MUFON Ontario Newsletter - 1994 05 - vol 1.2

Magazine Overview

This issue of the MUFON Newsletter, Volume 1.2 from May 1994, features a cover story on 'Manitoulin Island "Landing Traces"' by Michel Deschamps, priced at $3.50. The issue also includes articles on 'The Carp Case - Part II', 'Scientific Studies of Unidentified Flying Objects', 'A Family Affair in Sarnia, Ontario', and 'Forester's Falls Sightings', along with a historical piece on 'Project Magnet - Ottawa'.

Manitoulin Island "Landing Traces"

Michel Deschamps recounts his investigation into crop circle-like formations discovered on Manitoulin Island in September 1990. He was initially alerted to crop circles near Sudbury and was given photographs of formations on Manitoulin Island. Upon visiting the site in June 1991, he found two indentations, each nine feet in diameter and 16 feet apart, formed on gravel and limestone. Deschamps found this peculiar as crop circles are typically found in fields, not on hard surfaces. He noted a sand-blasted effect on the spot where the gravel was blown away, revealing the limestone underneath. The gravel and sand in the center had hardened, suggesting a significant event. He found no magnetic anomalies, burns, or scorching, only tiny scratches and a smooth surface. Deschamps returned to the site multiple times and found the indentations unchanged, covered by a layer of gravel. He concludes that the site's hidden location and the nature of the traces suggest it is not a hoax, but the true cause remains unknown. He also notes that the property owner has since passed away and the property is now inaccessible.

The Carp Case - Part II

This installment, by Errol Bruce-Knapp, continues the investigation into an event reported by Diane Labenek. In August 1991, she reported seeing a bright light, possibly flares, and a 'craft' landing in her field. She later described it as silver/grey with a zig-zag design, sitting on three blocks, which coincidentally matched a drawing in a previous MUFON newsletter. Investigator Oechsler's initial assessment of the site noted the formations were on gravel and limestone. The article details Oechsler's amateurish approach to the investigation, including his lack of proper equipment and questionable conclusions about 'microwave radiation' on plants. Graham Lightfoot, who worked with Oechsler, observed Oechsler's inexperience and egocentric behavior. The investigation involved examining the site, collecting soil and plant samples, and discussions about the event. The case was also pursued for inclusion in the TV show 'Unsolved Mysteries', with Oechsler making arrangements without informing all parties. The article also touches on the identity of 'Guardian', who was revealed to be Bobby Charlebois, and attempts to obtain his fingerprints. Diane Labenek stated she knew Charlebois and that he was a frequent visitor.

The article also discusses the Guardian video, noting discrepancies between Oechsler's description of a silver/grey craft and the video showing a red craft with what appeared to be windshield wipers. The investigators debated the nature of these features, with Oechsler asserting his expertise against Tom Theofanous, who ran a windshield repair company.

Field Investigator Oeschler

This section critically examines the investigative methods of Oechsler, highlighting his perceived incompetence, egocentrism, and tendency to steer facts to fit his agenda. His claims of finding a 'landing site' and 'evidence' were met with skepticism by Graham, who attributed damage to skunks. Oechsler's lack of instruments and reliance on visual assessment for 'microwave radiation' and plant conditions were questioned. His inexperience was further evident when he requested sample containers from Graham. The article also mentions Bill Labenek's nonchalant attitude towards the alleged landing and a past 'crash' in their swamp.

Helicopters

Investigator Drew Williamson contacted the Department of National Defense (DND) regarding helicopter activity reported by Diane Labenek. DND confirmed military exercises using helicopters but stated they do not use flares during night landings and use Chem-Sticks instead. Captain Mark Bigoutte indicated that on August 19, 1991, helicopters were many miles west of Manion Corners. Oechsler and Graham later showed the Guardian video to military officials at Uplands Royal Canadian Airforce base, who did not believe it depicted a helicopter.

Unsolved Mysteries and Guardian Revealed

Oechsler's interest in getting the Carp Case on 'Unsolved Mysteries' is detailed, with Tom countering that further investigation was needed. Oechsler proceeded to make a deal with the show, leading to preparations for filming. Graham was reluctant to appear but eventually agreed. During this period, Andy Williams identified 'Guardian' as Bobby Charlebois, an avid UFO buff. Oechsler inexplicably provided Williams with material on the Carp Case. Graham later confirmed Charlebois' interest in UFOs through his sister. Despite an 'exclusive' agreement with 'Unsolved Mysteries', Oechsler recorded a segment for 'Sightings' without informing Graham. Dr. A.J. Quarington, who had previously avoided discussing the case with Graham and Clive Nadin, participated in 'Sightings'.

