1994-05-24 – Open Lines – Angels, Bizarre Stories

Show: Coast To Coast AM

Air Date: May 24, 1994

Guest(s): Open Lines

Topic(s): Angels, Bizarre Stories

Art begins by announcing an upcoming guest, Preston Nichols, who will talk about the Montauk Project and the Philadelphia Experiment.

Art begins with a story about a controversial math test involving inappropriate content that was distributed to sixth graders in Chicago, leading to parental outrage and potential firing of the teacher responsible. The show then shifts to the political turmoil in Mexico, highlighting the uncertain future of democracy there and the impact of NAFTA on Mexico’s economy, particularly noting Ford’s increasing car sales in the Mexican market.

Art also talks about an NBC special titled “Angels: The Mysterious Messengers,” which captivated him. This special featured stories from World War I to the present about guardian angels intervening in moments of danger or distress. One particularly chilling story involved a woman who felt a mysterious hand holding her back from entering a building, where a murder had just occurred.

Art touches on a government initiative to create an ID card for Americans to interact with federal agencies. This proposal, discussed at a security conference, involves using smart card technology for various purposes, including email authentication and financial transactions. Art questions the implications of such a card on personal privacy and government surveillance.

Art discusses the proposal for a new national ID card, designed to interact with federal government agencies using smart card technology. Art raises questions about the potential implications of such cards for privacy and fraud prevention, and whether they could be perceived as an infringement on personal freedom.

The show then covers a significant shift in the television network landscape, with major affiliates switching from CBS to the Fox network. This change reflects the evolving nature of television and the potential decline of traditional networks.

Art also previews an upcoming show featuring Preston Nichols, co-author of “The Montauk Project,” promising an insightful discussion about the project and its connections to the Philadelphia Experiment.

The conversation then turns to listener calls. One caller discusses the sentencing of terrorists involved in the New York Trade Center bombing, expressing a belief that harsher penalties, including the death penalty, should be applied to such crimes. The discussion includes perspectives on the national ID card, with the caller expressing support for it but drawing the line at any markings on the body, referencing the biblical “mark of the beast.”

The discussion continues with a mention of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s reading from the Bible at Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s funeral, which the caller interprets as a description of the Rapture. Art and the caller also touch upon the topic of angels, linking it back to the NBC special and their personal beliefs in such entities.

One caller recounts a potentially supernatural experience where he believes an angel intervened during a car accident. He describes being hit by a car while retrieving a hubcap, feeling as if he was caught and lowered gently to the ground by an unseen force. The caller’s father, who witnessed the accident, did not see anyone physically assist, leading to a discussion about whether such experiences could be hallucinations or actual encounters with angels. This aligns with stories shared on the NBC special about angels intervening in critical moments.

Another caller raises concerns about societal issues, questioning the focus on welfare fraud and illegal immigration while alleging neglect of white middle-class crimes like tax evasion and child abuse. The caller criticizes the proposed national ID card, suggesting it targets minorities and lower-class individuals while ignoring more significant issues like corporate embezzlement and military actions. Art acknowledges these concerns, pointing out the complexities in addressing societal problems and the influence of money and power in decision-making.

A discussion ensues about the concept of a national ID card. One caller draws a parallel between the proposed ID card and the identification papers used in Nazi Germany, expressing concern about potential government control and infringement on personal freedoms. Art acknowledges these concerns but also highlights the potential benefits of such a card in combating crime, welfare fraud, and illegal immigration.

A caller from Phoenix, Arizona, emphasizes the importance of balancing the need to address illegal immigration with the rights of American citizens. Art echoes these sentiments, pointing out the economic burden illegal immigration can place on states like California, and the tough decisions that need to be made.

The topic shifts to healthcare, with a discussion about the merits and drawbacks of a single-payer healthcare system. Art admits that while he is not a proponent of socialism, he finds the simplicity of a single-payer plan appealing compared to more complicated alternatives.

The conversation returns to the subject of angels, with callers sharing their beliefs and experiences. One caller suggests that encounters with angels might be a protective mechanism of the mind during times of extreme stress or fear, serving as a way to escape a perceived hopeless situation. The discussion touches on the spiritual aspect of human existence and the impact of such encounters on people’s lives.

A caller from Salem, Oregon, discusses their belief in angels, suggesting that such encounters lead to life and hope. Art remains skeptical, noting his similar tingling sensations during ghost stories and questioning whether these feelings indicate truth or are simply reactions to fear and the unknown.

The conversation then shifts back to societal and political issues. Art addresses a fax from a listener named Doc Berry, who challenges Art’s assertion about the drastic cutbacks in the military budget. Art stands by his opinion, citing base closures and discharges as evidence of significant reductions in military spending. He expresses concern about the potential consequences of these cutbacks, especially in the context of international conflicts like the situation in Korea.

