1.26.8: BoA:Audio update & In-House Notes

Ahoy hoy, my friends. Yes, it is my birthday. I'm an old fuck now. Forgive me if I start to forget stuff or develop incontinence.

BoA:Audio returns next week (2.2.8)



The 2.2.8 guest will be UFOMystic's own Greg Bishop. We'll be doing an in-depth look @ 2007 in Ufology, from the O'Haire story in January of '07 to Japan's UFO "disclosure" in December of '07 and all the big stories in between. This is definitely a loose edition of the show, more like a conversation, where Greg and I give some big picture analysis to the top UFO stories of 2007 and what they really mean in the long run for the UFO scene. Plus, at the end there is some discussion on Lohn John Nebel and contactees. In total, the interview runs well over 2 hours, so it's a big one and the perfect episode to kick off the 2nd half of Season III.

I was weary of doing a 2007 recap episode, but then searched around online and couldn't find any good '07 Ufology recap, at least from the perspective that I wanted to tackle, so I think this episode will be enjoyed by UFO aficionados who listen to BoA:Audio.

After the 2.2.8 episode, we already have a bunch of new stuff taped, including a couple of interviews dealing with esoterica's field du jour: ghost hunting. We'll explore this red hot genre with a science based ghost researcher and an A-list name in the ghost field. Despite not being a huge fan of that aspect of esoterica, I enjoyed both interviews immensely and we really took a nice look, from afar, at what has become esoterica's break-out field over the last few years.

In addition to that, we've got a massive interview with a fairly new player on the international UFO scene. This guest will be giving his first ever American interview. Chances are that you haven't heard of him yet, but I'm hoping that this interview will help to establish him on the American Ufology map. As an added teaser, I'll say that the interview establishes a BoA beachhead on a whole new continent, where we have yet to venture in our quest for global esoteric guests.

Plus, we've got an assload of interviews that are in the finalization phase, so I expect to be taping pretty regularly for the next month, at least. More details to follow in the days and weeks to come.



binnall on Spooky Southcoast



As mentioned last week, I was an in-studio guest on the Spooky Southcoast radio show, which emanates from WBSM, here in Massachusetts. Having done all my previous interviews on podcasts and running my own podcast, it was nice to see "how the other half lives" and the inner workings of a terrestrial radio show.

You can find my appearance, complete with MP3 download and Streaming Audio capabilities HERE. I was only on briefly @ the beginning of the show and then quite a bit during the 2nd hour. My good friend Chris Balzano was also a guest.

I should also mention that I spend some time this past month giving the SSC website a complete makeover and trying to develop into a more user-friendly site, with a completely work-able archive (something they didn't have before) and MP3 downloads for each episode. So if you check out the site, you'll probably notice a heavy BoA influence, since I am the one who designed it.



BoA:D.C. is coming in February



I don't have too much to report about our exciting new project, BoA:D.C., except to show off the logo. I expect to really be diving into work on it this coming week, so we should have more info soon. I can say that it will be cool and it will be unveiled in February at some point.

Other Stuff

Not much else going on, really. I want to give kudos to the great BoA staff who have been doing the bulk of the updates @ BoA this month while I have been working on gathering up new interviews for BoA:Audio. Lesley, Khyron, Regan, Tina, and our newest columnist Richelle, have been rolling out some awesome material week in and week out. You definitely want to check out their columns @ BoA.

I'm looking forward to the return of Lost on Thursday. I probably won't have the detailed "Lost Thoughts" that I did last season, but I may find a way to slip some thoughts onto the blog somewhere.

Till next week when the show resumes, this is binnall wishing you a great week and signing off.

1.19.8: BoA on SSC and In-House Notes

I'm heading down to Southeastern MA tonight with my friend Christopher Balzano. He'll be the guest on the Spooky Southcoast radio show on WBSM AM in Fairhaven, MA. The show airs from 10 PM to Midnight (ET) and you can find listening information on their site.

I've recently become acquainted with the SSC crew, as I've spent the last couple of weeks giving their website a full re-design (to be unveiled on 1.26.8), and they've asked me to join in on the episode tonight, so I may pop-in at some point during their broadcast, though I'm not sure how extensive my involvement will be.

I'll have details post-show for folks who may want to check out my appearance or the Spooky Southcoast program, in general.

BoA In-House Notes

BoA:Audio returns on 2.2.8. Our guest will be ufomystic's own Greg Bishop for a lengthy discussion on the past year in Ufology. We'll talk about all the major UFO stories from 2007 and what they mean to the big picture of Ufology. More details next week, when we roll out a more formal preview.

We're right in the thick of production on new episodes of BoA:Audio. We've taped the Greg Bishop episode and another episode covering a new topic, for us, ghost hunting. I'm also taping an interview with a major name in the ghost genre next week as well, so we'll be delving into that realm for a bit during the 2nd half of Season III. Plus, I've been very busy tracking down new and exotic international guests for interview to air sometime in the not too distant future.

I'm also in the beginning stages of a new project that we are tenatively calling "BoA:D.C." I'll have more information on that very soon, but for now I can just say that it will be a different genre for BoA and will open up the franchise to a whole new audience to discover our off-kilter brand of esoteric entertainment.

12.28.7 : Nick Redfern on BoA : Audio, preview

NOTE :: As a result of holiday delays, this week's audio will probably be posted on Sunday afternoon / evening. 1000 apologies and thanks for your patience.

THIS WEEK : Nick Redfern, "Memoirs of a Monster Hunter"



Ultra popular former BoA : Audio, Season One guest Nick Redfern returns to the program to help us close out 2007 and talk about his latest book, "Memoirs of a Monster Hunter". We'll discuss the personal elements to "Memoirs", Nick's big picture thoughts on what is really at work behind paranormal phenomenon, some fascinating perspective from Nick on present day Ufology, the deification of Roswell and how it could inadvertantly be devastating for the field. We get Nick's thoughts on handling new story leads, his field work in Texas looking for ghost lights, his two trips to Puerto Rico and how they changed his thoughts on the Chupacabra. Plus, the synchronicity theme of "Memoirs", UK field research v. US field research, the "lost mysteries of esoterica", questions from BoA staff and listeners, and tons more.

It's an enlightening two hour conversation with one of the fastest rising superstars in esoterica, Nick Redfern.

***
NEXT WEEK : No Episode

BoA : Audio will be on our annual winter hiatus.

Throughout January, we will be taping a whole new batch of interviews for 2008, featuring key figures in various esoteric fields.

All new BoA : Audio episodes will return at the end of January.

12.21.7 : Stan Friedman on BoA : Audio, preview

THIS WEEK : Stanton Friedman on the 3rd Annual BoA : Audio Holiday Special


Ufology legend Stanton Friedman returns to the program for our third annual BoA : Audio Holiday Special. Stan will be talking about his new book "Captured : The Betty and Barney Hill Experience", Ufological history, and science v. UFO studies.

