Aliens Visitation and Crashes in Roswell and Varginha

This posting is inspired from my recent viewing of the TV Documentary, Moment of Contact, by James Fox 

Varginha and Roswell: Two Crashes, One Human Story

There are moments in history that refuse to stay buried, not because they are proven, but because they are remembered. Roswell, New Mexico, 1947. Varginha, Brazil, 1996. Two towns separated by half a century, hemispheres, languages, and cultures, yet bound together by an enduring question: What really happened?

Watching The Moment of Contact brought me back, once again, to that uneasy space between belief and skepticism. It is the same space Roswell has occupied for nearly eighty years. And perhaps that space, rather than answers is where the real story lives.

Roswell: The Template

Roswell is the original blueprint. A mysterious crash. Initial military statements suggesting something extraordinary. A rapid reversal. Debris reclassified. Witnesses silenced. And then decades later, confessions, deathbed testimonies, and declassified documents that clarify some things while deepening others.

Officially, Roswell was a weather balloon, later tied to Project Mogul. Case closed, on paper. Yet culturally, Roswell never closed at all. It became a symbol of Cold War secrecy, institutional mistrust, and the unsettling possibility that governments may know more than they admit.

Roswell taught us something important: once secrecy enters the story, certainty exits.

Varginha: The Modern Echo

Varginha feels like Roswell’s younger cousin, less polished, less mythologized, but rawer in its humanity. Instead of desert debris, we hear of frightened young women encountering something alive. Instead of military press releases, we see nervous witnesses, hesitant doctors, and officials whose denials feel procedural rather than reassuring.

Supporters of the Varginha case point to:

• Multiple civilian witnesses

• Sudden military activity

• Medical professionals describing encounters that left lasting psychological impressions

Skeptics counter with:

• No physical evidence

• No contemporaneous documentation

• Testimonies that evolved years later

Sound familiar?

It should. Because Varginha follows the same arc Roswell did, only in an era of camcorders, documentaries, and global media. And yet, despite modern technology, the same problem remains: no proof that satisfies everyone.

The Pattern That Won’t Go Away

What makes both cases persist is not the evidence, but the pattern.

1. Initial confusion

2. Rapid military involvement

3. Official denial

4. Witness marginalization

5. Cultural afterlife

Whether one believes in extraterrestrial visitation or not, this pattern raises uncomfortable questions about transparency, power, and who gets to define reality.

And perhaps that is why these stories endure. They are not just about aliens. They are about trust.

Belief, Skepticism, and the Space Between

I’ve been blogging long enough to know that certainty is seductive, but often dishonest. The truth is, neither Roswell nor Varginha has delivered the kind of evidence that would end the debate. No verified bodies. No authenticated materials. No documents that close the case definitively.

But dismissing these stories entirely feels just as incomplete.

Because something did happen in both places. People saw things. People were frightened. Institutions reacted. And silence followed.

Maybe the question is not “Did aliens crash?”
Maybe the better question is “Why do these stories keep resurfacing?”

A Mirror, Not a Message

Roswell and Varginha may ultimately tell us more about ourselves than about visitors from elsewhere. They reveal our discomfort with uncertainty. Our suspicion of authority. Our longing to believe we are not alone, while fearing the implications if we aren’t.

In a world increasingly defined by data, algorithms, and curated truths, these stories remind us that not everything meaningful is measurable. And that is both unsettling and deeply human.

A Closing Reflection

Whether Roswell and Varginha were cosmic encounters or cultural misunderstandings, they occupy a sacred kind of mystery. One that asks us to remain humble. To listen carefully. And to resist the urge to turn unanswered questions into rigid conclusions.

Some stories are not meant to be solved. They are meant to be held. And perhaps that, too, is a form of truth.

Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview on the Above Topic:

The most famous alleged UFO crashes in North America and South America, respectively. Both involve reports of downed spacecraft, the recovery of non-human entities, and subsequent government denials. 

