the Case (Page 9)

The article lists several problems raising doubts about the case's credibility. Key witnesses (Richard, Dan, Perez de Cuellar) have not been interviewed by Hopkins. Richard and Dan refuse direct contact, and their existence is unconfirmed. Their delay in contacting Hopkins and Linda is questioned. The Brooklyn Bridge witness's sole contact with Hopkins is noted. Questions about her background and relationship with Linda are raised. The mental health issues of Richard and Dan are mentioned, contrasted with their alleged ability to drive cars with UN plates. The doctor who took the X-ray is unidentified, and no formal report exists. The authors suggest Linda may have staged the X-ray. Linda's refusal to contact the police, despite Hopkins' urging, and her question about shooting Dan, are highlighted as significant credibility issues.

Our Investigation (Page 10)

Stefula, Butler, and Hansen visited the abduction site in Manhattan. They found the apartment complex to be secure, with guards and the manager reporting no knowledge of a UFO sighting. They investigated the area under the FDR drive where "Richard and Dan" purportedly parked, finding the New York Post loading dock was active at night. The Downtown Heliport reported no helicopter movements on the night of the alleged abduction. The heliport had previously been contacted by a man inquiring about a UFO crash.

The Meeting of October 3 (Page 10)

The authors met with Hopkins, David Jacobs, Walter H. Andrus, and Jerome Clark. Hopkins admitted not asking the apartment guards about the UFO and not feeling it necessary to verify Linda's claims about police canvassing. He was unaware of the weather conditions on the night of the abduction, which the authors consider a significant lapse in investigative procedure.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the critical examination of UFO phenomena and alleged encounters, particularly the Linda Napolitano abduction case. The editorial stance is one of skepticism and rigorous investigation, emphasizing the need for verifiable evidence and credible witnesses. The magazine aims to provide a platform for detailed analysis and questioning of prominent cases and figures within ufology, encouraging reader participation and critical thinking. The issue also touches upon broader UFO topics like government activity, crop formations, and the historical "UFO Era."

This issue of the New Jersey UFO Chronicle, dated November 1992 (Volume 3, No. 3), presents a critical examination of UFO-related topics, including an in-depth review of Budd Hopkins' book 'Manhattan Transfer,' an investigation into a potential secret US spy plane, statistical analysis of UFO sightings, and new astronomical discoveries about star birth.

Investigative Reports

The Linda Napolitano Abduction Case: A Critique of 'Manhattan Transfer'

The issue features a hypothetical book review by Dr. Willey Smith of Budd Hopkins' 'Manhattan Transfer,' a book that claims to present an abduction case with irreproachable independent witnesses and substantial physical evidence. The review, however, is highly critical, suggesting the book fails to live up to its billing. Smith points out several issues, including:

• Lack of Definition of the Abductee: While pseudonyms are used for privacy, the review argues that a lack of detail about the witness (Linda) makes it difficult to evaluate her credibility. Linda is described as an ordinary housewife, fortyish, with two children, and a night-working husband.
• Lack of Substance of the Witnesses: The review questions the credibility of the alleged witnesses: two unidentified police officers (Dan and Richard) who later turned out to be agents of an unnamed intelligence agency, and a political figure (rumored to be Javier Perez de Cuellar) who has not come forward. A former telephone operator who reported unusual events on the Brooklyn Bridge is also discussed, but her testimony is deemed suspect, and her absence from a MUFON Symposium is noted as suspicious.
• Incongruencies: The review highlights several oddities, including the handling of X-rays which allegedly showed a spiral object, and the uncharacteristic behavior of the supposed officers who did not report the incident or check on Linda's disappearance. The story of Dan ending up in a mental institution and writing a rambling love letter to Linda is also mentioned.
• The Witness on the Bridge: The former telephone operator's reaction to seeing unusual events on the Brooklyn Bridge is questioned; she thought it was a movie being made but was also terrified, yet chose to report to Hopkins later rather than the authorities.
• Absence of Witnesses Galore: The review notes the lack of additional reports of unusual EM effects or witnesses from Linda's building or other cars on the bridge, suggesting the event might have been staged.