We give Stan the floor for the first half hour as he goes over, in tremendous detail, a variety of elements to the Betty and Barney Hill abduction case including the role of the case in getting people interested in the UFO phenomenon, the importance of Dr. Simon to the veracity of the case, and why the Star Map aspect is key to the whole story. There's also a great discussion on Ufological history, especially the immediate post-Condon period of UFO studies and why things seemed to go so wrong for Ufology from there. Stan talks about the incorrect assumption by skeptics regarding repeatability as tantamount to studying UFOs, esoteric elements to the Hill case, his interest in pilot shoot-downs of UFOs in the 1950's, his next book which he dubs his "magnus opus", and, of course, tons more.

It's our fourth interview with Stan, his third holiday special on BoA : Audio, and another classic interview to stand alongside his previous visits to the show.


***

NEXT WEEK : Nick Redfern, "Memoirs of a Monster Hunter"



Ultra popular former BoA : Audio, Season One guest Nick Redfern returns to the program to help us close out 2007 and talk about his latest book, "Memoirs of a Monster Hunter". We'll discuss the personal elements to "Memoirs", Nick's big picture thoughts on what is really at work behind paranormal phenomenon, some fascinating perspective from Nick on present day Ufology, the deification of Roswell and how it could inadvertantly be devastating for the field. We get Nick's thoughts on handling new story leads, his field work in Texas looking for ghost lights, his two trips to Puerto Rico and how they changed his thoughts on the Chupacabra. Plus, the synchronicity theme of "Memoirs", UK field research v. US field research, the "lost mysteries of esoterica", questions from BoA staff and listeners, and tons more.

It's an enlightening two hour conversation with one of the fastest rising superstars in esoterica, Nick Redfern.

12.14.7 : Nick Pope on BoA : Audio preview

NOTE :: Much like last weekend, this week's audio will almost certainly be delayed, due to a variety of circumstances. So ... expect the show to be posted on Sunday evening or so. 1000 apologies and thanks for your patience.

THIS WEEK : Nick Pope, Former Head of the British MOD UFO Project



One of the most frequently requested guests over the last two years finally comes to BoA : Audio, as the venerable Nick Pope joins the program. In this conversation, we'll discuss a myriad of topics, including but not limited to: his role in investigating UFO reports for the Ministry of Defence, what's become of his post in the last few years, the unique circumstances to his meteoric rise to fame in esoteric and mainstream circles, how extensive his interraction was with US/UK UFO groups and other international officials during tenure as MOD UFO investigator, the 1993 Cosford incident, the UK UFO files, what became of the "best cases" that Nick investigated, the media firestorm surrounding his comments from last November, his thoughts on 911, Ufology v. Science, and tons and tons more.

Having heard countless interviews with Nick over the years, we aimed to bring some new questions and new points of view to the table. The result was an enlighting discussion on Ufology, including exploration of some of our favorite topics like the sociology of the UFO field and the international nature of UFO studies, amongst other heady topics.

His website is http://www.nickpope.net/

***

NEXT WEEK : The BoA : Audio Christmas Special



We usually don't announce the guest until the episode is taped and this episode is scheduled to be taped on Wednesday 12.19, to air over the weekend of 12.22/23, just in time for the holidays, so we'll hold off on revealing the guest's name.

But, long-time BoA : Audio listeners should be able to figure out who the guest will be, as '07 will be his third year on our holiday festivus.

Full preview to be rolled out next week.

11.30.7 : Keith Chester (Part 2) on BoA : Audio preview

THIS WEEK : Keith Chester (Part 2 of 2), "Strange Company : Military Encounters with UFOs in WWII"



Our conversation with Keith Chester continues as we discuss why the Foo Fighter sightings probably weren't St. Elmo's Fire, Foo Fighters and radar, similarities and differences between Europe and the Pacific with regards to aerial phenomena, post-war information gleaned about the Foo Fighters, and the potential for German UFO technology.

We'll delve into big picture questions like Keith thoughts on the Foo Fighters as a whole, how the Foo Fighter phenomena fits into the theory that nuclear testing attracted the UFOs, what did the government really think the Foo Fighters were, and the trials and tribulations of finding witness testimony to the Foo Fighter era. Additionally, there's we talk about Keith's mentor Len Stringfield and his role in shaping Ufology. Plus, of course, tons more.

You can check out more info on "Strange Company" @ the Anomalist Books website.

***
NEXT WEEK : Jeremy Vaeni, "Culture of Contact"



Prolific estoeric pundit Jeremy Vaeni joins BoA : Audio for a freewheeling hour and a half long interview. We'll be discussing the evolution of Jeremy's abduction experience, his theory on what the abductors are all about, his film "No One's Watching An Alien Abductee's Story", his entry into the field of esoterica and his take on Ufology from an abductee's point of view.

Plus we'll cover his trip to the X-Conference this past September, his book "I Know Why the Aliens Don't Land", disclosure, young people in Ufology, and policing the UFO world. In addition to all that, we have some laughs about angels, ass shots, and Alfred Webre's 911 theories. And, of course, tons more.

Jeremy's website is www.valiens.com

11.23.7 : Keith Chester (Part 1) on BoA : Audio preview

THIS WEEK : Keith Chester (Part 1 of 2), "Strange Company : Military Encounters with UFOs in WWII"



The first half of a massive interview with Keith Chester about his excellent book "Strange Company", detailing the often overlooked but critically important Foo Fighter era in Ufology. In this installment, we cover the surprising variety of actual Foo Fighter objects that were reported to be seen, how the Allied Forces investigated the Foo Fighters, notable figures from that era, ten key Foo Fighter cases discussed in detail, and the explosion of the Foo Fighter story on American shores. And that's just Part One.

It's an intensely thorough edition of BoA : Audio, where you're almost guaranteed to walk away having learned something new. A must-hear episode for any serious student of Ufology.

NEXT WEEK : Keith Chester (Part 2 of 2), "Strange Company : Military Encounters with UFOs in WWII"

Our conversation with Keith Chester continues as we discuss why the Foo Fighter sightings probably weren't St. Elmo's Fire, Foo Fighters and radar, similarities and differences between Europe and the Pacific with regards to aerial phenomena, post-war information gleaned about the Foo Fighters, and the potential for German UFO technology.

We'll delve into big picture questions like Keith thoughts on the Foo Fighters as a whole, how the Foo Fighter phenomena fits into the theory that nuclear testing attracted the UFOs, what did the government really think the Foo Fighters were, and the trials and tribulations of finding witness testimony to the Foo Fighter era. Additionally, there's we talk about Keith's mentor Len Stringfield and his role in shaping Ufology. Plus, of course, tons more.

11.16.7 : BoA : Audio's Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash special ... preview

THIS WEEK :: Mass UFO Show / Mass Monster Mash special ... featuring Loren Coleman, Chris Balzano, Carl Feindt, Don Ledger, and Chris Styles



On site interviews from the Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash esoteric double-bill. Loren Coleman covers the Dover Demon, Bridgewater Triangle, and the VT shooting. Chris Balzano discusses his work exploring Massachusetts paranormal folklore and phantom clowns. Carl Feindt details his work looking at Unidentified Subermerged Objects, Don Ledger tells us about his research into Black Triangles and Shag Harbour, and Chris Styles gives us an update on what's he's been up to since last Spring's BoA : Audio appearance plus his thoughts on being so closely associated with one specific UFO case. Plus, Don Keating joins us, post-conference,to talk about the white Bigfoot and Ohio cryptozoology.

