Bigfoot and the Secret Society ~ Exposed!!

Back in 2008 I wrote a blog titled, "Is There a Bigfoot Mafia?" This issue always seems to rear its head when a newbie comes along and thinks someone is keeping information from them.

Oddly enough;

It's also, usually, the newbie who claims to have the most "evidence," but never any proof.

Here we are again. If you have been involved in this community for more than 10 minutes I am sure you've heard these things before. "There's a secret government organization that spreads misinformation about Bigfoot." "There's a group of people within the community that keeps all Bigfoot knowledge out of the public." Heck I've been tied to a covert CIA group and a Cabal hiding the existence of Bigfoot.

I wish I could work for the CIA. I'm a Bigfooter. I doubt they would have me now. So thanks Bigfoot.

Yet - we are all still looking. Doesn't really make sense when you think about it.

Lets apply some logic here: If there were a secret group of people within this community with all the information necessary about Bigfoot why, for the love of Bigfoot itself, would we still be looking? I think those with the "alleged" knowledge would be cashing in and rightfully so.

Maybe there isn't a Bigfoot Mafia. Maybe the person saying these things just has crappy evidence and can't handle hearing it? Maybe the person jumped up and down until others couldn't take it anymore and watched their video - and then the person who made the video public - didn't like what was said? Maybe, just maybe, it's more about the perception of the questions being asked and less about the questions themselves?

If you can't take criticism then don't post online and ask for opinion.

Whatever you do, don't pester others into watching videos or looking at evidence if the information isn't there to back up the claim! If you don't care what others have to say about your video or evidence why are you even posting or asking others to view? Seems silly to me. Big waste of your time and the time of others. Don't expect the world will see a Bigfoot where you do if the video is less than clear.

If you have to red circle the Bigfoot - it's not winning evidence. It's not going to win the "hearts and minds," of science.

Example: recently I viewed a video, in which the researcher says, clearly, the subject of a photo is in fact a Bigfoot. I looked, and the person states he had the game cam about a foot off the ground, yet is using a tree, probably about 5-6 feet (conservative estimate) behind the subject of the still photo, as a way to accurately measure the height of said, "Bigfoot."

Nice try but no.

If the alleged Bigfoot was beside the tree, then sure you could use that tree or a spot on it, for a height reference - but not when the alleged Bigfoot is feet in front of the tree.

I have never been mean to be mean to any researcher - I am skeptical of all claims. If you don't care what's already been done and failed, or don't care about getting your information straight before you post things online, then it's your problem to deal with the consequences. Life isn't fair and not everyone is going to think your blobsquatch is a Bigfoot. If you are not armed with the information to prove your claim or theory the tough time, you will probably get, is your own fault. Don't blame others. There is no way else to explain it.

Why is that so hard to understand? Unless it has less to do with credible evidence and more to do with "stuff" that will help sell t-shirts.

I'm in this for proof - not sales.

Yet, still, some new researchers publish their blurry photos with red circles and get all upset because not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon and simply believing what they say.

No, the community doesn't have to believe everything being said. We are allowed to ask questions if we see, read or hear something that doesn't seem right or we just don't understand.

Even the likes of Dr. Meldrum has faced scrutiny and ridicule from this community. Why new researchers think they are above being questioned is beyond me. It's okay for "old timers," but everything a newbie posts should be considered legit? C'mon....

Yes, we all need to have thick skin.

Constructive criticism can be tough to take, apparently,

If  you're going to ask others to take time out of their lives, however little time you think it might be, to review your videos or materials then at least have the decency to treat those, taking time out of their lives, with some respect and listen to what they have to say. You just might learn something. I learn all the time from new and long time researchers - because I don't think I know it all. I can always learn something. No one is asking you kiss their backside. But don't bother people if you have no intention of reading what they say to you, or you can't engage in a conversation that doesn't borderline on paranoia, or goes straight to it.

And yes, when you start blaming "secret organizations," for your failure you really do sound upset and paranoid.

But, you're not breaking my heart by destroying your credibility. You will, however, give many, much to talk about when it comes to any evidence you ever put out in the future. It's your credibility to build up, or destroy, no one elses.

No, the "old timers" are not out to get you. Frankly, I don't care who makes the discovery as long as someone does.

Do you know;

How many newbies have come along and swore they were going to end this debate and show us, "old timers," what we're doing wrong?

Well, those newbies are "old timers," and they don't have anymore information than today's newbies. So, there's that.

In closing my level headed friends;

Is there a Bigfoot Mafia or Cabal? No. I wish there were so this research, which seems to be slipping off a cliff into the realm of insanity, could be over. Have all the questions answered before we are all fitted with our own nice little white jackets that buckle in the back.

Have a great day my friends!!

Women in Bigfoot Research ~ Adrianne Brashear Arney

Some years back I used to write articles titled: "Women in Bigfoot Research". Yes, I typed the words, "used to". I stopped because as is usually the case, life gets in the way, and back in the day of these articles there were so few women involved in Bigfoot Research/Investigation. That is no longer the case.