The discussion moves on to the proposed $2 increase in cigarette taxes, advocated by Dr. Koop and President Carter, and the controversy surrounding it. Art reads a listener’s defiant response to this proposal, reflecting the polarized views on tobacco taxation.

Art then updates listeners on various news items, including the $46 million settlement Denny’s must pay to their black customers, the sentencing of terrorists involved in the Trade Center bombing, and the debate over Most Favored Nation treatment for China.

The show also touches on the national identity card proposal by the Clinton administration, which has garnered mixed reactions from callers. Art refers to it as the “Fed Card,” highlighting its potential to address issues like illegal immigration and fraud, but also acknowledging concerns that it could be perceived as an infringement on personal freedoms.

Art discusses the NBC special “Angels: The Mysterious Messengers,” which documented various incidents from World War I to the present day where people claimed to have been visited by angels. He poses the question to his audience about whether they believe these are genuine angelic interventions or just the mind’s response to imminent mortal danger.

A caller from Bakersfield, Kansas, shares her shock about the recent Denny’s racial discrimination lawsuit settlement and recounts a related incident involving an NBC cameraman. Art reflects on the senselessness of racial division and its negative impact on society.

Another caller from Salem, Oregon, expresses her feelings about the angels program, saying it left her hopeful yet skeptical. She considers angels to be like “foot soldiers” working for a higher power. Art agrees, saying that he is intrigued and drawn to these mysterious areas, which is why he created his show “Dreamland” to explore such topics.

A caller from Denver, Colorado, offers his perspective on angels, agreeing that they are like “foot soldiers” and not departed souls. He believes in the existence of a spiritual battle and suggests that humans are more spiritual than they realize or understand. He also touches on the theory that humans use only a small fraction of their brain power, linking it to potential untapped spiritual capabilities.

Art Bell and a caller debate whether humanity is evolving or devolving, particularly in terms of using brain capacity and spiritual awareness. They discuss the depressing notion that if humans are using less of their brain, it might indicate a devolution, especially as younger generations seem less concerned about life’s spiritual aspect.

A caller from Wichita, Kansas, expresses belief in angels, though he missed the NBC special. He also comments on the national ID card, sharing concerns about privacy and the ease of tracking individuals using such cards. Art mentions the issue with social security numbers in Nevada being linked to driver’s licenses, highlighting the already prevalent tracking systems.

Another caller from Phoenix, Arizona, touches on the topic of social class and government programs. He shares a personal experience related to food stamps and discusses the broader issue of targeting lower-income individuals while larger-scale corporate crimes seem to go unchecked.

Art Bell and a caller discuss an encounter with a woman who tried to sell food stamps illegally, leading to a broader discussion about the morality and legality of helping those in need. Art shares a similar experience, highlighting the complexity and potential risks involved in such situations.

The show then shifts to a disturbing story about a sci-fi-like virus reported on CNN, allegedly causing rapid, fatal muscle liquidation in Scotland. Art expresses his concern about the possibility of such a virus being ecologically produced or accidentally released from a lab.

Another alarming topic raised is a crime prevention program in St. Louis, where police officers reportedly ask residents in poor neighborhoods for permission to search their homes for guns. Art criticizes this practice as intimidating and potentially unconstitutional, reflecting on the balance between law enforcement and civil liberties.

A caller from Arizona discusses the proposed $2 tax on cigarettes, suggesting it might inadvertently boost the black market. She also comments on military base closures, supporting Art’s view that these cutbacks are more significant than some believe, contrary to claims by a listener named Doc Berry.

A caller from Tucson expresses concerns about the political divide in the U.S. and his disappointment with some decisions made by President Clinton, particularly regarding military actions. He discusses the challenges faced by the military due to budget cuts and the stretching of resources. Art agrees, noting that this is a common pattern in periods of peace.

The caller also shares his worries about extreme groups on both sides of the political spectrum who may potentially undermine the Constitution. He emphasizes his commitment to upholding the Constitution, despite his concerns about current leaders.

Another caller from Wichita revisits the topic of societal devolution, suggesting that major religions also point to a decline in moral and spiritual values. The caller speculates on the lack of evidence for evolution and expresses concerns about the increasing emphasis on technology and materialism over spiritual values. He believes that human life is a miraculous gift and that there is something within humans equal to the divine.

A caller from Tucson shares concerns about the political divide in the U.S. and expresses disappointment with President Clinton’s actions, particularly in military contexts. The caller, identifying as a liberal and a Democrat, mentions his military background and worries about the U.S. stretching its military resources too thin.

Another caller discusses the concept of the government as a supercomputer that has grown beyond control, posing the question of whether the states can “unplug” it before it destroys its creator. Art responds with a sense of uncertainty about whether this process can be reversed, given the current trajectory of civilization and social structure.