Six guests in total. Easily a dozen different topics covered. Over an hour and a half of esoteric audio, caught on-the-fly direct from the proceedings in Watertown, MA.


NEXT WEEK : Keith Chester (Part 1 of 2), "Strange Company : Military Encounters with UFOs in WWII"



The first half of a massive interview with Keith Chester about his excellent book "Strange Company", detailing the often overlooked but critically important Foo Fighter era in Ufology. In this installment, we cover the surprising variety of actual Foo Fighter objects that were reported to be seen, how the Allied Forces investigated the Foo Fighters, notable figures from that era, ten key Foo Fighter cases discussed in detail, and the explosion of the Foo Fighter story on American shores. And that's just Part One.

It's an intensely thorough edition of BoA : Audio, where you're almost guaranteed to walk away having learned something new. A must-hear episode for any serious student of Ufology.


OTHER STUFF :

2007 Zorgy Awards :: BoA : Audio has been nominated for Paul Kimball's prestigious Zorgy Awards in the category of Top Podcast. Please vote for our humble program, listed as "Binnall of America". You can vote here : 2007 Zorgy Voting Page. Thanks for your support.

Also, BoA's Lesley sees her blog "The Debris Field" nominated in two categories, so feel free to throw some love her way as well. She's up for "Best Paranormal Blog" and "Best Website [news summary]".


New BoA Merchandise :: I'm happy to report that the BoA Line is nearly complete. Our target date to roll out the new stuff on the Friday after Thanksgiving, known affectionately as "Black Friday". As teased @ the end of the last few weeks of BoA : Audio, we're moving away from straight BoA related stuff and into more general paranormal friendly items that, we think, help to convey a message that any hardcore esoteric enthusiast would want to display.

Stay tuned to BoA for the grand unveiling around the end of next week.

11.9.7 : Greg Reece on BoA : Audio preview

THIS WEEK :: Greg Reece, UFO Religion



BoA : Audio goes beyond the lights in the sky with Greg Reece, author of "UFO Religion". In this tremendously deep episode, we discuss belief systems associated with the UFO phenomenon, ranging from the dichotomy of "nuts and bolts Ufology" v. the "lunatic fringe", the contactee movement, UFO cults, mainstream religions with UFO elements within them, and how UFO revelations may affect Christianity. We'll be talking about the paradox of the ancient astronaut theory along with the paradox of Ufology v. Science. Plus, Greg's problems with abduction research, how UFOs get blamed for everything paranormal, "new gods" v. "old gods", fear as the driving force behind Ufology, and, of course, tons more. This interview covers a myriad of big picture questions with regards to Ufology and belief that will provide a wealth of food for thought.

***

NEXT WEEK :: Mass UFO Show / Mass Monster Mash special ... featuring Loren Coleman, Chris Balzano, Carl Feindt, Don Ledger, and Chris Styles



On site interviews from the Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash esoteric double-bill. Loren Coleman covers the Dover Demon, Bridgewater Triangle, and the VT shooting. Chris Balzano discusses his work exploring Massachusetts paranormal folklore and phantom clowns. Don Keating talks about the white Bigfoot and Ohio cryptozoology. Carl Feindt details his work looking at Unidentified Subermerged Objects, Don Ledger tells us about his research into Black Triangles and Shag Harbour, and Chris Styles gives us an update on what's he's been up to since last Spring's BoA : Audio appearance plus his thoughts on being so closely associated with one specific UFO case.

It's the closest you can get to being there, as BoA : Audio brings you this fantastic mix of esoteric audio taped on location at the festivities.

11.2.7 : Danny Hennigar on BoA : Audio preview

This Week :: Danny Hennigar, the Oak Island Money Pit Mystery

BoA : Audio revisits our Summer expedition as Danny Hennigar joins BoA : Audio to discuss the Oak Island Mystery. We are going to explore this over 200 year old esoteric landmark, including how it all started, how it has evolved over the years, the popular theories as to what is at the bottom of the Oak Island Money Pit, the famous Oak Island side stories like the death of Robert Restall, Nolan's Cross, and Borehole 10x. Plus we are going to find out the latest news on what is going on @ Oak Island today. And, of course, tons and tons more. This is a richly detailed edition of BoA : Audio, covering an often over-looked realm of esoterica: Oak Island.

Danny's website is www.oakislandsociety.ca


Next Week :: Greg Reece, "UFO Religion"

BoA : Audio goes beyond the lights in the sky with Greg Reece, author of "UFO Religion". In this tremendously deep episode, we discuss belief systems associated with the UFO phenomenon, ranging from the dichotomy of "nuts and bolts Ufology" v. the "lunatic fringe", the contactee movement, UFO cults, mainstream religions with UFO elements within them, and how UFO revelations may affect Christianity. We'll be talking about the paradox of the ancient astronaut theory along with the paradox of Ufology v. Science. Plus, Greg's problems with abduction research, how UFOs get blamed for everything paranormal, "new gods" v. "old gods", fear as the driving force behind Ufology, and, of course, tons more. This interview covers a myriad of big picture questions with regards to Ufology and belief that will provide a wealth of food for thought.

Greg's website is www.uforeligion.com

10.19.7 : Jim Marrs on BoA : Audio, Season III preview

It's been such an insane week here @ BoA HQ that a lot of the pre-season hype has fallen to the wayside. Instead, we'll leave you with this text preview of tomorrow's BoA : Audio, Season III premiere with our special guest Jim Marrs ...

For the third year in a row, BoA : Audio kicks off its new season with legendary esoteric researcher Jim Marrs. This time around the bend, we'll be discussing Psi Spies, which was re-released this past Summer with a wealth of new material.

In our conversation, we discuss the US Army Remote Viewing program, its birth, evolution, and demise. We delve into the weirder elements, like international Psi spy confrontations, the Enigma file, the curious case of Phobos II, and how the UFO phenomenon fits into the Psi Spy story. We'll also the controversy within the RV community, once the Psi Spy unit disbanded, and how the field has changed since moving into the private sector. Plus, thoughts from Jim on the past year in Ufology & the 911 Movement, and, of course, tons and tons more.

Jim Marrs website is www.jimmarrs.com

Next Week :: TBA tomorrow. We're still fine tuning the schedule.

Other Notes :: As of this writing, we literally have the next 8 weeks of BoA : Audio, Season III taped. I've fallen somewhat behind on the post-production end, hence the lack of teasers, schedule, or even a Hot Newz this week. That said, I'd rather have this problem than the problem of having nothing to follow up our season premiere.

I know Hot Newz will be back next week and I'll be spending most of Sunday and Monday editing the episodes we have taped already. Hopefully we'll be caught up with the behind the scenes work by mid-week next week.

I'll have much much more to say about all this tomorrow on the Season Premiere of BoA : Audio, Season III. Talk to you then !

10.7.7 : binnall report

We're a little behind schedule this week, as I've been pretty much enthralled by the baseball playoffs and when the Red Sox games are on, all work must stop. Hopefully this will be a trend that will continue throughout October. Sorry to see the Cubs get eliminated yesterday, they were my pick from the National League.