So, I have decided to start writing these articles again. Why? Good question. 

Answer: because there are some damn good women, doing damn good work, who deserve recognition. 

I am starting out my first article with Adrianne Brashear Arney. I've known of Adrianne for quite some time, but only began really getting to know her over the last few years. In the article, she calls herself a "believer," but I know she tempers that with a healthy dose of skepticism. She is a boots on the ground field researcher working side by side with the men of Ohio Bigfoot (formerly Tri-State Bigfoot). 

I'm sure you can guess what state she is from. 

Adrianne is simply one of the many women in this community that make me proud to call friend and fellow researcher.

 Women in Bigfoot Research ~ Adrianne Brashear Arney:

Adrianne Brashear Arney

Melissa: Please tell the readers about yourself. 

Adrianne: I am married and a proud Momma of a Daughter and a Son. I am the owner, creator, designer of Whippoorwill Studio on Etsy (shameless plug). I enjoy doing many forms of arts and crafts, kayaking, hiking, camping, star gazing and sitting around a campfire with good friends. I have spent many years researching the Paranormal and UFO activity and I also go on expeditions in search of the elusive Bigfoot. 

Follow up: What does your family think of your involvement in Bigfoot research/investigation?

Adrianne: My family pretty much supports me except for my daughter who has a degree in Anthropology. She was taught by her professors that bigfoot is just folklore and I get a lot of eye rolling from her when the topic is mentioned. My siblings and parents, cousins etc. are all intrigued and follow my adventures.

Melissa: Are you a "skeptic," or a "believer"? How would you describe your approach to this research/investigation? 

Adrianne: I am a believer. I have had the pleasure of interviewing many witnesses who have told me of their encounters in detail. If you take those interviews along with the thousands of other accounts that have been told all around the world, there has to be something to it. My approach actually starts with the witnesses and investigating their claims to try and find evidence to back up their claims. There are also times I will research a random area that I think has what it takes to sustain such a large creature even if there have never been any sightings reported there.

Follow up: There are people, like myself, who are not "believers" simply because they haven't had a sighting. While I think your thoughts on this are well thought out and you obviously know how to make a well informed decision, others will not agree. They will say, "how can you believe Bigfoot is out there when you haven't seen it."

What would you say to those people?

Adrianne: I have hiked all over the hills in Kentucky ever since I was a child and I have never seen a bear or bobcat while hiking. But because I have never seen one doesn't mean they are not there, because they are! I have seen a Black Panther but according to KY forest rangers they do not exist there!

Melissa: Are you a member of any Organized Group(s) or are you an Independent Researcher? Or both?

Adrianne: I research with a great group of guys, Jay, Bryan and Kelley of OhioBigfoot.com on a regular basis. When we receive a report through our website, we always go as a team to investigate. I also do a lot of research on my own in Kentucky and I work with other researchers when the opportunity arises.

Melissa: How long have you been active in the field of Bigfoot research/investigation?

Photo courtesy of Adrianne Brashear Arney

Adrianne: I started seriously researching around 7 years ago, but have been interested since I can remember

Melissa: Have you noticed any changes in this field of research/investigation over the years? 

Adrianne: I have noticed more and more enthusiasts due to shows on TV but other than that not much has changed.

Follow up: Do you think the Television shows help or hurt the research/investigation? I will be the first to say, there are places that used to be pretty good for investigation but now the question I always ask is, "is that the target species or are we recording a human?"

 Both, I think the occasional documentary type shows are sometimes great because they get the serious researchers thinking about new ways of capturing evidence and give us the latest theories as to what this creature could be. On the other hand the shows that are for entertainment purposes give false impressions of how most of us conduct our research. I think some witnesses may shy away from reporting what they have seen for fear it will turn into a circus and they will be ridiculed. Then on the flip side you will have people making false claims hoping to get themselves on TV.

Melissa: What keeps you asking questions?

Adrianne: Witnesses, and my own curiosity.

Melissa: What do you think about the growing numbers of women becoming active in this field? 

Adrianne: I think it's great. More like minded friends for me :)

Follow up: As a woman who does active field work, do you feel women are represented accordingly either within groups or in public venues?

I think it depends on the woman. How she presents herself  will be how she will be perceived.

Melissa: Have you had a sighting? If so please explain.

Adrianne: I've had experiences but no actual sighting

Follow up: Could you please discuss your, "experiences?"

Just the usual stuff like vocalizations, tree knocks, eyeshine. My team also experienced startling something huge when entering the woods. We heard and captured on a recording. It could only be described as a huge bipedal creature taking off through the woods breaking down trees as it ran!

Melissa: One piece of equipment you think is the most important?

Adrianne: Other than my own eyes and ears I think a good evidence collecting kit is a must.

Melissa: Most researchers have one report that "stands out" in their minds. Is there a report that still "stands out" for you?

Photo courtesy of Adrianne Brashear Arney

Adrianne: Yes, An elderly gentleman finally got the nerve to send us a report about an experience he had has a youth. He and his boyhood friends were terrorized by something that he was pretty positive was a Bigfoot. The emotion in his voice was enough to make me a believer. I was honored that he was comfortable enough tell me about his frightening experience.

