CRYPTOPALOOZA! 2012

What is Cryptopalooza???? Only the first cryptid conference of it's kind! Cryptopalooza has been a long time in the making, but it’s finally a reality. Over the years friends Michael Esordi, founder of Believe It Tour, and Craig Woolheater, founder of Cryptomundo, have tossed around ideas about the conference experience and how to make it even better for people. Out of those discussions the idea began to form of starting something new and unique. Michael hit on the name Cryptopalooza and things started to pick up steam when the city of Jefferson, Texas contacted Craig about doing an event in their city. With the growing number of Bigfoot and cryptozoolgy conferences spreading across the country, it’s obvious there’s an interest in these topics and a need for events to bring people together. Craig and Michael are joining forces with Sharon Lee, The Bigfoot Field Reporter, and Diana Smith, of Believe It Tour, to bring you a unique weekend experience called Cryptopalooza that you won’t want to miss. Join us October 19-20, 2012, for a weekend of music, movies, speakers, cryptids, and fun! Join us on Facebook at : https://www.facebook.com/cryptopalooza For event updates and ticket sales visit our website at: http://cryptopalooza.com/

They're Coming Back!

The Finding Bigfoot cast is returning to Deerassic Park Education Center located at 14250 Cadiz Rd, Cambridge, Ohio.  
                                                                 
Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 21st at 11 a.m.  (why not purchase your official Bigfoot Researchers calendar and have Bobo and Cliff autograph them for you?)

This Town Hall Meeting will be more geared to a Question & Answer session and all are encouraged to participate!
                                                     
 

Volunteers Needed!

What could be more fun and exciting than working with Loren Coleman in his International Cryptozoology Museum?

If you are in the Portland, Maine area and have a willingness to assist the legendary curator, author, cryptozoologist, then here is your chance!

Loren is searching for an Inventory Docent to give a limited amount of your volunteer time to the museum. Do you like to have a sense of accomplishment to a task? Do you enjoy making lists, counting, and documenting exactly what exists in a specific site? We are looking for your involvement.

If you are interested, please contact Loren Coleman here by clicking on this url: http://www.lorencoleman.com/contact.html

Loren is featured in the Faces of Bigfoot Research Calendar which can be purchased here

Incident at Boiling Springs Campground, Idaho

This story comes to me from a reader who is interested in learning if there are other reports, sightings or incidents near the Boiling Springs Campground area.

Witness report-My bigfoot story begins with me reading about three other reported sightings in the area of Boiling Springs Camp Ground between 2008 to 2010. So I decided to do my bear hunting at the same site.

The day was Saturday, September 24th, 2011. My friend Eric and I were bear hunting and we set out about 8am. The weather was clear and sunny; the temperature was about 46 degrees. We hiked about 2 miles up the south fork of the Payette river and crossed over to start moving into the tree line.
After about a half mile we were moving up hill and were stopped by the noise of something moving through the brush. We did not see anything as the wilderness up there is quite thick. We got behind a large downed pine tree and waited to see if the thing would continue to come in our direction and it didn’t, so after 20 minutes we decided to walk in the direction of where we heard the noise, we got about 150 yards up a old game trail and were moving up hill and come to a small stream with water running in it, but the bushes were so thick you couldn’t see the water. During the hike there were typical forest sounds such as birds, squirrels and bugs. Once we got closer to the bushes the forest was dead silent and at one point I told Eric to listen and he said he couldn’t hear anything and I said that’s what I am talking about there are no noises at all. As we moved closer to the bushes a large but new green pine cone with pine needles still attached came flying out of the bushes in our direction. So we stopped and looked at each other and not knowing what to think we decided to move closer and I am scanning the hill with my weapon L-to-R and then I noticed as we got closer to the bush a rock the size of a softball maybe a little bigger came out of the bushes at Eric, it wasn’t really thrown at him but it was in his direction for sure, so we stopped and I put my weapon on fire at this point and am in full Recon mode as we walked even closer at this point we are about 30yards from the bushes still moving up hill and from a different area up and to the right and further up the hill another pine cone came at me this time, and Eric asked me what we should do and I said let’s get out of here because to be honest I wasn’t ready to kill something that I don’t know what is was….we never saw anything but I do feel like something strange happened up there.

