MUFON Northern California Case Briefs - No 07 - 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: CASE BRIEFS: EXPLORATIONS & REVIEW
Issue: #7
Date: July-September 1995
Publisher: MUTUAL UFO NETWORK (MUFON), Northern California Affiliate
Type: Newsletter/Journal focusing on UFO and paranormal phenomena.

A Note from the Editor

Laura Steiger, Case Briefs Editor, thanks readers for their comments and suggestions. This issue marks the beginning of the second year of publication for Case Briefs. The publication aims to produce six issues a year but may occasionally skip or combine months due to material or time constraints. Issues will vary in length, typically aiming for 12-14 pages. Subscriptions are $16 for six issues in the U.S. and $21 for international subscriptions. Comments, articles, or subscription information should be sent to Case Briefs Editor c/o Virgil Staff, P.O. Box 7668, Landscape Station, Berkeley, California 94707-0668.

The Alien Autopsy That Wasn't

By Virgil Staff, MUFON No. California State Director

This article critiques the Fox network's TV film "Alien Autopsy: (fact or fiction?)" which aired on August 28, 1995. The author asserts that the body depicted was not extraterrestrial. While the film presented snippets, its primary aim was to convince viewers of the body's alien origin. The article suggests that the body exhibited various anomalies, including a possible situs inversus viscerum (liver on the right side), twelve fingers and toes, an edematous left thigh, and a wound on the right thigh. Pathologists suggested Turner's syndrome or Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome as possibilities. The author speculates that the individual may have been part of an experiment involving a pathogen or radiation, or that the body was used to study unknown pathogens after death. The article also touches upon the possibility of ancient Egyptian methods being used to scramble the brains.

Case 1: The Perils of Kathleen: Part VI

By Virgil Staff, State Director

This section details a series of unusual experiences reported by a woman named Kathleen. She describes feeling pressure on her feet as if something was on the bed, and later a sensation of something moving up her body. She also recounts hearing rhythmic rapping on her bedroom walls, which she initially mistook for a neighbor. Kathleen expresses a growing acceptance of these phenomena, realizing that "this other life-form is hanging around somehow." She also notes erratic behavior from her grandfather's clock, which sometimes chimes thirteen times at 10:00 p.m. and other unusual sounds from a mantle clock. These events are linked to a segment on the TV show "Sightings" about releasing spirits, which seemed to trigger paranormal activity in her home.

Case 2: Terror at Point Reyes

By Virgil Staff, State Director

This case report details an incident on February 11, 1992, involving John Bastion (pseudonym) at North Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore. While driving at approximately 11:30 p.m., Bastion noticed a cloud with a light behind it. Upon reaching the North Beach parking lot, he observed the light descend and approach him. He described the object as not being a helicopter or any aircraft he had seen before. The silent, illuminated craft was parallel to his car, about 100-150 yards away, and bobbled like a top. Bastion was terrified and remained in his car for twenty minutes before driving away. He observed the craft rising and following him in his rear-view mirror before it returned behind the cloud. The object was estimated to be the size of a bus and was seen at varying altitudes. The investigation of this case was deemed inadequate by MUFON.

"Dreamland" Update

This section provides a list of California radio stations that broadcast Art Bell's show "Dreamland" every Sunday evening, along with their broadcast frequencies. It encourages listeners to urge local stations to carry the program if they do not already. The update also congratulates Art Bell on his program and highlights frequent updates by Linda Moulton Howe and other notable guests in ufology. Information on subscribing to the "Dreamland" newsletter or ordering show tapes is also provided.

Articles

Introduction to Fyffe, Alabama: Part I
By Ted Oliphant, III

Ted Oliphant, III, a new MUFON Training Coordinator, begins a series on Fyffe, Alabama. He recounts visiting Gulf Breeze, Florida, and being recommended to speak with a local psychic named Phil. Phil had a reputation for predicting UFO activity. Phil described a "computer echo" called ECKAR, where people could interact. He also mentioned Greg Boras, who encountered a crop circle near his home after being influenced by ECKAR. Oliphant's own experiences with Phil and ECKAR are detailed, including a discussion about nuclear explosions and their potential connection to UFOs. Phil advised Oliphant that Fyffe would offer a unique experience and suggested he contact Carey and Teri Baker, publishers of the local newspaper, who would help him meet locals. The town of Fyffe had a negative experience with the tabloid show "Inside Edition," making the locals distrustful of reporters.