The Roswell Incident (United States, 1947)

Occurring in late June or early July 1947, Roswell remains the foundational event of modern UFO culture. 

• The Event: An unidentified object crashed on a ranch near Roswell, New Mexico. The Roswell Army Air Field (RAAF) initially issued a press release stating they had captured a "flying disc," but retracted it the next day, claiming it was actually a weather balloon.
• Government Explanation: Decades later, the U.S. Air Force revealed the debris was part of Project Mogul, a top-secret program using high-altitude balloons to monitor Soviet nuclear tests.
• Alien Allegations: Conspiracy theories suggest that "grey" humanoid bodies were recovered and stored at sites like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (often referred to as "Hangar 18").
• Tourism: Today, Roswell is a major tourist destination featuring the International UFO Museum and Research Center and historic tours of the former Army Air Field. 

The Varginha Incident (Brazil, 1996)

Often called "Brazil's Roswell," the 1996 Varginha events involved multiple sightings of strange creatures and alleged military intervention. 

• The Creature Sightings: On January 20, 1996, three young women reported seeing a creature that was roughly 4 feet tall with oily brown skin, a large head, and prominent red eyes.
• The Crash and Capture: Residents reported seeing a cigar-shaped UFO crashing in the area. Witnesses claimed the Brazilian military cordoned off the city and captured at least two live entities.
• The Death of Marco Cherese: A young military policeman, Marco Cherese, died shortly after allegedly touching one of the creatures. Supporters of the incident claim his medical records were withheld and that he died of a mysterious infection.
• Official Investigation: The Brazilian Army concluded the "alien" was actually a well-known local man with physical disabilities and that the military movement was routine.
• Recent Media: The 2022 documentary Moment of Contact by James Fox presents new witness testimonies and alleges U.S. involvement in retrieving the craft.
• Finally, here are the top five News of the Day 

Minneapolis shooting shifts U.S. gun-policy politics – A fatal shooting in Minneapolis involving law enforcement agents has triggered political controversy and stirred Second Amendment debates at the national level.  U.S.–Iran tensions escalate in the Middle East – As the USS Lincoln strike group deploys to the region, rhetoric between Washington and Tehran intensifies amid broader geopolitical strains.  India and the EU finalize a landmark trade deal – After years of negotiation, India and the European Union conclude a wide-ranging free trade agreement expected to significantly expand economic ties.  EU–India trade pact among multiple global political developments – Broader coverage highlights the significance of this trade agreement alongside EU energy policy shifts and other international events.  U.S. stock markets outlook & economic drivers – Ahead of market open, futures show mixed signals with notable moves in tech, legacy stocks, and reactions to regulatory and policy changes.

A Senior's Reflection on the Moral Leadership in America

When Faith and Citizenship Converge: A Catholic Senior’s Reflection on Moral Leadership and America

 As a lifelong Roman Catholic and a senior citizen of this great nation, I have walked through many seasons of American life, wars and peace, prosperity and hardship, unity and division. But rarely have I witnessed such an extraordinary moment as the recent public appeal by three U.S. Catholic cardinals urging our government to renew its moral compass in foreign policy.

Cardinals Blase Cupich, Robert McElroy, and Joseph Tobin shepherds of some of our largest archdioceses spoke not as partisans, but as moral voices rooted in the teachings of Christ and the social doctrine of our Church. Their message wasn’t about politics; it was about principle about human dignity, peace, and the common good. 

The cardinals cited instances of U.S. policy that risk inflicting suffering rather than fostering peace from military actions abroad to slashed foreign aid. They reminded us that national interest and moral duty are not enemies, but partners in the pursuit of a just world. 

Why This Matters to Me

As someone who has lived through global upheavals, I’ve seen the cost when a nation abandons its moral bearings. I have walked through parishes where immigrant families seek refuge and dignity. I have prayed for leaders to have wisdom and compassion. These cardinals’ words echo that longing.