Back at the campsite there were no other hunters in the camp and we saw no other hunters as we moved through the woods. At no time did anyone announce their presence which is what I would have thought a hunter would have done considering we had our weapons pointed at them.

We were on the downhill side of the encounter and the wind was not heading in our direction but we did not smell anything out of the ordinary. Please keep in mind Sharon I am a Special Forces Trained Solider as a Force Recon Marine and Air Force Combat Controller and have three tours in combat there isn’t much that get the hairs on my neck to stand up but in that moment, it’s hard to explain but I was on edge.

I have spent a lot of time in the wilderness around the world from jungle, deep woods to tundra both hunting and training while I was in the military, I know how to be a part of my surroundings blend in.


Previous sightings reported on the BFRO:

The first sighting was in 2008 by a husband and wife on ATV’s and it was at the end of Sept. they were riding on the Forest Service Road and the wife saw what looked like a hairy tall person run across the road in front of her and up the hill so she speeded up to catch up to her husband whom was around the counter looking up at the same thing, and they both realized that they saw a bigfoot.

LOCATION DETAILS: Near Crouch Idaho(Valley County) about 20 or so miles up rd.# 698 is Boiling Springs Campground and a few hundred yards away is a forest service cabin and a creek right next to the campground. On November 1st 2009 around 8:00 p.m. we saw something between the trees between our sight and the rest rooms. It was walking back and forth in the clearing and swaying back and forth in the same spot when it stopped to better see us through the opening in the trees. Nothing occured to us except it maybe have been some one but we were the only campers for miles. The following year in October 30th 2010 around 10:00 p.m. at the same location we were getting spooked by the area for no reason and we actually packed up and left when again there were no other campers and we heard what sounded like a large boulder about 75-100 yards away hit the ground with a great thud. No boulder rolling or crashing down a hill but like it was thrown or dropped out of the air. No smells or sightings except a few possible 11 inch tracks in the dirt a month prior while hunting in that area.

Vocalizations reported in June of 2004

Public Service Announcement

Last night on the Squatch Detective radio show, Steve Kulls' guest was retired forest ranger Charles Branson of Honobia, Oklahoma.

Charles claims to have had interactions with bigfoots on his property for many, many years. The activity was such on his land that several organizations became interested in researching the area.

The individuals were always honest and upfront with Charles and for the past 10 years he has allowed them to place trail cams on what is discreetly known as "Area X".

Members of the organization are required to pay dues and to commit "service hours" for the organization. One of the chores required of certain members is to go to "Area X" and replace the cards and batteries on the trail cameras.

Charles had no problem with the researchers using his property until this past July 4th, when the organization's mission turned into more than just research.

One of the researchers caught sight of a bigfoot creature and took off in pursuit firing his AK 47 assault rifle with the intent to kill.

This organization and others, is often turning to the public pleading for donations to further their "research". If the organization has changed its original mission statement and have changed their stance from a "no-kill" to a "pro-kill" operation, then their donors should be made aware of this new practice.

The following has been transcribed from the Squatch Detective radio show last night:

At the 12:57 minute mark:

Steve: Have you ever gotten anybody that's ever come forward with a video to you, that, that you feel was a legitimate video?

Charles: Oh, we had some, uh.. We were letting some BRFO researchers from Oklahoma and Texas use our cabin facilities for the past ten years and they kept game cameras out all the time.

At the 15:15 minute mark:

Charles: We had a 4th of July incident in this area that I'm telling you about. It's OK to expand on it?

Steve: Sure...

Charles: ... researcher was actually shooting at one, trying to kill it with an AK-47. (unintelligible)

So we stopped them from using our facilities because, we know those folks are there, we don't want them bothered. They're non-violent, and we've watched them, ya know, for years, their habits and everything.

And uh, he was actually trying to kill one. And was honest enough to admit it. Which I admire, because there's not one in ten million that would admit that.

At the 27:10 mark:

Charles: ...they change seasonal their fur, just like other wildlife does.

And like this one, the 4th of July incident, uh, this fella said this one was about six and a half, seven foot tall.

He had light brown hair on his shoulders and up around his neck, real light brown and the rest of him was dark.

At the 52:43 minute mark.