Anyway, we've got a few interesting items in this week's report. There's some more info on the upcoming premiere of BoA : Audio, Season III, a fairly in-depth preview next weekend's esoteric double-bill that is the Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash, some brief Coast Notes, and the usual Pop Culture Thoughts coupled with End Notes.

BoA : Audio, Season III ... 10.20.7

Less than weeks from today, 10.20.7, the underground esoteric sensation, BoA : Audio, returns for our landmark third season. I'm happy to report that in about one week's time, we ought to have all of the next six weeks worth of programs locked in and ready to roll out throughout October and November. December will most likely be the month which sees the return of many favorites from season's past, culminating in our annual Christmas Special, with you-know-who.

As noted in this space a few weeks back, our Season Premiere will "air" on 10.20.7 with the venerable and legendary Jim Marrs, discussing the re-release of his book "Psi Spies" plus his thoughts on the last year in Ufology and 911 research.

Once again, I'm going to hold off on naming names just yet, but will say that amongst the episodes to be aired will be an in-depth discussion on an infamous and long-running esoteric mystery, along with the first ever interview from a newcomer to the field of Ufology who's new book serves as a refreshing look at the UFO field from a reputable outsider. We'll also be featuring our first "theme" episode of the new season as well as an interview covering an often overlooked, but critical, era in UFO history.

The audio preview for the new season will serve notice that BoA : Audio is coming back in a big way. We expect to have it up and running around the end of next week as we wind down the days until we storm the internet airwaves again.

Stay tuned ...

Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash preview

I am now 100% confirmed to be in attendance at next weekend's esoteric double-bill that is the Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash in nearby Watertown, Massachusetts, next weekend (October 12th & 13th). Having spoken with conference organizer, John Horrigan, I've been assured that BoA will be allowed nearly unfettered access to the event, allowing your humble correspondent some really cool behind the scenes insight into the festivities.

This second annual event is New England's largest paranormal conference. It's the perfect opportunity for the many esoteric enthusiasts in the area to convene, discuss the paranormal, and have some fun. Last year's version was a pretty big success and generated a ton of buzz, so I expect that this year's installment will be more of the same. From what I understand, tickets are still available, but are going fast, which is always a good sign.

Without any further superfluous discussion, let's take a look at some of the esoteric happenings scheduled for this jam packed weekend ...

Friday night's Mass UFO Show kicks off @ 7 PM and features an interesting crew of UFO researchers. For starters, former BoA : Audio guest Chris Styles will be discussing the famous Shag Harbour UFO case. Don Ledger will be talking about the "black triangle" phenomenon. Carl Feindt will be there to talk about the USO (Unidentified Submarine Objects) enigma, one of the UFO field's less discussed peripheral mysteries. Nancy Talbott will be covering the Crop Circle phenomenon. And, the event's host John Horrigan will be revealing, for the first time ever, his footage from the Roswell 50th anniversary, including what has been dubbed the "controversial press conference". The night will be co-hosted by Matt Moniz, who has been involved in a number of key UFO cases over the years.

I'm looking forward to meeting Chris Styles after talking to him, at length, on a number of occassions last Spring. All of the presentations sound interesting, but Carl Feindt's session on USOs piques my interest the most, since that phenomenon remains on the edge of most UFO discussion. It should be an enlightening evening all around.

Saturday night, beginning begin @ 6 PM, is the Mass Monster Mash, which is devoted to a mix of cryptozoology and ghostly type stuffs. The big draw is, of course, esoteric superstar Loren Coleman, who has done a ton of research on the various mysteries in New England and will be talking about the Dover Demon in what is billed as a "rare Boston appearance". Other presenters include Jeff Belanger, discussing poltergeists, Don Keating covering the Ohio Bigfoot, and Karen Mossey talking about EVPs.

Additionally, Tom D'Agostino, author of "Haunted Rhode Island", Kristyn Gartland, a member of the TAPS franchise from "Ghost Hunters" infamy, and Chris Pittman, Bridgewater Triangle expert, are also scheduled for appearances in roles billed as "Special Guests" for the Mass Monster Mash.

Another special guest will be my friend Christopher Balzano, of Massachusetts Paranormal Crossroads, who has three new books that are set to roll out starting in early 2008. He's also been waiting patiently for me to get him a copy of that After Dark article I wrote about our trip to the Bridgewater Triangle last April, so I can finally cross that off my "to do" list.

On top of all that, the esoteric radio show "Spooky Southcoast" will be broadcasting from the event throughout the weekend. I've heard a lot of good things about SS over the past few months, so it should be cool to hear their show and see them doing it in person. Along with the speakers and special guests, there will also be "a trivia contest, souvenirs, concessions, exhibits, a slideshow, and a Q&A session" scheduled for both nights of the conference. Sounds like a killer weekend of esoterica and entertainment.

As long-time BoA readers may recall from my previous writings, the real thrill of an event like this is seeing the people in attendance. Despite how pervasive BoA has been on the national stage, I'm not a big socializer in the Massachusetts pararnormal scene. So there is a pretty rich community here in the Bay State that I have yet to explore and I'm really looking forward to meeting some of the regional talent that has done a great job of investigating our local mysteries. Hopefully, some of these meetings will bring about some new avenues for BoA to explore in 2008 and beyond.

Ticket Information :: Prior to this past week, the Mass UFO Show / Mass Monster Mash made tickets available only via pre-order on the web, but now their site is saying that "a limited number of tickets will be sold at the door". Be forwarned that only 200 tickets, total, are available, so if you are planning on attending, you better act quick before there is no more room available. Tickets are a mere $25 per night, which makes this event emminently affordable for people want to attend, especially since most other conferences take place on the West coast and require a plethora of expenses.

All information on tickets & directions can be found @ the appropriate websites : Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash

Should you decide to make it to the big event and you see me, feel free to say hello. I'll be lurking somewhere in the building.

Coast Notes

Not much to report here, other than we'll be getting a full dose of Richard C. Hoagland on Tuesday (10.9) evening. Sir Hoags will be joined by Mike Barra and they will be talking about their forthcoming new book "Dark Mission : The Secret History of NASA". Despite all my misgivings about RCH, I'm looking forward to both this interview and his new book. When Hoagland is talking about Mars or NASA conspiracies, he is pure gold. It's when he gets into the yawn-inducing hyperdimensional theories or jumping on the bandwagon whatever esoterica's mystery du jour is, that's when I have a problem with him. Hoagland's been beating the NASA conpsiracy drum for a long time, so I expect some really solid material to be on the horizon and, thus, the Tuesday episode should be killer.

The other big note for the upcoming week is that Jim Sparks will be back on C2C on Thursday (10.11), after setting the esoteric world afire with his two previous appearances on Coast that straddled the beginning of 2007. Of course, those interviews were with Art Bell, not The Noor, so I'm not sure what to expect here. Sparks is a polarizing figure in contemporary Ufology and it will be interesting to see if this interview will cover new ground or end up as a rehash of the previous two strong showings from Sparks.