Fingerprints

In February 1993, Oechsler and Graham met with reporter Lois Tuffin, who also knew Bobby Charlebois. Oechsler asked Tuffin to deliver a package of UFO material to Charlebois to obtain his fingerprints, but the package was returned. The OPP found no fingerprints on the returned package, leading to the suspicion that Charlebois had intentionally wiped it clean. Diane Labenek confirmed knowing Charlebois and suggested trying to get fingerprints from his drinking glasses, though she claimed he always wiped them clean.

Scientific Studies of Unidentified Flying Objects

Chris Rutkowski presents a list of 12 suggested research projects in ufology, addressing the criticism that ufology is not a 'real' science. He argues that while direct study of UFOs is impossible, studying UFO reports can yield useful results. The suggested projects include examining psychological and sociological factors, investigating natural electromagnetic energy, analyzing media influence on UFO flaps, updating historical studies, surveying abduction experiences, conducting statistical analyses of UFO reports, studying observational capabilities, conducting rigorous public opinion surveys, examining sightings by experienced observers, using UFO reports for aviation and geophysics research, and studying fireball reports. Rutkowski emphasizes that the UFO phenomenon warrants serious scientific attention.

Project Magnet - Ottawa

This historical piece details the origins of Project Magnet, initiated by Wilbert B. Smith of the Ministry of Transport in 1950. Smith suggested that 'geo-magnetics' could explain flying saucer phenomena and learned of American studies on the subject. His memorandum to Commander C.P. Edwards led to a 'go ahead' for the project. Smith collected UFO sighting reports and equipment for an observatory at Shirleys Bay. His report concluded that the vehicles were likely extra-terrestrial, a conclusion that drew attention. A publicized detection of a flying saucer over Shirleys Bay in August 1954 further complicated matters. Project Magnet, a part-time activity, officially ended in 1954, but Smith was permitted to continue his work unofficially until his death in 1962.

A Family Affair in Sarnia, Ontario

Sue Kovios reports on a case involving Craig Laws, an 11-year-old boy from Sarnia, Ontario. In January 1992, Craig reported seeing a foggy white object descend and turn orange while walking to school. The object increased in size, appearing as a rectangle with dashes at each end, and seemed to follow him. After running home, he could no longer see it. The article questions whether this sighting triggered subsequent dreams, including one where he was pursued by a red object and another involving floating towards a smoky craft with sloe-eyed, pinkish-gray skinned creatures. Physical marks, such as a pimple, and psychological changes, like memory loss, were also noted. The case investigator is Dorothy Lewis.

Forester's Falls Sightings

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UFOs and Methodology

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Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed investigations of specific UFO cases, such as the Manitoulin Island 'Landing Traces' and the Carp Case, emphasizing witness testimony, physical evidence, and the challenges of investigation. There is a strong focus on the scientific study of ufology, with suggestions for research projects and critiques of investigative methodologies. The issue also highlights the role of MUFON Ontario in documenting and investigating these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into UFO reports, while also being critical of amateurish or egocentric approaches to investigation, as exemplified by the critique of Oechsler. The historical context of UFO research is also explored through the Project Magnet section.

Title: MUFON ONTARIO
Issue: 11
Volume: 1
Date: March 1994
Publisher: Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) in ONTARIO
Country: Canada

This issue of MUFON ONTARIO delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, including witness testimonies, investigative methodologies, and astronomical events. It features reports from the Ottawa Valley, discussions on forensic science in abduction cases, and the dramatic collision of Comet Shoemaker-Levy with Jupiter.

Witness Accounts and Investigations

Craig's Dreams and Physical Marks

The issue begins with an account from a person named Craig, who experienced dreams involving alien technology and creatures. Investigator Dorothy Lewis suggested these could be 'out-of-body' experiences induced by alien technology. Craig also reported seeing craft and creatures during waking hours. Notably, he developed deep red scratches on his chest, which he stated were not from his pets, and which had ridges suggesting pinching. These marks were still visible months later. His dog also exhibited unusual behavior, growling and barking viciously at him during one incident after a dream.

The Laws Family Sighting

On January 26, 1992, Mrs. Laws reported seeing a bright white light that caused her dog to react, leading her to fall into a deep sleep. The previous evening, Craig, Mrs. Laws, and her daughter witnessed a craft that moved out of an airplane's path and later followed the children to and from high school. The object was described as reddish-orange with a spindle shape. On February 11, 1992, the trio observed a craft hovering above their house. Investigator Dorothy Lewis suggested hypnotic regression for the family and noted new developments in the case.