The review concludes that while the book is well-written and entertaining, it lacks substance. It suggests that Hopkins may be an obsessed individual or charlatan spreading distorted fantasies, possibly through hypnosis, a discipline in which he is not qualified. The review dismisses the idea of 'professional debunkers,' stating that all are persons with an interest in the UFO phenomenon.

Video Information Notice

A notice provides information about a video tape titled "Messengers of Destiny" shown at a Northern New Jersey MUFON meeting, with details on how to obtain copies.

Sighting Reports in Northern New Jersey

This section details several UFO sightings:

• Asbury, N.J. (November 27th, approx. 5:40 p.m.): Mary reported a large bright light pursuing her car to her house. Preliminary investigations suggested it could be a UFO or a 4x4 truck with a spotlight. Another witness reported strange lights in the same area.
• Secaucus, New Jersey (December 2, approx. 3:00 a.m.): Joan reported a bright light with colors in the sky while taking her dog out. The following week, she reported a large boomerang-shaped object. Preliminary investigations by Sue Van Slooten indicated no common explanation for abduction.
• Carlstadt, New Jersey (August 23, 1992, 12:30 a.m.): Ellen observed a round object with white and colored lights on her deck. The object changed shape multiple times over three hours. She contacted the police, and a lieutenant observed the object with her. Her sister also saw it and drew a similar picture.

Metro DC MUFON UFO Conference

By Tom Benson, this report covers the "UFOs, the Story of the Century" conference held on Saturday, February 6, 1993, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Several speakers, including Ed Dames, George Filer, and Kevin Randle, did not show up.

• Elaine Douglass welcomed attendees.
• Bruce Maccabee discussed the Roswell incident and the JAL 1987 Alaska case, noting the pilot was grounded for six months. He also mentioned having a copy of Project Bluebook Report No. 14.
• A debate on "Should the U.S. Government Publicly Acknowledge the Reality of UFOs" took place, with Maccabee and Douglass arguing for acknowledgment, and Robert Durant and Michael Levintow arguing against. The audience voted in favor of acknowledgment.
• Bob Oechsler presented on "Images of UFOs in TV and Advertising: The Indoctrination of America."
• Mark Blashak discussed local cases and the upcoming MUFON Symposium.
• Elaine Douglass gave a speech promoting "Operation Right to Know" and urged attendees to contact their local representatives for UFO hearings.
• Bob Oechsler (with input from Bruce Maccabee) discussed the controversial November 1991 Canadian UFO landing report, noting that "Unsolved Mysteries" omitted facts and that an upcoming "Sightings" program would cover more. He detailed alleged discrepancies in the witness's account and claimed laboratory analysis of plant growth indicated Titanium. He also discussed the source of the "Guardian" video and the denial by the Canadian government of black helicopters.

Data: UFO Descriptions Part 2: Long Range Versus Close Range UFO Sightings

This section, by Paul Ferrughelli of the National Sighting Research Center (NSRC), analyzes 1021 UFO sightings from 1987-1991.