Pop Culture Thoughts / End Notes

My attention to the new Fall TV season was diverted this week, as baseball playoffs began. When there is a triple-header of big games on back-to-back days, I find it hard to get excited about the latest offerings of scripted programming and bad reality TV. That said, I'm nearly through with all the shows that I decided to sample so far this season. Next week, I expect to have a pretty thorough look at what I liked and what sucked.

Speaking of which, I assume that next week's binnall report will arrive sometime around Sunday (10.14) evening, since I will be very busy @ the Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash on Friday and Saturday night.

That about does it for this week's installment. Have an excellent week, my friends. I'll catch you on the flip side next weekend.

- TB

9.29.7 : binnall report

Rounding out the month of September, this is the binnall report. Kind of short one this week, hitting on BoA : Audio, Season III, Art Bell's one off guest host spot on Friday night, a mini-preview of the Mass Monster Mash / UFO Show coming up in a couple of weeks, and some Pop Culture Thoughts as well.

BoA : Audio, Season III ... 10.20.7

Not all that much to report on the BoA : Audio front as of now. We've taped another interview this past week ,one more will be taped this coming Monday, and hopefully we'll get three or four others down on tape before the Season III premiere on 10.20.7 with our special guest Jim Marrs. I'll refrain from naming names just yet, until we figure out the schedule for the first few weeks.

This is kind of a "hump week" while we are in the midst of production, so I don't have much tangible news to share with you. Things are percolating at a fairly decent clip. That said, I've gotten a lot of interesting guest suggestions and returning guest suggestions so far, so feel free to keep them coming.

Bell Returns Again

C2C founder and all around demigod, Art Bell, returned from his quasi-retirement for a guest hosting shot on Coast this past Friday night (9.29). As expected, it was quite a lot of fun. Right from the beginning, things had that familiar feel to them. Art has a way of melding his introduction with the C2C theme music and dragging that mix out for so long that it just becomes awesome. For that brief moment, all is right with the world.

Bell started things off with perhaps the C2C line of the year as he said he wanted to answer the question that everyone was asking. Then he announced that he missed radio and was coming back to host five time a week. A beat skipped. And then he laughed, because ... it was a joke. The sad part of it is that the humor was derived from how many C2C listeners and die hard Bell heads surely lost their shit when they heard him say that, only to be disappointed that he was jesting.

It was on that sly note that the night began. The first hour was really good. Bell went through the usual hoops, updating us on his new kid and wife, giving his take on the news and fielding calls from the fandom. It felt like old times again and was a night of sheer bliss for lovers of nostalgia, especially as those old bumper music gems were busted out.

The highlight of the hour had to be the call from "JC". He was ranting and raving about Senator Craig, which should tell how long it has been since JC has graced C2C. JC hilariously included Noory in some kind of homosexual mafia that was framing Sen. Craig. It was outstanding. He also brought up "food porn" again and went after Rachel Ray, of all people. Gotta love the Rachel Ray reference. Art ended up hanging up on him when he endorsed Lima beans. Seriously. It was wackiness done right.

The guest was Graham Hancock, who was decent, albeit a tad dry. I listened half-heartedly while in a chat with some friends. Some of Graham's stuff was pretty wild and he is still endorsing ayuahasca and talking about that realm of esoterica. There was some nice historical stuff at the beginning of the interview, as well, when they re-hashed "Fingerprints of the Gods". Bell was, obviously, excellent throughout the interview, interjecting at the right points and keeping a loose reign on the evening which allowed for some nice flow.

While Hancock was pretty entertaining and some interesting insights, the true star of the evening was Bell. Along the lines of how I waxed nostalgic last week, a full unfettered Open Lines would have been excellent. I suppose we'll have to wait until Halloween for that, though.

Mass UFO Show / Monster Mash ... 10.12 & 10.13

At this point, I am about 75% sure that I will be attending this esoteric double bill in a couple of weeks in nearby Watertown, MA, which is a stone's throw from BoA headquarters. The UFO show, obviously, features UFO related speakers and discussion while the Mass Monster Mash focuses on cryptozoology, which has a surprisingly rich heritage in Massachusetts. Both nights look to be pretty well put together and should be a lot of fun. Info on it all can be found either at @ Mass UFO Show or @ Mass Monster Mash.

I'll probably do a proper preview next week as we get closer to the festivities. Suffice it to say that the two day affair ought to be a nice mix of a few strong names from the national scene alongside a plethora of regional esoteric talent. Having only really met a few of the local New England folks who delve into the esoteric arts, like the ultra cool Chris Balzano, I'm looking forward to seeing what the people in attendance will be like.

I expect to tape a few soundbites and short cuts over the weekend for use in a future BoA : Audio episode. And, much like last year's CRC IV special, I'm sure that there will be connections made for future BoA interviews down the line later in Season III.

So if you are from the New England area, this is one of, if not the only, big esoteric weekend of the year and you ought to try and check it out. As noted, I'll have a more in-depth preview next week, once my attendance is assured.

End Notes and Pop Culture Thoughts

Despite my claims last week, no Fall TV thoughts just yet. I've only watched a few of the new shows and don't have enough to say about them just yet. I've still got to see the Tivo'd pilots of "Chuck", "Reaper", and "Journeyman". Plus, "Cavemen" and "Pushing Daisies" haven't premiered yet either. So, we're kind of in the hump week of the Fall TV season as well. I've already given up on one show : "Kid Nation", but I'll say more about that next week.

A slight follow up on the BoA : Audio, Baseball Special predictions. Attentive listeners may recall that my preseason pick was, aside from the obvious Red Sox, the Chicago Cubs, who made the playoffs alongside the Sox this past Friday. I can't recall exactly who Greg Bishop and Adam Gorightly picked, but I do recall that Paul Kimball picked the Detroit Tigers, who did not make the playoffs. Sorry, Paul. I'll go back and dig into the episode again and find out who the other guys picked and try and update that next week as well.

That's about it, so we'll call it a night here. Have a nice week, my friends.
- TB

9.23.7 : binnall report

Ah, yes, I have already abandoned "binnall thoughts" in favor of returning to the classic name "binnall report". We just have too large an archive of "tbr" to switch over to a whole new name for essentially the same column.

A little of this and a little of that in this week's column. I'll start rolling out some serious info on BoA : Audio : Season III, we'll talk about Jaques Vallee finally showing up on C2C, Art Bell returning to guest host Coast, and my various Pop Culture thoughts for the week just past.

BoA : Audio, Season III is coming

To be more precise, BoA : Audio, Season III will be premiering on 10.20.7, a little less than a month from today. I'm happy to report that our season premiere guest will be, as always, the venerable Jim Marrs. Of course, I'll have a full preview of the interview as we get closer to the premiere, but the gist of it a lengthy discussion on the re-issue of Jim's book "Psi Spies", which details the US Army's remote viewing program. Along with that, we'll find out Jim's thoughts on the past year in Ufology and 911 research and where both fields seem to be heading.

I've already taped another interview and have several waiting to be scheduled. We're hopeful to have the bulk of 2007's interviews taped before the premiere episode, which should make it easier to produce the show this season. Also, the official logo for Season III will be unveiled sometime around the beginning of October.