Mrs. Laws' Scratches

Mrs. Laws, a former Coast Guard employee, awoke feeling groggy and discovered deep red scratches under her left breast and on her back. She could not recall how they occurred and determined her work machinery or heavy clothing could not have caused them. Dorothy Lewis planned to advise of her findings.

Forester's Falls Sightings

Graham Lightfoot reports on community folklore in the Ottawa Valley concerning strange lights and crop circles. An account from Mrs. Winnie Bennet, 82 years old, tells of a bright yellow light seen by her mother before 1889, which landed behind a barn, making the structure visible as if it had no siding. Winnie Bennet herself saw a large circular light for twenty minutes on February 8, 1993.

Helen Eckford and Shelly's Encounter

Helen Eckford and her daughter Shelly witnessed a bright light west of Forester's Falls. They described it as having a large bright light, two flashing green lights, and one red light. The object moved towards Forester's Falls, and after the light went out, they observed a large boomerang-shaped object. They followed it to Warren Boese's farmyard. Warren Boese, a pilot, estimated the object to be about 200 feet above the ground, flat, with colored and bright white lights. He believed it was not an aircraft. His mother, Doris, described it as a crystal ball with a frisbee edge, changing shape and jiggling. The object appeared to follow Helen when she left, moving towards Cobden and then Rankin. Helen watched it for an hour and a half, feeling it was watching her.

Other Forester's Falls Witnesses

More than a dozen people reportedly saw a strange light in the sky around Forester's Falls on February 8, 1993. A worker at the Timminco mine described seeing a triangular-shaped moon to the north, which his colleagues dismissed.

Shared Dreams

Before the Eckford story became public, a young man and woman, unrelated and living 50 km apart, had the same dream. The woman dreamt of a bright light landing over a pond, described as a cluster of lights like a round chandelier with distinct etchings. The young man near Amprior dreamt of a bright light falling from the east and landing in the Forester's Falls area, describing two bush areas and open fields. He later visited the area and found the described location.

Other Sightings and Crop Circles

Several other sightings are mentioned in the Upper Ottawa Valley, including severe power losses at the Chalk River nuclear facility in 1970 due to observed lights. Crop circles were also reported in several areas during 1970/71, and a large circle of flattened hay appeared near Forester's Falls three years prior to the publication.

UFO Abductions and Forensic Science

John Schuessler, M.S., discusses the frustration of UFO abduction victims in proving their experiences. He highlights the role of UFO investigators and psychologists using regressive hypnosis. Schuessler proposes that forensic medicine and police forensic lab experts can now provide tools to prove abduction experiences. This can be done by analyzing samples from the abductee's skin, clothing, or secretions to identify particles from the UFO environment or alien contact. He notes that abductees often describe immersion in fluids or physical contact with aliens, and forensic analysis can determine the nature of these fluids or secretions. The presence of alien fingerprints or residues on objects within the victim's environment can also be examined. Schuessler suggests that future investigations should focus on utilizing forensic science tools to better serve abduction victims.

Methodologies in Ufology

Victor Lourenco, MUFON Provincial Director for Ontario, reflects on the March 1994 MUFON Journal article "Scientific Credibility" by Stuart Appelle. Lourenco emphasizes the need for ufology to adopt elementary scientific principles and a rigorous methodology. He criticizes the utilization of random, biased comments and degrading accusations, advocating for objectivity, common sense, and dialectic critique. Lourenco suggests that scientific analysis requires careful selection of relevant material, citing examples like soil samples and photos being sent for analysis when probability is low. He also stresses the importance of continuous updates on terrestrial technology for narrowing misidentifications and warns against presentations that subtly introduce speculative material under the guise of neutrality. Lourenco concludes that maintaining a parallelism between objective and virtual realities is difficult.

Fiery Comet on a Crash Course

The issue features a report on Comet Shoemaker-Levy, which had already broken into 20 tad-pole-like fragments and was on a collision course with Jupiter. The Hubble Space Telescope photographed these fragments, showing dramatic changes in their orientation over a six-month period. The collision, expected in July, was anticipated to cause massive explosions, the force of which was compared to 100 million hydrogen bombs. The comet broke up due to Jupiter's tidal forces in the summer of 1992 and was discovered by Gene and Carolyn Shoemaker and David Levy. Project scientist Ed Weiler commented on the size of the fragments, relating it to theories about the comet that may have wiped out the dinosaurs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of MUFON ONTARIO strongly emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific methodology in the study of UFO phenomena. It advocates for evidence-based investigation, moving beyond anecdotal accounts to incorporate scientific tools like forensic analysis. The publication also highlights the ongoing interest in UFO sightings and abduction experiences within the community, while also covering significant astronomical events like the Shoemaker-Levy comet's impact on Jupiter. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting credible research and critical analysis within the field of ufology.