Melissa: What questions would you like researchers/investigators to ask witnesses?

Adrianne: I usually have my usual set of questions ready when contacting a witness and I find that half of them don't pertain to their experience.  Every report is different and has it's own set of circumstances.

Melissa: If there were one thing about this field of research/investigation you could change what would it be?

Adrianne: The hoaxers, attention seekers and those just in it to trying to score some quick cash, which is not gonna happen.

Melissa: What you would like people to know about you.

Adrianne: I enjoy being with other like-minded people in and out of the field. A lot of them have achieved family status. I don't mind sharing new ideas or theories. I don't think what we do should be a competition. Most of us have the same goal and working together instead of against each other is probably the key.

Melissa: Do you have any advice for a new researcher?

Adrianne: Hmmm...tread lightly but carry a big tree knocker! Seriously though, don't go into it thinking it's a competition, it's not. Nobody is an expert in this field. You also don't have to have all the latest greatest most expensive toys, they have not gotten anybody anywhere so far!

2016 Creature Weekend

It's that time again folks ~ Creature Weekend is almost upon us! 

2016 CREATURE WEEKEND SPEAKERS:

Ken Gerhard

 Ken Gerhard is a widely recognized cryptozoologist and field investigator for
The Centre for Fortean Zoology as well as a fellow of the Pangea Institute and consultant for several anomalous research organizations. He has traveled the world searching for evidence of mysterious animals and legendary beasts including Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, the Chupacabra, enigmatic winged creatures and even werewolves.

In addition to co-hosting the History Channel TV series Missing in Alaska, Ken has appeared in three episodes of the series Monster Quest and is featured in the History Channel special The Real Wolfman, as well as Ancient Aliens (History Channel),

Legend Hunters (Travel Channel), Unexplained Files (Science Channel), Paranatural (National Geographic), Weird or What? with William Shatner (Syfy), True Monsters (History Channel), Monsters and Mysteries in America (Animal Planet), Ultimate Encounters (Tru TV), True Supernatural (Destination America), Monster Project (Nat Geo Wild) and Shipping Wars (A&E).

His credits include appearances on numerous news broadcasts and nationally syndicated radio programs like Coast to Coast AM, as well as being featured in articles by the Associated Press, Houston Chronicle and Tampa Tribune. Ken is author of the books Big Bird: Modern Sightings of Flying Monsters and Encounters with Flying Humanoids, as well as co-author of Monsters of Texas (with Nick Redfern) and has contributed to trade publications including Fate Magazine. He currently lectures and exhibits at various conferences and events across the United States. Born on Friday the 13th of October, Ken has traveled to twenty-six different countries on six continents, as well as virtually all of the United States. An avid adventurer, he has camped along the Amazon, explored the Galapagos, hiked the Australian Outback and has visited many ancient and mysterious sites, from Machu Pichu to Stonehenge.

Ron Morehead

Challenged by skeptics, but time-tested by science, Ron Morehead’s account of the legendary bigfoot brings an exciting report of unsurpassed vocal interaction between humans and modern day giants.  He has produced two CDs and a book, which have actual vocalizations of bigfoot and their attempt to interact with man.

Science has established that these unusual sounds were spontaneous and made at the time of the recordings.  And, a complex language has recently been discovered.  Ron believes they are sentient and, like humans, have cognizance.  His story provides the reader with a unique insight into the nature of these giants.

Ron Murphy

Bigfoot, UFOs, Thunderbirds, Ghosts, and all things that go bump in the night is scientifically researched and documented in this work, as well as raising unique theories into the cause of such phenomena.

Award-winning author Ronald Murphy takes the reader into the woods and small towns of the Chestnut Ridge in the third edition of Unexplained Chestnut Ridge (Camonica Books, $20.00) Witnesses are interviewed and first hand accounts of actual expeditions are recorded in a conversational manner both the believer and skeptic will find enjoyable.

The Pack, (Camonica Books, $20) is a novelization of the Dogman mythos, centering on an unfulfilled suburban housewife named Diann who finds herself involved with a merciless pack of female werewolves. Set in rural Western Pennsylvania, this allegorical tale wrestles with the notion of exclusivity and acceptance in the world run by the wealthy and popular. Membership into this elite group has its privileges…and its price. Is Diann willing to risk all that she holds dear to become a member of The Pack?

The Tormented: Ten Tales of Terror, ($15) is a collection of previously published short stories, many of them horror award winners. Set in his beloved Pennsylvania, Ron expertly weaves his stories of vampires and witches, zombies and wendigos, full of plot-twists and unexpected encounters.

Dave Scott of the internationally popular podcast, Spaced Out Radio, calls Ron Murphy “the cryptozoological guru,” and has Ron as a monthly guest. George Noorey of Coast to Coast AM refers to Murphy as “a world-class expert” in faerie lore. Besides Coast to Coast AM and Spaced Out Radio, Ron has also been heard on the Black Cat Lounge, SquatchWatch Radio, WILK, KTKK AM630, and numerous other programs throughout the US and Canada.