Steve: Charles, you have such an appreciation for these things. Um, um, you...

Charles: They're wonderful people.

Steve: And uh, it seems like you've had more than one run in with these guys. It seems like you've almost had a nice relationship with them.

Charles: Yes, and they know it.

Steve: Now do they recognize people after a time, spell of time?

Charles: I think so. Spiritually I think they do. They're super smart. And uh, they, they can just feel...

And also, for your information, I've had... If you ever attack one, you better be careful, because they don't forget it.

Steve: Ha ha, ha... I guess not. Now have you ever known anyone to have ever attacked one or...?

Charles: Well I just told you about the 4th of July this year tried to kill one with an AK-47.

But when we go to the cabins, this hunting season, we're gonna have to be extra careful and communicate with them fellas. Ya know, let 'em know that wasn't us pulling that trigger.

We live... They're wonderful. I just wish everybody could learn to appreciate 'em more. And uh, I respect any person's right to not believe. But I also expect the same respect on my beliefs, ya know.

Steve: Now Charles, Charl...

Charles: If everybody could work together and stop the ridicule, just learn from each other then we could really move on with this thing.

And then at the 56:12 minute mark

Steve: Now the person trying to cap one with the AK-47, was that, that wasn't at your property was it?

Charles: Yes it was.

Steve: Ok, so now...

Charles: For ten years. we have give them permission to use the cabins because every so many months they go change their cameras out, see... And they was studying their habits, researching'. Uh, in fact, I've been there with them when they've played their recordings and get callbacks from 'em. I mean, it's the real deal.

But, we don't want them bothered, ya know. Well, that's it.

Steve: (unintelligible) but no guns...

At the 57:57 minute mark

Steve: Now, I have another question, and this goes back to the AK-47 incident, and that struck a political cord with some folks, and I'm gonna go ahead and honor the question.

Was there a particular group that was associated with this AK-47 incident?

Charles: Well, uh, it's BRFO, but I will not mention no names.

Steve: OK.

Charles: Because, the person has been extremely honest. And admitted it...

Steve: It wasn't the Texas group, or was it the Texas group?

Charles: Well Oklahoma and Texas both work together.

Steve: Gotcha. Gotcha. Well, that answers that question I suppose.

Steve: You sure it was the BFRO and not the, uh, next question, used to be the, gotcha Craig...

Charles: Well that's what they claim, but it could not be, ya know there's several splinter groups that says BRFO. I don't know whether it's official or not.

Steve: Is it possible that it could have been a group called the TRBC? Is it possible that you mixed those two up.

Charles: I'm not for sure (unintelligible) BRF...

You can listen to the archived show here: Squatch Detective Radio Show-Guest Charles Branson

For the record, the BFRO is not to be implicated in this story in any way. Mr. Branson was not sure of all of the letters in the acronym.

It's a Wrap!

The Animal Planet Finding Bigfoot crew was overwhelmed by the turnout of Bigfoot researchers, witnesses and enthusiasts. Thanks to the Ohio chapter of the BFRO, the crowd exceeded 160 in numbers, more than any other Town Hall meeting Finding Bigfoot has held!

We had advertised for everyone to arrive by 6 pm for the 7 pm meeting. I arrived at 6:20 and was blown away by the amount of cars in the parking lot! I gathered up my gear and headed towards the entrance of the Deerassic Park auditorium. Upon entering I was instructed to fill out the paperwork that gives Animal Planet permission to use your photos and video. Ugh, I did not want my fat butt seen on t.v. so hopefully I hid well enough.

I heard my name called out and I turned to see Dr. Russ Jones and his posse standing at the doorway. I joined them and was introduced to several BFRO members including Mark Maisel. I have to tell you, I might join the BFRO just for the eye candy! We chatted for awhile as more and more people were filtering in.
Mark then asked one of the producers if it was ok for me to take pictures and I was given permission.

I scanned the room looking for familiar faces. In attendance were Don Keating and his wife Missey. Shocker! I thought Don wouldn't be in the same room with Matt given their history. I had also heard a rumor that Don told the folks at Salt Fork that if they let the Finding Bigfoot crew hold their town hall meeting at the lodge that Don would not use Salt Fork ever again for another conference. Well guess what folks, that is one big, fat lie! I talked to several key people who assured me that there was no merit to that statement. Case closed!