• Background: The analysis categorizes sightings based on distance: Long Range (Nocturnal Light/Day Light Disc, >500 feet) and Close Range (Close Encounter of the First and Second Kind, <500 feet).
• Data Overview: Of the 1021 sightings, 792 (77.6%) were Long Range and 229 (22.6%) were Close Range.
• Graphs:
• Figure 1 shows the monthly number of Long Range vs. Close Range reports from 1987-1991. Long Range sightings had peaks in March 1988, October 1989, and October 1990, with a lull from May to September 1990. Close Range sightings had a high concentration from October 1988 through May 1989.
• Figure 2 displays Close Range sightings (CE-1 & CE-2) from 1987-1991, with an average of 3.8 sightings per month. A significant concentration occurred from August 1988 through May 1989, with two to three times the average.
• Figure 3 shows Long Range sightings (NL/DD) from 1987-1991, with an average of 13.2 sightings per month.
• Correlation Analysis: A correlation analysis was performed comparing Long and Close Range sightings. Figure 4 shows the correlation coefficient ('r') and T-Test ('p') for each year. Strong correlations were observed in 1990 ('r'=.589, 'p'=.044) and 1991 ('r'=.716, 'p'=.009). However, a correlation analysis comparing Long vs. Close Range sightings specifically during the "wave" of CE reports (October 1988 - September 1989) yielded 'r'=.291 and 'p'=.357, indicating no significant trend during that period.
• Observations: There is no significant trend or relationship between Long and Close Range UFO sightings over the 5-year period. The analysis suggests that simple lights at a distance do not directly relate to close-range sightings of objects.

Bits & Piece's: Evidence Points to Secret U.S. Spy Plane

This article from The Wall Street Journal, by Roy J. Harris Jr., discusses evidence suggesting the U.S. operates a secret spy plane, possibly named "Aurora," capable of speeds up to Mach 8. The speculation is based on a 1989 sighting by Chris Gibson over the North Sea, analyzed by Bill Sweetman for Jane's Defence Weekly. The article suggests this plane may have replaced the SR-71 Blackbird and could be responsible for unexplained "air-quake"-like rumbles in Southern California. Lockheed and Rockwell International Corp. are suggested as potential manufacturers. The article notes that Lockheed's "Skunk Works" has a history of developing secret aircraft like the U-2 and F-117.

Astronomy: Astronomic finding casts light on birth of stars

This article reports on new findings by a trio of astronomers (Karen Strom, Stephen Strom, and K Michael Merrill) using new infrared technology. They have captured images of hundreds of sun-like stars in their early stages of development, shortly after emerging from dust clouds but before they have wandered far from their birth "nurseries." The research suggests that many stars are born in small "families" of 10 to 50 siblings and are girdled by orbiting disks of dust and gas, the material from which planets are believed to form. These disks are estimated to be about the size and mass of our own solar system. The findings reinforce the idea that our sun may have siblings in the nearby universe.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a critical and investigative approach to UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those involving alleged abduction cases without rigorous evidence, as seen in the review of Budd Hopkins' book. There is a clear emphasis on the need for verifiable data and credible witnesses. The inclusion of statistical analysis of sightings and scientific reporting on astronomical discoveries suggests a desire to ground UFO research in empirical evidence and scientific understanding, while also acknowledging the ongoing mystery and the possibility of advanced, secret aircraft technology. The publication also seems to advocate for government transparency regarding UFOs, as highlighted by Elaine Douglass's speech and the debate at the MUFON conference.

This document, identified as issue 21 of the "UFO MUSEUM" publication, is a free promotional piece for the museum and related UFO events. It focuses on historical UFO incidents and upcoming conferences, with a strong emphasis on the alleged cover-up surrounding these phenomena. The publication appears to be from the early 1990s, given the dates of the conferences mentioned.

Key Historical Incidents

The Kenneth Arnold Sighting (1947)

The issue begins by recounting the famous 1947 sighting by Kenneth Arnold near Mt. Rainer in Washington State. Arnold described nine disk-shaped objects, and his description led reporters to coin the phrase "FLYING SAUCERS."

The Roswell Crash (1947)

Two weeks after Arnold's sighting, a UFO reportedly crashed outside of Roswell, New Mexico. The U.S. Air Force initially announced it was a flying saucer but the next day changed the story to a weather balloon. The article claims that witnesses involved in the recovery stated it was an extraterrestrial craft and that the government recovered four deceased aliens from the wreckage. This event is described as having "STARTED THE GREATEST COVER-UP IN THE HISTORY OF THE HUMAN RACE."