Ronald L. Murphy graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and attended graduate school at Pitt and at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He is a professional actor, having appeared in movies, on television, and on stage. He is also a reenactor for the Underground Railroad in Blairsville, PA. Ron has researched the unexplained from Maine to Florida as well as in the United Kingdom. Ron is also a member of the Center for Cryptozoological Studies and Center for Unexplained Events.

Bigfoot Coop

 
The Ohio Bigfoot CoOp was formed on Monday May 25, 2015. Their core administrators and Researchers include Amie Starling, Richard Washington, Steven and Dawna Blair, and Mark and Jeanne Hudak. They have over thirty years of combined research experience, as well as multiple encounters, and thousands of hours spent in the field. The O.B.C.O. is a dedicated group of researchers finding the answers to unravel the phenomenon, behavior, diet, and activities behind Bigfoot. Through patient cooperation with other groups, independent researchers, and ordinary people, they hope to bridge a gap bring everyone together to finally solve this great mystery.......

For more information on Creature Weekend please click the links below!

Schedule of Events   

2016 Crypto Art Exhibit 

Tickets 

Lodging 
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2016 Ohio Bigfoot Conference

Ohio Bigfoot Conference. by Melissa Hovey-Larsen.

As many of you know I don't attend conferences to listen to speakers. I go to see friends, I haven't seen in a while, sometimes years. Why don't I listen to speakers? Well, personally I hate being trapped in a room for god knows how long. and I hate being the person who stands up to leave while a person is speaking, because I have to find a ladies room. I know the large majority of those invited to speak, so I have either heard their spiel or can guess what they'll talk about.

Conferences (in my humble opinion) aren't really for the "field researcher," their more for those in the general public who see faces on T.V. or the internet and want to meet those people (or faces) up close. They're also for the person who's had a sighting and wants to talk to an investigator face to face.

 For those of you without a sense of humor, buy, or grow one, before reading any further - or simply stop reading.

I absolutely loved seeing my sister, and partner in crime, Monica Frank Rawlins. Hopefully it won't be another 5 years before we see each other again.

Meeting Shelly Covington-Montana was a trip. An absolute pleasure.

Gabrielle Cole is just as nice in person as she is online - see your dentist before spending any time around her.

Sean Forker hasn't changed in all the years I've known him. Someday you must share your secret. Seriously what is it? Creams, vitamins, HGH? Really I wanna know. But seeing him with his pal James Baker (thanks for that hug) was a true pleasure.

Jeffery R. Thomas didn't disappoint and as usual he brought his unique sense of humor along with his wife Tonia who is always as nice as she is funny.

Tom Yamarone: Yams!!!!! What else is there to say? Always, always great to see you!!

Diana Esordi - it's always great to see you and I couldn't be happier for you and Mike.

Sharon Lee. You wore Bella out. She hasn't moved in 2 days. I tried to play with her yesterday and she lifted her head and said - well I can't post that - but she gave me directions. It was great seeing you!

Henry B. May IV. Henry.. Henry.. The only person I know who can walk around with a smile on his face, and a camera in his hand, at these events like it's the first one he's ever been to. One of the kindest and nicest men in this community. I'm so glad I found you on Sunday to say hi. The only reason you got that picture is cause I like you so much! Thanks for posting it so fast.

Fred Saluga - a person I truly enjoy. Why? Because you can vehemently disagree with him, and still call him friend. It was great seeing you again my friend!

Eric H. Altman. What can I say about Eric. Eric your warmth and ability to spread joy to everyone is a pleasure to behold. Yes, I am yanking your chain. But it was great seeing you!

Cliff Barackman. It's been years, but it was really great to see you again!! Thanks for the tape measure - I will use it with pride. I just wish you had handed them out to everyone with instructions.

Lyle Blackburn. It was great to finally meet you in person! Love the hat.

Mike Hall - who let you out of Texas? Whoever did, it was nice seeing you again after all these years.

Abe Del Rio - who else didn't recognize him? I sure didn't. I don't think he will mind my saying, he walked up to me to give me a hug, and I pulled back and said, "Who are you?" then checked his name tag. It was great seeing you Abe - you look great and I wish you nothing but the best!!

Guy Edwards. After finishing this article I will be going into traction after taking a picture with him. How tall are you? 8 feet? Dude! It was great to meet you after all these years.

Dax Rushlow. It was great meeting both you and your wife!! I never would have guessed you would have such a great sense of humor and such a big smile (yah I seen the picture). Seriously though, it was great to finally meet you both.

Now, for my rant. Take it as you will. Again for those of you without a sense of humor, buy or grow one before reading any further - or simply stop reading.

1. There were so many people, I could hardly make it to the bar. It's a good thing I don't drink, but a glass of water would have been nice.

2. Marc DeWerth - could you cram more venders into a 3 foot space? I bet you can. Please make note of that for next year. The doors in front of the bathrooms were free space. No worries, anyone will climb a vendor table to get to the bathroom.