Time is on the Government's Side
Reprinted from UFO Intelligence Newsletter, May 1995

This article suggests that the government may be using disinformation to distract ufologists, citing the "Moore-Doty episode" and its connection to the development of the "Stealth" aircraft. It posits that claims like the alien base under the ground at Dulce, New Mexico, or Roswell, could be part of a cover/deception program. The author acknowledges that some UFO sightings and close encounters cannot be easily explained away, but argues that focusing on controversies like Gulf Breeze or crop circles distracts from core investigations.

Interesting Speculations
By Raymond Keller

This piece argues that UFOs exist as a physical phenomenon, and while scientists are hesitant to acknowledge extraterrestrial intelligence, governments are actively developing new airborne defense systems. These experimental systems, when observed by the public, can be mistaken for UFOs. The author notes that the modern UFO era began with Kenneth Arnold's sighting in 1947, but aerial phenomena have been reported throughout history. Prior to the Wright brothers' flight, UFO reports were predominantly cigar-shaped. Post-WWII, disc-shaped UFOs became more common, often sighted near military installations. The author concludes that most UFO reports are observations of unusual and experimental aircraft from various nations.

Roswell Investigation Update

This update reports on the results of the General Accounting Office's (GAO) record search concerning the 1947 Roswell crash. The GAO's investigation, prompted by Congressman Steven Schiff, examined various government archives but found a lack of documents related to the crash. Witnesses, investigators, and citizens were disappointed by the findings. The report notes that missing records and unclear retention policies complicated the search. Letters from agencies like the NSC, DOD, FBI, and CIA all denied knowledge or possession of relevant documentation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Case Briefs include the critical examination of widely publicized UFO-related events (like the "Alien Autopsy" film), detailed accounts of personal UFO sightings and experiences, and historical perspectives on the phenomenon. The publication also touches upon the role of government secrecy and disinformation in the UFO field. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, seeking logical explanations while acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on detailed reporting of witness accounts and investigative findings, with a commitment to providing information to MUFON members and the broader UFO community.

Title: CASE BRIEFS: EXPLORATIONS & REVIEW
Issue: JULY-SEPTEMBER 1995
Publisher: MUFON Northern California
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of "Case Briefs: Explorations & Review" from the third quarter of 1995 covers a range of topics relevant to UFO research and related fields. It includes updates on prominent figures in ufology, organizational activities, and legal/professional developments.

Harvard Withdrows Legal Action Against Dr. John Mack

The "TIDBITS" section highlights a significant development regarding Dr. John Mack, a professor at Harvard University known for his research into alien abductions. The San Francisco Examiner reported on August 4, 1995, that Harvard would not censure Dr. Mack. The decision, released on August 3, 1995, saw the dean of the Harvard Medical School reaffirming Dr. Mack's academic freedom to study and express his opinions on the subject, despite the controversy his work had generated.

Obituaries and Tributes

Ufologists Mourn Brinsley Le Poer Trench

This section features an obituary for Brinsley Le Poer Trench, also known as the Earl of Clancarty, who passed away in March 1995. Trench was a dedicated UFO researcher since the late 1940s, holding positions such as editor for "Flying Saucer Review" (1956-59) and president of Contact International. His work aimed to devise a cosmology explaining not only UFOs but also human existence, drawing heavily on ancient records. His views were not always accepted by more scientifically oriented researchers. Notably, he introduced the motion for the Debate on UFOs in the House of Lords, which commenced on January 18, 1979, in the UK.

The obituary also lists some of the books authored by Trench, including "The Sky People" (1960), "Men Among Mankind" (1962), "Forgotten Heritage" (1964), "The Eternal Subject" (1973), "Operation Earth" (1969), "Secrets of the Ages" (1974), and "House of Lords UFO Debate" (1979).

Trench was known for presenting unconventional materials, including theories about subsurface inhabitants of Earth who might infiltrate the surface. He suggested that these "inner earth people" could provide "papers" for individuals brought here by UFOs.

Organizational Activities and Meetings

CSETI Meets in Berkeley

The Center for the Study of Extraterrestrial Intelligence (CSETI) held its premier meeting in the Bay Area in May. Dr. Steven Greer, the founder, addressed the audience, explaining the group's purpose and encouraging interest in local chapters. CSETI is described as an international non-profit scientific research and education organization focused on understanding extraterrestrial intelligence and the ET-Human relationship, aiming for peaceful mutual relations. CSETI believes Earth has been visited by ETs for decades, citing evidence such as retrieved spacecraft, beings, photographs, and credible witness reports.