Along the lines of guests, I am pulling out a call to any hardcore BoA : Audio listeners to chime in now with your request for returning BoA : Audio guests. We've featured around 50 different esoteric minds on the show, ranging from up-and-comers to bonafide legends. But the question is, who do you to see back on BoA : Audio ? Drop me a line and let me know, as we fine tune the guest list for Season III.

So ... 10.20.2007 ... BoA : Audio, Season III begins with Jim Marrs talking about Psi Spies.

I Want My Jaques Vallee

There was enormous buzz all last week over the re-emergence of Jaques Valle on the esoteric scene with his appearance on Coast to Coast on Monday night. Many websites, that normally gloss over C2C's fare, made a special point of posting news of this big interview. Kudos to C2C for, finally getting some positive buzz out of the hardcore esoteric community. After a Summer that included a disappointing Roswell episode, the infamous Ouija Board debacle, Art Bell "retiring", and six Jerome Corsi appearances, this was a welcome change of pace.

Of course, it wouldn't be C2C without them putting their unique "spin" on the evening, as Vallee was only the solo guest for the first hour of the interview and then was joined by Paul Smith for the rest of the night. The bulk of the discussion with both guests centered around Remote Viewing, so the much anticipated "Vallee on Ufology" topic was tragically cut short. I can't blame Coast for this one, though, as I suspect that Smith probably played a hand in getting Vallee on the show and it does appear that Vallee is more interested in RV than UFOs nowadays.

Regardless of that, the night was so good that my only real quibble lies in the fact that Vallee sounded so much like Dr. Louis Turi that it was distracting. Obviously, we must blame Louis Turi for this. Somewhere in the last 10 years, during Vallee's self imposed Ufological exile, Turi swooped into the "plucky Frenchman" gimmick in esoterica. It's disgraceful and I demand that Turi drop the French accent if Vallee plans on staying in esoterica and doing interviews again.

That first hour was radio majic and Noory did a fine job during the interview, to the point that I can't think of any Noory blunders to poke fun at him about. The rest of the night was also quite good. Vallee had a unique air about him, in that everything he said carried a lot of weight. C2C media whores Richard C. Hoagland and Jerome Corsi could learn a thing or two from the near hysteria that Vallee's appearance caused.

I'm not sure what came out of the interview, regarding Vallee's retirement situation (i.e if it is coming to an end or not). Let's hope that he decides to stick around for a while. The esoteric media has changed and there are many places that would like to have a good chin wag with the esoteric icon.

Bell Returns ... Again

Okay ... who had "99 days" as their pick in the Art Bell Un-Retiring Pool ?

That's right, the mysterious and reassuring creator of C2C, Art Bell will be back from his self-imposed exile on Friday night (9.28) as he guest hosts for The Noor and interviews Graham Hancock. I'm not sure what caused this impromptu guest host appearance for Bell, though the 4th Friday of every month is Ian Punnett's "Mr. Belvedere Fan Club" meeting. Anything that bumps out Noory-hosted Friday night Open Lines is alright by me.

Hopefully this news of Bell's guest hosting spot will help to settle down some of the fervor that his surprising re-re-re-retirement caused in early July. I'm just wondering how many of the guests that Coast trotted out for the "Art Bell Tribute" feel just a wee bit silly, since he will manage to host yet another episode less than 100 days since the tribute. I know I'd be pissed if I worked at Premiere and chipped in $5 for a "Thanks for the Memories" ice cream cake.

Don't get all excited that Bell will be hosting C2C on any kind of regular basis, though. For starters, George Knapp just announced last weekend that he'd be hosting Coast every 3rd Sunday of the month and I wouldn't be surprised if Rollye James is penciled in for some kind of similar deal. With the folding of "Ian" and the creation of "Time Fishing with Art Bell" (or whatever they are calling that archive show), it's highly doubtful that C2C would undergo the logistical nightmare of Bell coming back to do weekends as he did for the past few years. I suspect the earliest we'll see him after Friday will be in late October for Ghost to Ghost.

Be that as it may, mark down the return of Bell as yet another step forward by the critically challenged C2C. First they manage to convince Vallee to appear and then they bring Bell back for a one night shot. Could we be seeing a turnaround @ C2C ? Stay tuned.

End Notes & Pop Culture Thoughts

Next week, I'll preview the Mass Monster Mash, which I hope to be attending in early October. I'll also talk a bit about what I like so far during this new Fall TV season, including the return of Heroes and the debut of Kid Nation. Plus, we'll discuss Art Bell's C2C return. And, of course, other esoteric hijinks.

A look @ my scorecard from last week's Emmy picks ... 2 out of 13. Ouch. I really should get credit for two more, since I wanted to pick Katherine Heigel, but instead picked "don't care". Also, Lost's Terry O'Quinn winning was really close to my pick of Lost's Michael Emerson. So let's call it 4 out of 13, with an asterik.

One prediction that I did make that panned out was the victory by Evel Dick on Big Brother 8. My favorite characters always get eliminated between 5th and 3rd on these shows, so finally seeing my favorite win was entertaining as hell. Congrats to Evel Dick for winning and putting on a hell of a show all Summer.

Quickly now, my pick for Survivor : China is the gay flight attendant or the NYC waitress (if she can get her act together). There, we have it on the record.

Till next week.
TB

9.21.7 : Returning Guest Requests

Simple question ...

The plan was to bring a few of the guests from the previous seasons back for Season III. Right now, though, I'm kind of back-logged with new folks, so I haven't started talking to previous guests about making a return appearance.

Before I start making calls and sending out feelers, I figured I'd throw it out to the listeners first and maybe they would give me a good indication of who they'd like to see back on the show.

So, either e-mail me (tbinnall@hotmail.com) your requests for return guests or just post 'em in the comments section below.

Thanks.

Details on the Season III premiere will be revealed on Sunday in the binnall report.

9.18.7 : ARN's binnallathon & Blue Rose Report binnall appearance

Beginning @ 12 midnight tonight and going until 8 PM tomorrow evening, the Anomaly Radio Network will be running a nearly 20 hour binnallathon. This thirteen episode mix was hand-picked by binnall, himself, to provide a nice sampling of what the BoA : Audio archive has to offer, as classic episodes of BoA : Audio will be joining the line-up @ the ARN.

The featured episodes in the binnallathon will be run in the following order :: BoA : Audio's first ever episode with Stanton Friedman @ the 2005 X-Conference, BoA : Audio, Season One episodes featuring Jim Marrs, Peter Robbins, Colm Kelleher, Loren Coleman, Andre Eggelletion, and Gary McKinnon. Following that will be six more episodes, these ones being culled from our Season Two archive, featuring Scott Corrales, Peter Davenport, Stanton Friedman (x-mas special), Tony Healy, Chris Styles, and Brad Steiger.

At the conclusion of the binnallathon, the Blue Rose Report will welcome binnall as their special guest to discuss the upcoming premiere of BoA : Audio, Season III, the world of esoterica and esoteric radio, and all sorts of other hijinks.