Their statement arrives at a time when many Americans indeed, many Catholics are wrestling with how to balance patriotism with fidelity to Gospel values. I’m struck by how rarely our religious leaders step into the public square with such clarity. They aren’t telling us whom to vote for, they are reminding us how to think about the world through the lens of our faith.

On Politics and Approval

In the current political climate, President Trump’s approval numbers reflect deep divisions in how Americans see our country’s direction. On issues like foreign policy and immigration-  the very topics raised by the cardinals, American voters show significant unease with the status quo. 

Some may wonder if this moral admonition will swing public opinion. Perhaps on its own it won’t move the needle dramatically. But moral leadership doesn’t show up in poll spikes, it shows up in conversation, conscience, and community. The Church’s voice reminds us that the measure of a society isn’t just economic growth or military strength, but how we love our neighbor.

Looking Ahead

As Catholics, we are called to be both faithful and engaged, to bring the light of Christ into every corner of public life. Whether you find yourself in agreement with the cardinals or wrestling with their points, I invite you to reflect prayerfully, discuss respectfully, and act consistently with your faith.

The future of our country and the moral health of our society depends not just on one election, one administration, or one set of policies. It depends on the moral choices of each of us, every day.

Here's the AI Overview: Catholics and Trump: Cardinal Rebukes 

PBS

Top U.S. Catholic cardinals urge Trump administration to use moral compass in foreign policy | PBS News

AP News

US Catholic cardinals urge Trump administration to embrace a moral compass in foreign policy

Reuters

Top US Catholic cardinals question morality of American foreign policy

The Daily Beast

Nation's Top Catholics Rip Into Trump's 'Moral Foundation'

CT Insider

70% of voters oppose U.S. military involvement in Iran, Quinnipiac Poll shows

The Daily Beast

CNN Data Guru Reveals Trump Is 'Underwater' Everywhere It Counts

 What the Cardinals Actually Said

On January 19, 2026, three prominent U.S. Catholic cardinals, Blase Cupich (Chicago), Robert McElroy (Washington), and Joseph Tobin (Newark) issued a rare and unusually explicit statement urging the Trump administration to reorient U.S. foreign policy around moral principles rather than partisan or economic goals. They cited issues such as:

• U.S. military engagement in places like Venezuela

• Threats related to Greenland

• Cuts to foreign aid and humanitarian programs

• The need to protect human dignity, life, and religious liberty globally
  They said the nation risks polarization and moral drift if these aren’t addressed. 

Although the statement didn’t name President Trump directly, it was clearly aimed at his administration’s foreign policy direction and reflected Catholic moral teachings on peace, human dignity, and the common good. 

This follows earlier actions by the broader U.S. Catholic hierarchy, including US bishops’ recent rebukes of immigration enforcement policies perceived as dehumanizing. 

Approval Ratings Context

Current U.S. polling data (January 2026) shows President Trump’s overall approval rating around 40–43%, with disapproval above 55% still underwater on key issues like foreign policy and immigration. 

Here’s how the Catholic clergy’s rebukes might factor in:

• Limited direct impact on overall approval - Most polling shows Trump’s base remains loyal even as broader disapproval persists, particularly among independents and moderates. 

• Religious leadership criticism could resonate more among Catholic and moderate voters who don’t view Trump through a strictly partisan lens. Popes and bishops often have moral authority that transcends political identity. 

• On some cultural issues (e.g., immigration), there already appears to be discontent among large majorities of voters, meaning the cardinals’ moral framing could influence views if it catches public attention. 

In short: the cardinals’ statement reinforces concerns many voters already have, but it is not by itself likely to drastically shift national polling numbers, unless it helps catalyze broader public debate or align Catholic voters behind alternatives. It could influence especially Catholic and ethical-issue voters ahead of elections. 

Finally, Here are the Key Points from Pope Leo XIV’s Jan. 9, 2026 Address related to the Concerns of the Three Cardinals Mention above.  