Notable Witnesses and Evidence

Since 1947, the article states that uncountable numbers of people have seen UFOs, including notable figures such as Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, NASA astronauts, and musician John Lennon. The UFO Museum's photographic collection is highlighted, featuring Ed Walters' photos of UFOs over Gulf Breeze, Florida, which is described as the most active UFO site in the United States.

Upcoming UFO Conferences

The 4th Great UFO/ET Alien & Abduction Congress

This conference, themed "Our Other Star Connections," was scheduled for April 16, 17 & 18, 1993, at The Days Inn in Bordentown, New Jersey. It lists numerous confirmed speakers for Saturday, April 17th, and Sunday, April 18th, including Kevin Randle, Howard and Connie Menger, Thomas J. Carey, Rosemary E. Guiley, Dr. Frank Stranges, CDR Graham Bethune USNR, Maj. Colman S. Von Keviczky, David Huggins, Richard Butler, Jim Mosely, and Richard Price. Registration costs were $100.00 for both days or $50.00 per day. Information was available via Pat J. Marcattilio at 1-609-888-1358.

MUFON 1993 Symposium

This symposium, titled "UFOLOGY: The Emergence of a New Science," was scheduled for July 2, 3 & 4, 1993, at the Hyatt Richmond Hotel in Richmond, Virginia. It featured speakers from foreign countries such as Vicente-Juan Ballester Olmos (Spain), Colin Andrews (England), Cynthia Hind (Zimbabwe), Illobrand Ludwiger (Germany), and Hoang-Yung Chiang (Taiwan). American speakers included John E. Mack, M.D., George Knapp, Linda Moulton Howe, John F. Schuessler, Wesley E. Ellison, Jeffrey W. Sainio, and Jorge Martin (Puerto Rico). A block of 350 rooms was reserved at the hotel for $62 per night. Reservations could be made by calling 804-285-1234 or FAX 804-288-3961. Information on symposium registration was to be announced in future issues of the New Jersey Chronicle.

MUFON National Conference and March on Washington

Separate from the symposium, the 1993 MUFON National conference was to take place on July 3 and 4 in Richmond, Virginia. Following this, the Second National March on Washington, sponsored by Operation Right to Know, was scheduled for Monday, July 5. The article notes that July 5th was a holiday. Richmond is located about 100 miles from Washington D.C. Participants were advised to plan their return flights from Washington on Monday. MUFON, being a tax-exempt organization, could not sponsor the political action of the march.

The Information Network

This section lists various UFO newsletters and information sources from across the country that the publication shares stories and information with. These include newsletters from Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Louisiana, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Oklahoma, as well as organizations like Citizens Against UFO Secrecy, CONTACT NOTES UFO Forum, FOCUS-Fair-Witness Project, Inc., Operation Right to Know, PASU Data Exchange, SKYWATCH, The UFO ENIGMA, and The Ufologist. The U.F.O. News clipping Service is also credited for providing current UFO-related stories.

The Lighter Side of UFOLOGY

This section contains two comic strips related to UFOs. The first is a single-panel cartoon with a caption about capturing the "first real evidence of a UFO." The second is a "THE FAR SIDE" comic by Gary Larson, depicting a UFO with figures below it.

Museum Information

The UFO Museum in Orlando, Florida, is described as a "FREE MUSEUM." After visiting, patrons are encouraged to browse the museum's specialty shop, which offers UFO books, tapes, posters, T-shirts, cards, and other items. A map is provided showing the museum's location at 7227 International Dr., Orlando, Florida, with contact information listed as (407) 351-4306.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged government cover-ups, and the promotion of UFO research and conferences. The editorial stance is clearly pro-UFO investigation, presenting historical events like Roswell as evidence of extraterrestrial contact and subsequent suppression of information. The publication acts as a hub for UFO enthusiasts, connecting them with conferences, research groups, and the UFO Museum itself.