3. People I didn't get to see - Trinetta Brown Jackson and William Dranginis. Seriously? How did that happen? I am sure it was partly my fault for not spending much time at the Lodge - but Bill you were making deliveries to various cabins, and donuts are my favorite food. You are elusive like bigfoot.

4. I finally had the chance to see and speak to Bob Gimlin on Sunday. Was he being hid in a closet somewhere? Geesh let the poor guy out from time to time. I have met and spoken with him before and I know he enjoys sunlight and air.

5. Question: When is the ONLY time a bigfooter doesn't get accused of using photoshop?

Answer: After taking a picture of someone at a conference or in the field. Seriously people. I know most of you use photoshop - could you cut some of us some slack? I know some of you take 500 pictures but that is no excuse for not taking the time to make us all look our stunning best.

End rant.

At the end of the day, or the conference, all that really matters is - did you have fun? Did you meet those you wanted to? If it was your goal to learn something - did you? That's all that matters. We spend such precious little time appreciating those around us - you know, the people we talk to online, as if Facebook is our real world. Anyone who says conferences aren't important doesn't know what their talking about.

Take from conferences what you can, discard what doesn't apply and go away with happy memories. We spend so much time disagreeing and reading about the latest fight or drama - it's a miracle we can even come together in one place at all.

If my rant made you laugh - great - because we don't do enough of that either.

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"Bigfoot Captured," on History Channel

So. Last night, the long anticipated, "Bigfoot Captured," aired on History Channel. I can't help but wonder how many people thought this was a legit capture of a Bigfoot.

Did you?

While I understand this was a 2-hour program that was total fiction there were some interesting moments and comments made.

1. The 3-D printer replication of what, Dr. Meldrum, thinks the skeleton of a Bigfoot might look like. I am going to assume he has settled on this, "Robust Australopithecines," as that is primarily what was used for the 3-D rendering.

If I am wrong about this, I welcome the correction.

2. Drones. You know when researchers first started using thermal imaging in the field everyone thought that technology could never be disputed.

It has. More than once.

I'm not saying I think drones are a waste of time but I just don't see them being technology someone won't find something to argue about. As we could all see from the footage of the drone on the show, you could make out an upright walking, something, but was it a human or was it a Bigfoot?

My guess is human as, Dr. Meldrum, and, Dr. Bindernagel, didn't rush to the scene.

Come on people - it was fiction!! Made you think about it though didn't I?

Is there a use for drones in this research? Yes. But I wouldn't count on footage from a drone convincing anyone of anything. So if you capture footage of a bigfoot from your drone, you'd better high tail it to the location and get some physical evidence.

But, even if you're armed with footage and biological evidence, whether you are believed or not, will still be a crap shoot.

So, good luck.

3. Loved their attempt at bigfoot vocals. Nothing really to add. Just loved it. Yes, I am being sarcastic. I will say this, once they had that Bigfoot in the cage, it started sounding more like Harry from the movie, "Harry and the Hendersons".

4. During the footage of the, "capture", there is talk about how human or not this animal is. One of the characters in the show says, "we will have to wait until it dies to find out." If you think Science is going to wait for a captured Bigfoot to die before they do the, "autopsy/necropsy of a lifetime," I'm willing to bet you have another thing coming. Sure Scientists will take the time to study and watch it's behavior - but I highly doubt they will bide their time and wait for this animal to die of natural causes.

It's just a hunch.

5. Then the statement I was waiting for. Should we even be looking for Bigfoot. Should we allow it to remain a mystery?

If you're a member of this community I know you've had this conversation a couple thousand times. Heck, I've devoted entire blog articles to this issue.

To discover, or not to discover, that is the question.

Talk to a witness and you will have a multitude of reasons for why discovery is important. But is the vindication of witnesses more important than leaving this animal alone to live its life in peace. Granted, this animal doesn't need our help for protection or survival. Although, with the encroachment of man into the wild areas of our country, that may become a more arguable point as years go by.

Humans need things like oil, natural gas, and coal. We need homes to live in. As populations rise we will see the need for more drilling and space to live in. So, while this animal (if out there) doesn't need our help for survival today, it may, in the near future. Lets face it. Drilling for oil, and the like, doesn't happen in cities.

What if we all decided to leave Bigfoot in peace and a mystery - and then it becomes extinct? Then we all lose the chance to at least know something this awesome once roamed our forests. If we know it exists, we can at least try to keep this animal from going extinct. If we can't prove it's existence now, we most certainly will not, if it's extinct.

Yes, I know I may suffer from the illness of thinking man can fix things. One thing's for certain. We will never know if we don't try.

All in all, the show wasn't too bad. Lets just say it wasn't the worst thing I have seen in reference to Bigfoot. The bigfoot costume was pretty good (as long as you didn't look at the face). The show was exactly what I expected.

Rock throwing, angry Bigfoot. They even threw in a running woman for good measure. I will admit, they managed to tug at my heart strings, as the Bigfoot sat in that cage.

What did you think of; "Bigfoot Captured"? 