Pope Leo XIV delivered a forceful foreign-policy speech to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See. His address served as a moral “state of the world” outline that undergirds the U.S. cardinals’ statement. Here are the central themes: 

1️⃣ War and Diplomacy

• The Pope warned that “war is back in vogue” and that the global community is increasingly reverting to military solutions rather than diplomatic dialogue. 

• He lamented that post-World War II prohibitions on territorial aggression are being ignored and that peace is too often sought “through weapons” rather than negotiation. 

2️⃣ Human Rights & Human Dignity

• Leo spoke of a “growing disregard for human life,” highlighting threats to basic human rights, including restrictions on religious freedom and freedom of speech in many parts of the world. 

• He reiterated that respect for human life, from conception onward, is the foundation of all human rights, framing this as a moral imperative for nations and for international law. 

3️⃣ Weakening Multilateralism

• The Pope criticized the erosion of international cooperation multilateral institutions and diplomacy in favor of power politics and unilateral action. 

4️⃣ Humanitarian Concern

• He appealed for richer nations to uphold humanitarian aid and support for vulnerable populations, warning that cuts to such programs betray human dignity and Catholic teaching. 

 How These Points Connect to the Cardinals’ Concerns

The three U.S. cardinals Cupich, McElroy, and Tobin directly cited the Pope’s January address as the moral foundation for their criticism of current U.S. foreign policy. Here’s the link, point-by-point: 

✦ 1. War as a Last Resort

• Pope Leo’s warning about “war… back in vogue” helped shape the cardinals’ call to renounce war as a normal instrument of national policy. They argue echoing the Pope that military action should only be a last resort, not a primary strategy. 

✦ 2. Respect for Human Life

• The cardinals drew on the Pope’s emphasis that protection of life is the foundation of human rights, urging a U.S. foreign policy that upholds life and dignity globally not just in rhetoric but in practice. 

✦ 3. Diplomacy Over Force

• The Pope’s critique of weakened multilateral diplomacy underlies the cardinals’ concern that the U.S. is too quick to resort to forceful or unilateral measures (e.g., in Venezuela or other foreign engagements). 

✦ 4. Humanitarian Aid

• Citing the Pope’s appeal for humanitarian responsibility, the cardinals condemned reductions in foreign aid and urged support for the world’s vulnerable, a response directly rooted in Leo’s moral framework. 

🧭 In Summary

Pope Leo XIV’s address offered a moral template for international relations built on peace, respect for human dignity, multilateral dialogue, and humanitarian commitment. The three American cardinals explicitly used that template to evaluate U.S. foreign policy, saying it falls short of these principles and urging a reorientation grounded in Catholic teaching. 

My Reel of the Day- Trump Give-Up Greenland

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1428563248796091

Brotherhood without Borders

From My Readings Recently

Men need more platonic intimacy together. Brotherhood without Borders

"This is my sweet brother @intimatelyhuman. He has helped me move through so many of my negative associations with men".

One thing I hear over and over again from men is that they stopped receiving affection from their parents and their peers once puberty began.

There are many reasons for this. One is that testosterone decreases the ease of emotional expression so boys appear a bit more stern and shut down.

This isn't the case for all boys, but the ones who do have this effect are quite affected by it.

Another reason is the unspoken, yet deeply felt, fear of male sexual energy.

When a boy begins maturing into a man his own father's internal homophobia can cause the father to pull back kisses, hugs, and hand holding.

His mother may give him more space than she would have when he was younger because it's intimidating or harder to relate to them. One of the most important things for boys in puberty is touch.

Just consider this: boys start going into puberty and are treated differently by the people in their life. Then, in their isolation, they turn to porn.

So they're touch-starved, isolating, and spending hours (for most men and boys I've worked with) watching porn.

They begin developing in a dissociative state where the only touch is sexual self-touch in isolation.