The interview will be LIVE from 8 PM to 9 PM (ET) Wednesday evening. It can be heard @ Blue Rose Report or Anomaly Radio Network. We will also be talking callers during the hour. Those interested in chiming in can call (347) 996-3510 between 8 and 9 PM (ET).

So ... Wednesday, from midnight to 8 PM (ET), the 20 hour binnallathon is on the Anomaly Radio Network.

Then ... Wednesday, from 8 to 9 PM (ET), binnall joins the Blue Rose Report for an interview.

So tune in for a massive dose of BoA : Audio goodness as the we kick off the hype for the premiere of BoA : Audio, Season III.

9.15.7 : binnall thoughts

Wow, three straight weeks of "binnall thoughts". Me thinks we are getting back on track, finally. In this week's missive, I announce both another binnall interview appearance and a new collaboration for BoA. I'll tease you with more information about the upcoming BoA : Audio, Season III. Coast to Coast AM will get some face time as I preview what, on paper, looks to be one of the strongest C2C weeks in recent memory. Rounding it all out, I unveil my Emmy Award picks for tomorrow night's ceremonies.

binnall speaks ... again

Mark your calendars, my friends, as I will be appearing on the Blue Rose Report podcast this coming Wednesday evening (9.19) from 8 to 9 PM (ET). Host Stephen Miles Lewis and I will be discussing the upcoming return of BoA : Audio, the world of esoterica, and all sorts of other hijinks.

The interview will also serve as the kick off to a new collaborative relationship between BoA and the Anomaly Radio Network, which will see classic BoA : Audio episodes joining the line-up of shows on the ARN. That's right, every Wednsday from 3 to 6 PM, BoA : Audio episodes from Season One and Two will be aired on the ARN. I'm very excited to be potentially reaching a whole new segment of the esoteric radio audience and I'm looking forward to hearing from the ARN listeners who will be discovering BoA : Audio for the first time.

I've had a lot of different online esoteric radio networks approach BoA about syndicating the audio show, but I have been leery about working with anyone until now. Positive kudos for the ARN from both Greg Bishop and Adam Gorightly helped assuage any fears I had about granting re-broadcast rights to a third party. Couple that with a lenghty discussion with ARN founder Stephen Miles Lewis, the decision to go ahead with this new flank of the BoA : Audio empire became an easy one.

Having talked with Stephen in the past few weeks, I can see that he is cut from the same cloth as many of my friends in esoterica. He's a straight up dude with an earnest interest in the esoteric. Since the BoA : Audio archive is just sitting there, already being enjoyed by people who have discovered the show, it only made sense to start farming the program out, so that we can reach more people who haven't yet heard of us yet.

So ... Wednesday, 9.19.7 @ 8 PM (ET) ... binnall is on Blue Rose Report.

And ... every Wednesday from 3 PM to 6 PM, classic BoA : Audio episodes will be airing on the Anomaly Radio Network.

As a bombastic way of launching this historic coalition, the Anomalist Radio Network will be airing a BoA : Audio marathon, featuring some of my favorite episodes from the past two seasons. Details on the marathon to be announced shortly.

BoA : Audio, Season III is Coming

The wheels are in motion as I speak. I've got a couple of interviews already scheduled to be taped this coming week, a few more are in the midst of being scheduled,and feelers are out to still more folks who will most likely be joining the guest line-up for Season III. The official logo should be unveiled soon and I expect to announced a premiere date either during my Blue Rose Report interview or in this column next week.

Sometime before the premiere, we ought to have a few teaser previews up and running @ BoA to give you a taste of what is to come when Season III kicks off.

From here on out, BoA : Audio, Season III news ought to be coming at you on a pretty steady clip.

C2C's Best Week Ever

Okay, maybe not "ever" but it may turn out to be pretty damn close. After kvetching all Summer about C2C or just outright ignoring it, I can't help but heap high praise on the line-up they unveiled for this coming week.

To kick things off, on Sunday they have George Knapp guest hosting the program with guest Joseph Farrell. For starters, I had the pleasure of meeting up with BoA legend Joe Vee this past week and he was practically gushing like a schoolgirl over George Knapp, which is the most positive he's been about C2C in months (if not years). Secondly, guest Joseph Farrell comes with a high recommendation from BoA's own Lesley, who endorsed Farrell for last year's 12 Guests C2C Needs. So you've got the combination of a high potency guest host with a critically acclaimed guest, all the makings for a stellar evening.

Monday sees what has the makings of an all-time classic interview, as the reclusive Jaques Vallee comes out of hiding to appear on C2C. The Noor (and just about every other esoteric show on the planet) has been trying to get Vallee ever since he "retired" from Ufology and stopped doing interviews. Personally, this is probably the most stoked I've been for a C2C episode featuring a pure esoteric guest in quite some time. I am slightly worried that The Noor could somehow fuck this all up, but I'm praying that he will just ask the questions and get the hell out of the way so that Vallee can disperse some wisdom. Before start preparing The Noor effigy, lets not forget the C2C appearances of Zecharia Sitchen, who came across more as a bitter old man than some kind of genius. This episode really could only go two ways : best episode of the year material or fundamentally bad disappointment. Either way, it will be a fun ride.

Tuesday, Marie D. Jones & John Savino talk about "Supervolcano". Marie Jones is, perhaps, subject for subject, the top woman in the field of esoterica today. Her co-author is also her father, which should be interesting. And the subject matter is a nice mix of high strangeness and real science. Another strong looking episode.

Wednesday is your usual wildcard Wednesday, TBA. The addition of another A-list esoteric name would probably push this week to the upper echelons of all-time C2C weeks. The week wraps up with Thursday's appearance of Philip Carlo discussing serial killers. Carlo, you may remember, "called out" all serial killers in his last appearance on C2C. He also has a penchant for drifting into foul language when he starts ranting about criminals. His antics are beyond entertaining, bordering on the sublime.

If ever there was a week to break me out of my C2C slump, this may be it.

binnall's Emmy Award Picks

These are really who I want to win, not who I think will win. It seems like it's always the asshats who win and my favorites get shafted.

The full list of nominees can be found HERE.

My picks ...

Best Drama : Heroes

Best Comedy : The Office

Best Actor (Drama) : Hugh Laurie, "House"

Best Actor (Comedy) : Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock"

Best Actress (Drama) : Mariska Hargitay, "Law & Order, SVU"

Best Actress (Comedy) : Tina Fey, "30 Rock"

Best Supporting Actor (Drama) : Michael Emerson, "Lost"

Best Supporting Actor (Comedy) : Rainn Wilson, "The Office"

Best Supporting Actress (Drama) : Don't care.

Best Supporting Actress (Comedy) : Jaime Pressly, "My Name is Earl"

Best Variety, Music or Comedy Series : The Daily Show

Best Reality Show (Competitive) : "Project Runway"

Best Reality Show : "Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List"

Check back next week in the End Notes, when I tally my score of picks.

End Notes

Not much else to say this week, really. Congrats to Evel Dick, who made it to the final two of Big Brother 8 this past week. I've watched tons of reality shows in the last seven years and can probably count one one hand the number of times my favorite contestant made it to the final. It's a gratifying feeling.