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Come visit me on Facebook 

Wedding, Field Researchers, Scientists and ~ Oh my. :)

Life has a strange way of making, "plans," for us.

Both my blog, and I, have been pretty quiet since June of this year.

I know many of you wondered why, Melissa, has been keeping her unique brand of humor and honesty to herself ?? 

I know, it's been painful for you all but; 

Wayne and I finally decided to get married!!! 

6 years is a long time to live with someone - but when you enjoy spending time with that person and you share many of the same interests - it goes by much quicker than you would think.

Much has been made about the fact that Wayne and I were still not married after 4 years so I can only imagine what those same people were saying after we reached 5 and then approached 6 years. 

But, let's face it. I am, Melissa Hovey, do you think I care what others say about me or how they think our life should be going? Nope, not a bit. But I have enjoyed hearing what the Facebook psychiatrists have had to say. Wayne and I appreciate a good dose of humor now and again. 

The dirty, despicable, gut wrenching truth that will turn this community upside down is: 

Wayne, and I, were having too much fun getting into the woods and doing what we enjoy most. Looking for the elusive animal known as Bigfoot. We've also been working a private piece of land which has yielded some cool game cam pics and audio.  

We both knew a, wedding, would take us out of the field for quite some time. Why? Because weddings (like field research) cost lots of money and take a lot of time to plan.    

But as of October 18th Wayne and I are now married and we couldn't be happier. Thank you to all who offered congratulations and well wishes. It was a wonderful day and night filled with family, friends, food and fireworks. 

Now that I have started paying more attention to the larger community, 

I see nothing has changed.

So I didn't miss much. This year I have had to back away from the community a number of times so I could take care of things more important in life and every time I have said, "maybe something interesting will happen?" 

Never has. 

I have been just as disappointed as the newbies who want to read something cool or new - or just something interesting. Backing away from the community and looking from the outside gives one a unique perspective into what is really going on and how the online Bigfoot Community looks to the average person.... I gotta tell ya - it's not a good thing. 

You all should try it, if you never have. 

The blowhards still blow, the pseudo-scientists still think they know more than the scientists and everyone, the paranormal crowd still pushes their wares and the newbies are still sitting back and wondering, "what the hell?" 

Why do I say that? Because for all the, "talk," there should be something of value. Why is there nothing of value? Because those, field researchers, who have information refuse to talk (for good reason) publicly. 

More and more of the field researchers with years of experience are backing away from this online Bigfoot community. 

Let me fill you in on something about, "Science." 

Science is about discovery. Science doesn't care how that discovery happens, they only care when it does. You could be standing on a boulder, on one foot, rubbing your belly and singing, "it's a small world," when you snatched the hair off a Bigfoot's head or you lost your balance and scratched the Bigfoot with your finger nails and obtained biological evidence. I am willing to bet if you came out of the field with this evidence of blood, hair or tissue - something rock solid - a "Scientist," wouldn't care about that boulder you were standing on initially, or whether your singing was in tune, or your work experience, educational background or how many internet radio shows you've dissed people on, blogs, or whatever, but they would care about what that hair, blood, or tissue really is. 

Imagine that. 

Sure, they will listen to your story but a good scientist wants that discovery of an unknown primate as much as you do. Science is all about discovery that is what scientists do. Listen to what they are asking of us, not what the pseudo-Facebook-scientists are telling you to do. Scientific discoveries don't happen over night either they take years and years and years and - you get it. 

It's not HOW it happens - it's whether it HAS happened. 

So, listen to what the scientific community is telling us, 

And lets just do what their asking. They don't want us to stop looking - just to refine our methods of evidence collection. Technology is catching up - and we should be prepared so that what we are gathering as, "evidence," can be tested and run through the rigors of the scientific process. I'm not a scientist - but I am tired of hearing the skeptics hide behind science. That's an easy win for any skeptic when it comes to putting down someone who actively researches this mystery. Why? Because nothing we've done has been proven and stamped as a, "scientific discovery." 

But, I digress. 

The other night I had a very interesting conversation with someone who has spent years and years around this community and has been a friend to most. I wasn't surprised by what this person said but it did set me back in my chair a bit when he/she said, 

"I just don't care about Bigfoot anymore." 

Honestly, I am hearing that more and more. I asked this person, "Why do you feel that way," and the response was deja vu, "I'm just tired of all the hostility." 

Yeah there is enough of that to go around in this community. 

What's sad though is;

The majority of the hostility, comes from the people who spend little to no time at all in the field, or they do get into the field, but don't discuss their field work. They would rather spend their days tearing down other field researchers and telling everyone how much more they know than everyone else. When in reality, they know nothing more than the people they rip apart over personal issues. It's really unbelievable. 

Especially when you factor in, just a couple years ago, these same people were telling everyone how there are no, "experts," in this field of research. It's really quite funny to listen to them go on and on about how much the field researchers don't know but, by god, you better listen to them.

Do as I say, not as I do, has become very popular.  

These angry individuals would have nothing to talk about if it weren't for the work being done by others and; no one would even know their names, if it weren't for the hard work of others. The irony is astounding when you really think about it. 