This is no bueno and, I believe, contributes to developmental sexual trauma.

Whether it's competitive sports, dance groups, cuddling, or just simply walking with their arms around each other I hope more boys are encouraged and supported in normalizing male platonic affection throughout development.

For me, it has been life changing to have friends (especially straight ones) who are so comfortable with touch, hugging, eye contact, and affection.

It has helped transform the fear in my body around men into something more softer and trusting, and it has also helped me not see all male touch as sexual.

Meanwhile here's  a thoughtful and engaging blog post on platonic relationships between two men from ChatGPT:

---

Title: Brotherhood Without Borders: The Power of Platonic Relationships Between Men

In a world where expressions of male affection are too often misinterpreted or boxed into narrow definitions, the beauty of a platonic relationship between two men is both powerful and undercelebrated. These relationships, rooted in mutual respect, deep emotional connection, and unwavering loyalty, are essential for mental and emotional well-being, but they are rarely given the spotlight they deserve.

What Is a Platonic Male Friendship?

At its core, a platonic relationship between men is a close, non-romantic bond that’s built on trust, shared experiences, and emotional support. Unlike surface-level camaraderie often stereotyped in popular media (think sports talk, competition, or sarcasm), these connections dive deeper. They allow space for vulnerability, reflection, laughter, and even tears, without the pressure of performance or the need to “man up.”

Breaking the Stigma

Cultural expectations and societal norms have long discouraged men from openly expressing affection toward one another. For generations, being “too close” or “too emotional” with another man was often mocked or misunderstood. As a result, many men grew up learning to suppress their feelings and limit their expressions of care to physical tasks or humor.

But the tides are turning.

Modern men are beginning to challenge the outdated narratives of masculinity. They are choosing to hug longer, listen more intently, and say “I love you” without feeling awkward or emasculated. In doing so, they are rediscovering the joy and grounding presence of brotherhood, one that isn’t tied to blood, but built through loyalty and love.

The Benefits of Deep Male Friendships

1. Emotional Support Without Judgment
   Having a male friend who truly sees and hears you provides a safe space to talk about mental health, relationships, fears, and aspirations.

2. Improved Mental Health
   Studies show that close friendships significantly reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and loneliness, issues that disproportionately affect men who feel isolated.

3. Authentic Connection
   Unlike professional or romantic relationships, platonic friendships don’t come with performance expectations. They allow for genuine interactions and shared growth.

4. Lifelong Loyalty
   A true platonic bond between men can withstand distance, time, and change. These friendships often outlast jobs, relocations, and even marriages.

Famous Examples of Male Platonic Bonds

• Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy - Civil rights giants who not only worked together but shared a deep brotherhood.

• Matt Damon and Ben Affleck - Lifelong friends whose creative partnership and mutual support have spanned decades.

• Samwise Gamgee and Frodo Baggins (The Lord of the Rings) - A fictional example, but one that resonates deeply with real-world loyalty and sacrifice.

Redefining Brotherhood in the 21st Century

We are entering an age where male intimacy-emotional, intellectual, and spiritual is becoming normalized. The next step is embracing it openly, modeling it for younger generations, and affirming that platonic love between men is not only valid but vital.

To every man reading this: Reach out to your friend. Tell him you appreciate him. Don’t shy away from connection. You don’t need a crisis to open up-just a willingness to be real.

Because in a world that often asks men to be strong, silent, and stoic, choosing to love platonically is a quiet, radical act of freedom.

Meanwhile, here's the top five news of the Day 

1. Federal immigrant agent shooting sparks national anger
A U.S. immigration agent shot and killed a U.S. citizen in Minneapolis on Jan. 24, triggering widespread protests and political fallout. The incident — the second fatal shooting by federal agents in recent weeks — has intensified scrutiny of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and drew condemnation from local and national leaders. 