There were so many people that I have never met before in attendance and Russ was keeping count of every butt in every seat, not including the crew.

We were all asked to take our seats and as I was sitting in the back row, I looked over my right shoulder and saw Matt, Cliff and Ranae standing in the shadows prepared to make their grand entrance.

The trio entered and marched down the aisle to an eruption of cheers and applause! They looked tired but happy. They have been traveling non-stop for so many weeks now and will not get a break until December. The new season will air in January.

Well, as you can imagine, filming a television show is quite the production. There were several times when the audience was asked to repeat scenes and the Finding Bigfoot gang were instructed to stand here, stop, say that again, refresh the battery pack, etc.

The trio introduced themselves to the audience and then asked how many people had witnessed a Bigfoot, or heard one or had a story to tell. At least 40 hands shot up and, as we would soon find out, the crew was going to listen to every single one.

The stories were the same we hear every day and soon they had gotten through all but one. The very last hand standing was that of Phil Brocco. He stood up to introduce himself and I thought to myself "Oh no." At the first utterance of his name, the audience and crew were taken aback by his unusually high pitched voice. Matt's expression was priceless! Phil began talking about his experience and how he was "meditating in the lake" and he heard the movement of something large all around him but when he heard a loud splash in the water, he screamed, "you know, like a man". When he said that the crowd erupted in laughter and it was the perfect ending to the long and tedious production.

The producers then informed the audience that they could meet and mingle with the crew for about 10 minutes.

During the production, Matt Moneymaker gave Don Keating all of the credit for putting Ohio Bigfooting on the map. It was nice to see Don get the recognition that he deserves.

Don and Matt shook hands and took pics together during the meet and greet and the entire crew were very gracious posing for pictures and speaking to their fans.

Bobo could not be in attendance as it was his shift to camp out with the gear. He was missed.

Several witnesses remained to plot their sightings on the map and after about 45 minutes the crowd dissipated to some stragglers who wanted to talk and take pictures with the gang.

I ended up chatting with Cliff for about 15 minutes, catching up with him. He looked so extremely handsome and glowing. I am so happy for him. Before we knew it, the crew had packed up and I never did get a chance to meet Matt. His loss. ;)

All in all it was a great representation of Ohio researchers and we proved our sincerity and dedication to the quest.

Great job guys!

Oregon Travels

I arrived in Portland, Oregon and was greeted by the ever-so-charming Tim Cassidy, who was scheduled to give a presentation at Beachfoot.

We picked up the rental car and programmed our destination into the gps and headed southwest towards the ocean. Tim insisted we stop to dine at Gracie's Sea Hag restaurant for some seafood.

After lunch we headed next door to Ainslee's and picked up some salt water taffy for the road.
We coordinated our arrival to Beverly Beach with Tom Yamarone and Jerry Hein. Upon our arrival we were welcomed by Peter Byrne and Diane Stocking who was in charge of this year's event due to the overseas deployment of Ssg. Todd Neiss.
After lots of hugs we set up camp then headed down to the beach. The temperature difference from Portland to Newport was chilling! I was glad that I listened to Tom and packed some warm clothes.

We returned to camp and a car rolls up and a shy, young lad by the name of Andy Robson joins our camp. Andy has had his own Bigfoot encounters and his grandfather was interviewed in the 50's as a witness by the legendary John Green.

The guests began trickling in. Ron Morehead, Judy, Joe Hauser and Patricia, Bob and Patti Reinhart, Hal and Lupe Halderman, Matt Johnson and Cynthia, Shawn Jones and his 4 yr old daughter Elyse. We received word that Beth Heikkinen would not be attending due to the flu. Todd Neiss was still in Washington waiting to be flown to Portland!
We ran to the store for some grub and once we all had eaten, the fire was started and the guitars came out and Tom and Ron entertained us with their acoustical talents.
Finally the jeep comes rolling into camp and out pops our hero, Todd Neiss. Hugs and kisses and thanks and congratulations were dispersed and we continued with the party into the wee hours of the morning.

To be continued....
don't forget to order your 2012 Faces of Bigfoot Research Calendar!