And people call me a Narcissist. I know, but at least they spelled it right.

Don't worry peeps, Wayne, had me tested and the results were negative. :)

All I know is this;

To those of you who get into the field - keep getting out there. Keep researching and keep working to try and solve this. Don't let the hostility get to you. Don't let the negative attitude of someone else ruin something you enjoy doing. If you want to discuss science - talk to a scientist. You will find one or two in this community with scientific credentials - online - and I promise you they don't have a group Facebook or fan page. 

Talk to others who are field researchers, who can offer you positive feed back and CONSTRUCTIVE criticism. If you want to be trashed and put down - I am sure you can get that in your daily life - why are you getting online to be called horrible names and put down? Talking to other field researchers should be fun and if not educational - at least we should get something from the time we spend online talking and maybe something we might be able to use in the field or at least try. 

Facebook has not been good for this community - at all. Other than giving us access to one another - what has the positive side been? There is more hostility today than when the old BFF was running full speed. 

Okay, calm down - you knew eventually - someone would say it out loud. 

My concern is simply this: good field researchers will leave this field all together because of the childish nature of others who really couldn't give two shakes about the animal or the actual work being done. It's already happening, but if it were to become a tidal wave, then we are throwing witnesses to the wolves. How fair is that to them? And, yes, we do need witnesses. Anyone who says different doesn't understand the research at all. 

Something has to change. 

Maybe field researchers need to go back to closed website forums just so we can discuss ideas without being throttled - because someone else is having a bad day or life. I don't know what the answer is but something needs to change.

I know this will anger the truly self-entitled but I'm just gonna say it because it's true, 

If we are not physically in an area actively researching the area, or we weren't involved in the activity being discussed, we can't possibly know all there is to know about what's really going on. 

We can guess. But unless we are the researcher working that property - all we can truly go on is speculation based on what we're being told. No field researcher, worth their salt, is ever going to get online and tell the world everything about the activity their researching. Why? Because it's called "research." Field researchers get online to discuss and try to come up with ideas. We're not telling the world everything - because we are still researching - we don't have all the answers. We say it all the time, but it's more fun for the skeptics to ignore the fact that researchers happily admit we don't have all the answers.    

Now, am I saying it's bad to disagree with someone? 

No. 

Even the most experienced field researchers will tell you they disagree with most of what they read, hear or see. But - it's the way it's being done. 

We have to bring back, "constructive criticism," to this community. If you don't know what that is, I would encourage a browse of a dictionary. Look it up. You will see just how little we have of that within this community. 

Anyone with a keyboard and hours to waste can get online and call anyone filthy names. It doesn't take talent or even knowledge of the topic. It just takes inner hostility that needs to be released. Why we as a community would encourage these people is beyond me.

We should be encouraging those who want to add something to this field work. Not those with a bad attitude and are in dire need of therapy - the true narcissists. 

A new year is fast approaching. We can either make this a year where we move forward, or we can stay in the rut we're all in now. And unless someone can provide something of substance - then we (as a community) are in a rut. Argue that all you want. That is the cold hard truth and the sooner we deal with it and come up with a way to move forward the better off we will all be - or we can continue with the status quo which has gotten us nowhere and that rut will only get bigger. 

I know what I plan to do and it has nothing to do with encouraging bad behavior. 

Let's face it, haters are gonna hate, and as a wise person once told me, "it doesn't matter how many times you explain something, you will get the same question over and over and asked a different way every time because they think they will trip you up. It doesn't matter what you say, people will always believe, what they want." 

It's true. Oh my - is it true. :) 

Book Review: Patty A Sasquatch Story, Written by Michael Mayes with Illustrations by Robert Swain.

Cover of "Patty a Sasquatch Story
Written by Michael Mayes
Illustrations by Robert Swain

I don’t write book reviews often; in fact I think I have done two. The book I am reviewing in this article is so special I had to bring it to the attention of everyone.

Patty A Sasquatch Story; 

A children’s book written by Michael Mayes and Illustrated by Robert Swain.

While I say this is a children’s book, this is the kind of book a parent can read with their child, and learn some pretty interesting information themselves. This I will talk about in a bit.

Patty A Sasquatch Story is the “ugly duckling” story – updated with a Bigfoot theme. Pretty smart and something I haven’t seen done before. What’s even more interesting is how Michael has woven information about a specific historical account, to not just tell a story, but to teach children a little about the Patterson/Gimlin film.

In the back of the book is a section called, “The Sasquatch Insider” which is a kind of reference guide to words, names and other things, Bigfoot related that are discussed within the book itself. This portion of the book is worth the time all by itself.

I thought this book was wonderful. Not only did Michael find a new and interesting way to tell one of the sweetest stories, but he found a way of doing it, while teaching children some very interesting information.  I did have a little trouble reading some pages, dark print on dark pages, but that is a minor issue when you take in the totality of the book and the positive information and lesson it teaches children.

Robert Swain did a fantastic job on the illustrations – which are worthy of purchasing – I hope he sells prints.

To be honest, we need more books like this with stories that teach children about this topic, without scaring the bejezzus out of them.