Next week, more BoA : Audio, Season III news, my thoughts on whatever C2C episodes I manage to catch, and some other fun stuff, I'm sure.

Have an excellent week.

9.8.7 : binnall thoughts

Just some quick hits and stuff for the week, talking about my upcoming After Dark article, pre-season hype for BoA : Audio, Season III, next weekend's X-Conference, C2C not having a 911 special, and my Summer obsession that is Big Brother.

binnall's Oak Island adventure coming to "After Dark"

I'm happy to report that the final draft of my "After Dark" article on Oak Island has been finished and sent off to the "powers that be" @ C2C. Despite being much harder than I expected it to be, this piece turned out to be one of the better articles that I have written. It really tries to break through the cookie cutter Oak Island stories and aims to include some new details that haven't been reported elsewhere yet. I suspect that I will get the final sign off on the article sometime early next week and then will know what issue it is in and all that good stuff.

BoA : Audio, Season III update

Starting next week, I'll be sending out the requests for the first batch of BoA : Audio, Season III guests and will truly get the ball rolling on the new season. Probably in about two weeks, I'm hoping to be able to unveil the official logo, some guest names, and a premiere date.

Season III will probably feature a fair amount of returning guests from the previous two seasons. I tried to avoid having return guests for Season Two, which now gives us a pretty big pool of potential folks to have back on the program. I'm looking forward to digging into my rolodex and cherry picking some of my favorite guests for a second go-around in Season III.

Of course, we will have a lot of new folks on the program this season as well. I'm trying to track down some fairly obscure names, along with making a renewed effort in locking some of the people I wanted to interview last year, but proved too elusive.

Overall, I'm looking forward to getting my interview chops back and seeing how Season III evolves. Hope you check it out and enjoy the upcoming new material.

X-Conference III

The third X-Conference is next weekend in Washington, D.C. and, sadly, I will not be attending. I don't have the financial means to make that kind of trip right now and the whole September date for the conference really snuck up on me. I know that they have already scheduled X-Conference IV for April of 2008, so I'm hoping to attend that one instead.

I know that Paul Kimball will be there to present "Best Evidence" and I'm sure he'll have a great time rubbing elbows with the Exopols, lol.

The speaker line-up looks pretty sweet and does make me ornery that I am not going to be there. J. Antonio Huneeus and Gildas Bourdais both sound fascinating and are people I'd like to snag for BoA : Audio, considering our penchant for international Ufology. Daniel Sheehan should also be a great presentation, as will Jaime Maussan, regardless of what you think of his work, he is a great presenter.

If you are able to attend, I give the X-Conference my highest recommendation. It's a great chance to meet some of the big movers and shakers in Ufology, without having to fly all the way across the country for one of the big West coast conferences.

No C2C 911 Special

Color me surprised that Coast to Coast AM decided not to have a special episode, nor any significant coverage, of the 911 6th anniversary this coming Tuesday. Instead, they will feature Dr. Jaysen Q. Rand to talk about Planet X. Meh. I presume the reasoning for the lack of 911 coverage is that "it will be all over the news that day", but that doesn't quite hold water for me. 911, for better or worse, is a huge part of the fabric of contemporary esoterica.

One would think that after last year's critically acclaimed 911 Anniversary Special that C2C would go out of their way to try and capture lightening in a bottle once again. Instead, there will be nary a word about 911 on Tuesday, save for perhaps a 1st hour pop-in or some words from Noory at the start of the program. All this is, of course, hugely ironic as C2C continues to delve further and further in mainstream news and endlessly sounds the terror alarm whenever they can.

Anyway, jeers from me on this decision, although I am a fan of C2C cutting back on the theme episodes.

My Summer Obsession

And, finally, we close out this week with thoughts on what has been my Summer obsession : CBS's reality show Big Brother. I discovered this twisted gem last year and enjoyed it quite a bit (thanks mostly to Dr.Will and Chicken George). This year's installment sucked me in right away. What I really like about the show is that it is ongoing all Summer and you can follow along, live, with what the "hamsters" are doing in the BB house every day. While I don't have the infamously addictive "live feeds", I do follow the major websites that track the BB goings-on and have really enjoyed the 3 hour live feed program that is on every night on Showtime Too. It has been fascinating to see what really goes on inside the BB house and comparing it to how CBS edits the thrice a week prime time show.

Thankfully, though, this year's installment is winding down, they are at the final four contestants this weekend and I can finally start to get my life back. For me, the show kind of peaked on Thursday when there was a double eviction (taking it from six to four people left) which served as the "final battle" between my favorite houseguest "Evel" Dick and my other favorite Eric "America's Player". While both of them said some pretty vile things at times, they were far and away the two most entertaining people inside the house.

Now, only Evel Dick remains of the contestants that I really dig. His daughter is also still in the house, but I find her beyond obnoxious, despite being a fierce competitor. I can only hope that Dick can keep it together for the next few days, win the necessary competitions, and ultimately win the big prize. Best of luck to Evel Dick.

End Notes

I think, for now, we'll stick to the "binnall thoughts" as my primary weekly vehicle for getting information out and pontificating on the world at large. Thanks to everyone who has stuck with BoA throughout a very long and difficult Summer. Hopefully your Summer was better than mine and, collectively, we'll all have a great Autumn.

Until next week, this is binnall ... signing off.

6.29.7 : BoA : Audio season finale text preview

This week on BoA : Audio ::

The season finale of BoA : Audio, Season Two promises to be a landmark episode, as we welcome a true icon in the world of esoterica, the venerable Brad Steiger.

In this lengthy and in-depth conversation, we'll be discussing what it was like for Brad to break into esoteric studies, over 50 years ago, at the young age of twenty years old. We talk about the lessons he's learned from all these years studying the paranormal, the evolution of his journey as a researcher, the explosion of esoterica from niche market to veritable cottage industry, his thoughts on the lack of cohesion in esoterica, the role of the media in covering the unknown, the hopefulness of the 1960's, the problem with today's newcomers to esoterica, and tons and tons more.

It's truly the culmination of many of the big picture themes from Season Two, posed to a bonafide first ballot esoteric Hall of Famer, Brad Steiger.

The audio preview of the BoA : Audio season finale is available now on MP3 or in Streaming Audio

Additionally, we have a special BoA : Audio, Season Two audio recap / finale teaser on MP3 or in Streaming Audio

Brad Steiger's website is http://www.bradandsherry.com/

6.22.7 : Lisa Shiel on BoA : Audio :: text preview

This week on BoA : Audio,

The penultimate episode of Season Two sees Lisa Shiel, author of Backyard Bigfoot, join the program to discuss her first hand research into strange elements of the Bigfoot, including an in-depth look at stick signs and braiding the manes of horses. We'll also be talking about problems with the evolution theory and why the popular Gigantopithicus theory for Bigfoot has serious issues too. Plus, cryptozoology's infamous "natural v. paranormal Bigfoot" debate, UFOs and Bigfoot, Lisa's take on being a woman in cryptozoology, big picture speculation on what the Bigfoot might be, and much, much more.

The audio preview of this interview is available now, either on MP3 or in Streaming Audio

Lisa's website is www.upbigfoot.com