MUFON Ontario Newsletter - 1995 03 - vol 2.1

Magazine Overview

Title: UFONTARIO
Issue: Volume 2.1
Date: March 1995
Publisher: MUFON Ontario
Country: Canada
Price: $3.50

This issue of UFONTARIO, published bimonthly by the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) in Ontario, Canada, dedicates significant attention to the purported 1947 Roswell film. The cover headline boldly states "THE PURPORTED 1947 ROSWELL FILM," with an accompanying illustration and an article by Kent Jeffrey of the International Roswell Initiative.

The Purported 1947 Roswell Film

Kent Jeffrey, author and coordinator of the International Roswell Initiative, presents a strong case that the recently surfaced film, allegedly documenting the Roswell incident, is a hoax. He notes that the past 18 months have been eventful regarding Roswell, including Congressman Steven Schiff's request for the GAO to investigate and the Air Force's release of its own report, which reiterated the original 'cover story' of a downed balloon. The main focus, however, is a film that surfaced in England, purportedly shot at Roswell in 1947 by a U.S. military photographer. The film's existence was announced in January 1995, though it was allegedly purchased in the U.S. two years prior. The film has generated considerable interest and controversy regarding its authenticity.

Jeffrey, who has attempted to maintain neutrality on controversial UFO issues, feels compelled to speak out due to the dubious nature of the film and its handling. He states unequivocally that the film is a fraud, though he acknowledges that if it were genuine, it would be the 'Holy Grail' of evidence for the Roswell case.

The film was shown on May 5, 1995, at the Museum of London, with about one hundred attendees, including media and UFO researchers. Despite being unauthenticated, it received publicity in Europe. Jeffrey attended this showing and was the only Roswell researcher present. He notes that Merlin Productions, owned by Ray Santilli, is in possession of the film.

Jeffrey details the viewing experience, noting the security measures to prevent photography and the lack of a formal introduction or Q&A session. He points out inconsistencies with prior claims about the film's length and format, initially described as 150 minutes from 10-minute reels, but later presented as three-minute reels. The film shown was only 20-25 minutes long and depicted a single scene: an autopsy of a supposed alien body in a small room.

The body is described as that of a short, adult, human Caucasian female, with features such as swollen legs, an extra digit on hands and feet, and possibly six digits on the feet (polydactylism). The head was somewhat large, and the body barrel-chested and bowlegged. Anomalous features included no visible body hair, small ears, a small nose, slightly large eyes with black membranes, a distended abdomen, and a wounded leg. While some features could be attributed to genetic defects or medical conditions, Jeffrey argues that the overall appearance is that of a doctored human corpse, making it a despicable hoax.

He contrasts the film's subject with the 98.4% genetic similarity between humans and chimpanzees, stating that the resemblance of the film's body to a human is far greater than that of a chimpanzee, making parallel evolutionary development on another planet highly improbable. He concludes that the body is not of extraterrestrial origin and the film is a fraud, possibly due to scientific illiteracy or ignorance.

Jeffrey further criticizes the film's photography, noting excessive panning, poor focus, and fleeting close-ups. He questions the claim of a photographer named Jack Barnett, suggesting that if such a person existed and had stolen government film, the government would likely know his identity. He also notes that Santilli has made unverified claims about private viewings for the FBI and offers to sell the film for $1.8 million.

He expresses concern that unscrupulous individuals may exploit the Roswell Event for financial gain, potentially damaging the credibility of the entire UFO research community. He urges the UFO community to investigate the matter thoroughly and call for a criminal investigation if appropriate, warning that the film's eventual exposure as a hoax could lead people to dismiss the entire Roswell event.

Inside

The issue also features articles on "Caveat Internet," "Roswell autopsy film in Italy," "Rethinking the problem," "Canadian Archives," and "Roswell: USAF report."

Caveat Internet

Michael Strainic, MUFON Canadian National Director, discusses the internet, its origins as ARPAnet for the U.S. Defense Department, and its evolution into a network of networks. He notes the shift from a government-funded network to a commercially operated one and the rise of the World Wide Web (WWW). Strainic highlights the vast amount of information available, including newsgroups and UFO files, but also warns of the "Garbage Factor" and "Flame Wars" that plague the net. He advises newcomers to seek guidance from experienced users.

Roswell Autopsy Showing In Italy

Edoardo Russo reports on the showing of the alleged Roswell autopsy film at the Third International Symposium on UFOs and Related Phenomena in San Marino, Italy. Maurizio Baiata, an independent TV producer, provided most of the details. Baiata followed the story since March 1995 and was shown different footage by Ray Santilli. Three main parts of the footage are described: the "Tent footage" (7 minutes), the "Second" Autopsy (12 minutes showing an autopsy in an operatory room), and the "First" Autopsy (18 minutes, widely known, shown in London on May 5th). The report details the visual content of the seven slides presented from the "First" Autopsy, including descriptions of the body, surgical instruments, and wounds. It also addresses rumors and confirmations regarding the film, such as the phone cable, Truman's alleged appearance, Detlev Bronk's involvement, and Kodak's analysis. Cary, an associate of Santilli, is responsible for the film's marketing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is the critical examination of the purported 1947 Roswell film, with a strong editorial stance against its authenticity. The magazine emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and evidence-based research within the UFO community, warning against exploitation for financial gain. The article on the internet highlights its dual nature as a valuable resource and a source of misinformation. The reporting on the Italian showing of the autopsy film provides further details and analysis, reinforcing the skepticism presented in the main article.