Ruben Uriarte, MUFON Assistant State Director for Northern California, is assisting CSETI in establishing a chapter in the region. Contact information for CSETI and Uriarte is provided.

Sky Watch Camp-Out: Great Success!

The MUFON San Francisco Chapter organized a successful camp-out on the weekend of August 11-13th at the Casini Ranch in Duncan Mills, coinciding with the Perseid Meteor Shower. The event was attended by 32 MUFON members. Despite the full moon making viewing difficult, the clear skies were appreciated. David King's telescope provided highlights like views of the Moon and Jupiter. Plans are tentatively underway for a similar event the following year, possibly in areas known for UFO sightings, with a call for suggestions for locations and contact information for Laura Steiger.

Media Corner

This section provides updates on television and radio programs related to UFOs and the paranormal:

• "The Extraordinary" continues to air on KTVU, Channel 2 (Oakland Fox affiliate) on Saturday nights and Sunday mornings at midnight.
• "Encounters" is not currently on KTVU's fall line-up, and viewers are encouraged to contact the station to request its return.
• "Sightings" is broadcast on Bay Area Channel 5, KPIX, at 10:00 p.m. on most Saturday evenings, with occasional schedule shifts.
• Art Bell's "Dreamland" airs Sunday evenings from 7-10 p.m. and has expanded to 141 stations nationwide, including KSFO in San Francisco.

A complete listing of California stations was to be available at the Bay Area MUFON meeting in San Jose on September 17th.

Events

• MUFON Bi-Monthly Bay Area Meeting: Scheduled for Sunday, September 17th, at 1:00 p.m. at the Church of Divine Science, 1540 Hicks, San Jose.
• MUFON San Francisco Chapter Meeting: Tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 21st, at 1:00 p.m. at the Baha'i Center, 170 Valencia Street, San Francisco. Contact Casey Fernandez for details.
• THE UFO EXPO WEST (Northern California): Scheduled for November 3rd and 4th at the Dunfey Hotel, San Mateo.

Psychologist Richard Boylan Loses License

Under the headline "'Space-alien' shrink loses his license," the San Francisco Examiner reported on August 13, 1995, that the California State Board of Psychology had revoked the license of Sacramento psychologist Richard Boylan. Boylan specialized in treating survivors of alleged alien encounters. He was found guilty of seven counts of gross negligence involving three patients, with the board stating he imposed his personal views on extraterrestrials into patients' dreams and memories. Boylan is a former president of the Sacramento Valley Psychological Association.

Letter from Richard J. Boylan

A personal letter from Richard J. Boylan, dated August 14, 1995, addressed to "Virgil," details his perspective on the license revocation. He states that the action was a response to his high-profile work and public statements regarding extraterrestrial encounters. Boylan alleges that a former Air Force Major, now a malpractice lawyer, assembled three former clients to file claims against him. He claims that despite the ex-clients abandoning their complaints and stating they had no further interest, the Board of Psychology pursued the case. Boylan asserts that the Board's Hearing Officer admitted there was no evidence of sexual misconduct, yet the Board's executive officer issued a press release with innuendoes of such. He views the action as a deliberate smear, libel, and defamation campaign by those involved in the "UFO cover-up" to discredit him because he has exposed facts about UFO reality, American UFO manufacturing, the Star Wars program, and the extraterrestrial presence. Boylan states that this has injured his reputation, destroyed his practice, ended his career, and caused emotional suffering, but he vows not to be silenced and will continue to seek justice.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation and discussion of UFO phenomena, extraterrestrial contact, and related societal implications. There is a clear focus on providing information about research activities (Dr. John Mack, CSETI), honoring key figures in the field (Brinsley Le Poer Trench), and reporting on events and organizational news (MUFON, UFO Expo). The issue also addresses controversies and legal challenges faced by individuals involved in UFO research, as seen in the case of Richard Boylan, suggesting an editorial stance that supports academic freedom and critical inquiry while also acknowledging the potential for professional and personal repercussions within the field. The publication appears to serve as a platform for disseminating news and fostering a community among UFO enthusiasts and researchers.