So kudos to Michael and Robert!! It is my sincere hope this is the first in a long line of books geared toward children with a positive message about the topic of Bigfoot. 

If you are interested in purchasing this book here are few links: 

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Books a Million

Back cover of: Patty A Sasquatch Story

Tonight on Blogtalk Radio !!

Tonight

The SquatchDetective Steve Kulls returns, to BlogTalk Radio at 8:00 PM Eastern, with guest Guy Edwards of the Blog site "The Bigfoot Lunch Club".

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/squatchdetective/2014/01/17/squatchdetective-radio-guy-edwards-bigfooot-lunch-club

After you finish listening to the, SquatchDetective;

Larry Battson's Wild World is also live on Blogtalk Radio at 10:00 PM with guest Willie Wilcox of Utopia. Right now Willlie is on tour with ZZ Top. Bet he has some stories to tell !!

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/larry-battson/2014/01/17/larry-battsons-wild-world-welcomes-willie-wilcox



That is all folks, Have a GREAT DAY !!

News ~ What's Going On !!

Here is the latest relevant news within our community ~ in no particular order. 

Tonight Adam Davies will be on Sharon Lee's radio program!! Hear for yourself about his Orang Pendek work!! There is a special time for this show (I am sure it's due to Adams location) of 2 PM Eastern time. But, no worries, It will be archived so you can listen later. 

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/bigfootfieldreporter/2014/01/15/adam-davies

Peter Weimer of Wewanchu Cottages and the Bigfoot Expo in Chatauqua Lake has something worth checking out January 16 and the 19th -- so this weekend in Cleveland. Check it out!!

http://www.sportandtravelexpo.com/Default.aspx

Creature Weekend just made a fantastic announcement!! John Mionczynski has been listed as a speaker for this years event!!! 

Visit http://www.creatureweekend.com/ for more information!! I have never heard John Mionczynski or Bill Munns speak, but from what I hear, it's worth every single second.

Cabelas Strange, Rare and Unusual Sightings Weekend: Coming up March 14,15,16. Check out their facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/events/1437055033190324/

Of course, Bigfoot Bounty, will be on Friday night again for Episode 2 on SpikeTV. What will this wacky cast of characters be up to this week? From the promos it looks like, the highly anticipated, dagger slinging will begin. Tune in and find out http://www.spike.com/shows/bigfoot-bounty  

Check local listings for time and channel in your area. 

But, here is a bit of reading. Guy Edwards posted a blog on "The Bigfoot Lunch Club" in reference to their ratings for the premiere. Don't worry Fans, there is still time to pull this out of the fire. It's only the first episode. 

http://www.bigfootlunchclub.com/2014/01/gold-treehouses-sci-fi-antiques-and.html



Have a great day everyone !!!!

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Bigfoot Discovery Museum!! Go check em out !!!

Wanna spend a great day learning about Bigfoot? Do you live in, or will you be in California? Visit Mike Ruggs Bigfoot Discovery Museum. I hear all kinds of great things about this Museum and, Mike Rugg, is a fantastic guy. 

Stop in and check out the museum. I am sure you will learn lots and have a good time while doing it. 

You can also visit them online at:  

http://bigfootdiscoveryproject.com/


Have a great day everyone !!!!

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Justins Response Part 2: Emails Returned.

As promised, I sent emails out. No one could go on the record but I was able to have a chat on Twitter with Jon Kroll who is the Executive Producer for Bigfoot Bounty. 

Twitter is a tough place to get answers to questions. 

Here is what he said. I gotta tell ya, nothing surprises me anymore. I honestly feel bad for Justin. But I don't blame people in this community for being angry. We heard this coming from his mouth. Pretty seamlessly too.

According to Mr. Kroll, Justin knew this would be aired and understood, so should I feel bad?? 

But, Justin was right and when I make a promise I keep it. 

Shame on Spike TV for doing this. It was not necessary. But, thank you Mr. Kroll for explaining. 

Edited to add:  Just so I don't get accused of jacking his comments without his permission, by those who should have done this to begin with, but instead chose to sit back and complain.

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As for the gentleman out there accusing me of causing trouble for Justin, and calling me a word that rhymes with "itch", let me just say this. 

I don't know what I did to you, other than not giving you information about a personal matter, you were not paying the bill for, and was none of your business. Yes, I accepted your apology. Trust is earned not simply given. You did exactly what I thought you would do. I am not stupid. Call me whatever names you like, but don't you think your time would have been better served doing what I did? Sending emails to try and vindicate Justin? Instead you threw a hissy fit. As much as you would like to pin this mess on me, the words did not come from my mouth, and I was not even close to being the first person to make this information public. I still don't know why Justin would say such a thing considering all the work done to distance this from the "cat vet." But, whatever. 

In the future, control your temper and maybe do what is necessary to clear up confusion. Not add to it and the drama.

P.S. I'm glad I told you nothing. You had the information right in front of you and you still got it wrong. By the way, a friend doesn't do what you did - regardless of how entitled they think they are. 

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