This issue of UFONTARIO, dated May 26, 1995, features articles on UFO phenomena, including the controversial Santilli film, potential explanations for animal mutilations, and a detailed account of the Walkerton Nocturnal Light case. The magazine also includes a conclusion from a U.S. Air Force report on the Roswell Incident and information on UFO research initiatives and communication platforms.

The Santilli Film and Roswell

The issue begins with a discussion of a film by Santilli, reportedly containing footage related to the Roswell incident. According to reports, Mantle learned of the footage in 1993 and eventually viewed it after Santilli's promise to show it in Sheffield. The media explosion surrounding the film is described as casual, stemming from Mantle mentioning it to a local journalist. The timeline for the Roswell crash is potentially revised, with footage suggesting recordings between June 5th and July 5th, 1947, in Roswell and Fort Worth, placing the crash about a month earlier than the original story. Cameraman Barnett was allegedly ordered to Roswell by Washington officials. Cary Santilli's marketing strategy involves gradual revelations, with still pictures released in June, leading up to the footage showing at the 8th International UFO Congress in Sheffield. Santilli allegedly rejected an offer of 7 million dollars from Israel TV for exclusive rights. Santilli's company, Merlin, is planning a World-Wide Web server.

Rethinking the Problem: Animal Mutilations

Authored by Hugh Cochrane, a MUFON member, this article challenges conventional explanations for UFO phenomena, particularly animal mutilations. Cochrane suggests that while UFOs may be involved, a significant portion of these events could be attributed to natural energy events erupting from the earth. These events, he posits, can radiate intense energies that disintegrate flesh and target specific mineral elements in animals. Evidence suggests UFO phenomena can alter mineral elements, radiate ultraviolet and ultrasonic waves, and induce paralysis. Cochrane proposes that such an energy event, erupting from beneath an animal, could cause selective paralysis and then a surge that obliterates flesh and hide. The energy could also disintegrate the animal's interior, extract mineral elements, and leave the carcass without bloating due to the elimination of natural bacteria by ultraviolet energies. The energy might exit the body, causing further damage. The article also notes that laboratory analysis of whitish powder found near mutilation sites reveals mineral elements that fluoresce under UV, similar to UFO observations. Cochrane argues that this scenario provides an alternative to the 'alien' explanation and addresses events in zoos, wildlife preserves, and backyard coops.

The Walkerton Nocturnal Light Case

This section details the Walkerton Nocturnal Light Case, a well-documented account of a highly luminous object observed in western Ontario in 1960. The object ranged across the countryside and hovered around a large tree, appearing to examine it. It was pursued by provincial police for nearly an hour. The case was reported by a professional astronomer and his brother. The sighting occurred on a country road outside Walkerton, ending around 2:00 a.m. on a summer morning. J. Allen Hynek, in 'The UFO Experience: A Scientific Inquiry,' found the case unusual due to the object's small estimated linear size. The object, described as circular and highly luminous, changed color and moved deliberately, pausing at points of interest, giving the impression of intelligent behavior. Its motion was silent, even during a rapid acceleration that likely exceeded the speed of sound. The object was clearly visible alternately through and obscuring the tree branches, fixing its distance. It was witnessed by competent individuals, including police officers. The salient points are that the object appeared governed by intelligence and did not behave as a natural physical phenomenon.

Conclusion (Roswell Incident Report) from the U.S. Air Force

This section presents the conclusion of a U.S. Air Force research report on the Roswell Incident. The report states that no information was found to indicate the incident was a UFO event. Available official materials suggest the wreckage recovered from the Brazel Ranch was from a Project Mogul balloon train. The report notes that while Project Mogul was TOP SECRET, there was no indication of an official pre-planned cover story. The identification of the wreckage as a weather balloon was based on the lack of physical difference between Mogul and normal weather balloons. The report also addresses the over-reaction by military officials in reporting a 'flying disc' and the lack of heightened military operational or security activity that would be expected in an alien recovery. The claim of a cover-up for 47 years without a suspicious paper trail is deemed incredible. The report also states little was mentioned about 'alien bodies' because the wreckage was from a balloon, and pro-UFO groups cannot agree on details, with some claims being hoaxes. Persons making claims often make a living from the 'Roswell Incident' and are encouraged to present evidence directly to the government. The review found no evidence of the Air Force's involvement in an 'alien' body recovery or cover-up. The report was generated as an official response to the GAO and is considered the final Air Force report on the Roswell matter.

UFO UpDates - The BBS of MUFON Ontario

This section announces that MUFON Ontario is operating a computer bulletin board system called UFO UpDates. Interested users can call 416-932-0031 to leave their name and voice telephone number for a validation number to log on. The BBS is available 24 hours a day.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence and explanations. There is a clear stance against accepting sensational claims without rigorous analysis, as seen in the critique of the Santilli film's marketing and the detailed debunking of 'alien bodies' in the Roswell incident. The magazine promotes a more scientific and rational approach, exploring natural phenomena as potential explanations for events like animal mutilations. The editorial stance appears to favor evidence-based investigation and encourages ufologists to consider all possibilities, including those that challenge conventional UFO lore, while maintaining a skeptical yet open mind. The inclusion of contact information for various UFO research organizations and communication platforms suggests an effort to foster a community of inquiry and information sharing.