2. Historic winter storm paralyzes large parts of the U.S.
A powerful winter storm sweeping across the U.S. has forced thousands of flight cancellations (including over 10,000 currently reported), widespread power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of customers, and major travel disruptions from Texas to New England. 

3. Major U.S. flight disruptions due to weather
Closely tied to the storm, airlines have cancelled nearly 4,000 flights nationwide as conditions deteriorate, marking one of the worst single-day disruption events in recent history. 

4. Alex Honnold scales Taipei 101
Iconic climber Alex Honnold has completed a high-profile free solo ascent of Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, in a major achievement celebrated by the climbing community. 

5. Australian Open — Sabalenka advances
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defeated Victoria Mboko to reach the quarterfinals of the 2026 Australian Open, a key early result in one of tennis’s biggest tournaments. 

Lastly, Did you Know that.....

In Ancient Rome, the middle finger had a name - "digitus impudicus" (the shameless finger). When Emperor Caligula wanted to humiliate his subjects, he would force them to kiss his middle finger. The gesture was so offensive that Emperor Augustus once banished an actor from Rome for flipping it to an audience member.

The Romans weren't the first to use this gesture though. Greek philosophers had been throwing up the middle finger since at least 419 BCE. In the comedy play "The Clouds," a character mocks Socrates by giving him the finger.

Ancient writers tell us the gesture was meant to represent male genitalia - with the middle finger being the phallus and the curled fingers on either side representing, well, you can guess. The Romans documented its use extensively, with poets like Martial writing about people using the "shameless finger" to insult doctors and enemies.

Even German tribes would taunt Roman soldiers by giving them the middle finger during battles, according to the historian Tacitus. Two thousand years later, this ancient gesture of disrespect lives on around the world.

Enjoyed Thai Food at Andaman Last Night

Ditas and I had a sumptuous dinner at Andaman Thai Restaurant located at Newell and South Carolina Blvd, Walnut Creek last night. The food was delicious and service was prompt. Ditas and I took some photos as follows:

Our Soft Shell Crab- Appetizer 

Our Seafood Feast-Calamari, shrimps. mussels, clams, white fish etc... 

Thai Pad-similar to our Filipino Pancit Dish 

    For Details visit their website: 

https://andamankitchen.com/menu/andamanthai-walnutcreek

Here's the AI Overview: 

Andaman Thai Cuisine

 is a family-owned restaurant in Walnut Creek specializing in authentic Southern Thai flavors, located directly across from the Kaiser Permanente hospital. It is highly regarded for its beautiful presentation, friendly service, and a menu that accommodates various dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options. 

Essential Information

• Address: 1560 Newell Ave, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
• Phone: +1 925-322-8667
• Hours:
  • Mon – Thu: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Fri: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  • Sat: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Website: andamankitchen.com 

Popular Menu Items

• Signature Dishes: Pumpkin Curry ($21.95), Pineapple Fried Rice (served in a hollowed pineapple, $18.95), and Pad Thai ($17.95).
• Recommended Appetizers: Fresh Spring Rolls, Chicken Satay, and Corn Fritters.
• Drinks & Desserts: Thai Iced Tea (often served with coconut milk) and Mango with Sweet Sticky Rice. 

Dining & Logistics

• Reservations: Accepted and recommended for weekend dinner or large groups. Smaller parties can often use an online waitlist.
• Parking: The on-site lot uses metered parking (approx. $2.00–$3.00/hour). Alternatively, the Broadway Plaza Parking Garage is nearby and offers the first three hours for free.
• Ambiance: Contemporary and cozy with both indoor and outdoor seating available.
• Service: Known for fast service, often seating guests within 10 minutes and serving entrees within 15 minutes of ordering. 

Meanwhile, Saturday Afternoon was fun with THD Card Making Activity hosted by capable Elane Johnson. I created three Happy Birthday Cards in less than 30 minutes. Here's the photo I took of my creation.  

Kudos to Elane for a well-coordinated activity on a beautiful Saturday Afternoon.