There’s also a mention of a newsflash about Dan Rostenkowski possibly resigning, a topic that hadn’t yet fully developed at the time of the call. Additionally, a caller shares a story claiming that George Bush was visited by an angel, advising him on matters related to Israel.

One discussion revolves around a caller’s disagreement with the handling of a property rights issue, emphasizing the importance of the Seventh Amendment and the right to a jury trial. Art acknowledges the complexity of the situation and hopes for a fair resolution through the court system.

Art also addresses a frightening report about a deadly virus in Scotland, which supposedly liquidates muscle or fat at a rapid rate. He expresses his concern about the lack of media coverage on this potentially significant health threat, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about such issues.

The conversation then shifts to a controversial crime prevention program in St. Louis, where police propose to search the homes of juveniles arrested for gun offenses. Initially, there were concerns about this being a random door-to-door search, but Art receives a clarification that it’s more targeted. He finds this approach reasonable and necessary to control teenage gun violence.

The discussion continues with a debate about the proposed national ID card. Art ponders its potential to reduce illegal immigration and government fraud, but also considers the concerns about it being perceived as an infringement on personal freedoms.

The conversation then shifts to the $46 million settlement by Denny’s in a discrimination lawsuit. Art questions the listeners about their views on this and other current topics like the Trade Center sentencing, Most Favored Nation trading status for China, and the discontent in Mexico.

A caller from Collinsville, Illinois, brings up the issue of police roadblocks in St. Louis’ Forest Park, where vehicles are being searched for ammo, guns, and drugs. Art discusses the balance between security and the Fourth Amendment rights, emphasizing the importance of a reasonable basis for searches.

Another caller discusses Richard Hoagland’s upcoming announcement about his findings on the dark side of the moon, including what Hoagland believes to be a miles-high glass structure. Art expresses his interest in this topic and mentions scheduling Hoagland for an upcoming show.

Additionally, Art previews an upcoming show with Preston Nichols, co-author of “The Montauk Project,” which delves into topics like the Philadelphia Experiment.

A caller from Collinsville, Illinois, discusses Richard Hoagland’s theories about structures on the Moon, suggesting that enhancements of NASA photos on home computers reveal these structures. The caller also references Hoagland’s interpretations of the Clementine mission images and the mathematical significance he finds in the distances on Mars and the Moon.

Another caller brings up a local issue in St. Louis involving police roadblocks at Forest Park, where cars are being searched for guns, ammo, and drugs. Art and the caller debate the legality and ethics of such searches, considering the balance between public safety and constitutional rights.

A discussion about Haiti’s role as a transshipment point for cocaine leads to broader questions about U.S. foreign policy and its implications. One caller speculates that the U.S. may not intervene in Haiti due to the drug money involved, which Art challenges by comparing it to the U.S. intervention in Panama.

The conversation also touches on the conservative movement in America, with a caller suggesting that the country is headed towards socialism. Art reflects on this viewpoint, pondering the potential political shifts in the U.S.

Additionally, there is a mention of new findings suggesting Saddam Hussein used chemical warfare, raising concerns about the health issues faced by veterans.

The discussion includes a debate on the reasonableness of police conducting searches in homes where juveniles have been caught with guns. Art argues that if parents consent to a search, it seems reasonable, especially in preventing further illegal activities. However, a caller raises concerns about deviations from standard legal procedures, emphasizing the need for search warrants.

One caller from Sacramento, identifying as a new Democrat, discusses political alignment and expresses agreement with some of Art’s views. They discuss the concept of being socially liberal but fiscally conservative and touch upon the idea of a flat tax.

The topic of intervention in Haiti is also brought up, with both Art and the caller agreeing that if intervention is necessary, it should be executed swiftly and effectively to minimize harm.

Art Bell and a caller from Oklahoma discuss the reasonableness of police searches in homes where juveniles are caught with guns. The conversation touches on the necessity of obtaining search warrants and the balance between law enforcement actions and constitutional rights.

A caller from California criticizes the conservative ideology as selfish, prompting a debate with Art about the nature of conservative and liberal policies, particularly in relation to health care and welfare training. The caller also expresses support for strong law enforcement measures in areas experiencing high rates of violence, advocating for a more aggressive approach to ensure public safety.

The conversation then shifts to national politics, with a discussion about Jennifer Flowers’ claims regarding Bill Clinton. The callers and Art debate the credibility of such claims and the complexities of assessing the truth in such situations.

Another caller mentions the Hawaiian legislature’s consideration of an “ultimatum resolution,” which would address concerns about the national debt and potential subversion of Congress. The caller also inquires about a bulletin board system mentioned on the show.

A caller discusses a book titled “Where Angels Walk” by Joan Wester Anderson, which recounts true stories of heavenly visitors. This leads to a conversation about the recent NBC special on angels, which Art found very impactful. The special covered various accounts of angelic encounters from World War I to the present day, causing a strong emotional reaction in Art.

Another caller from Seattle, who prefers to listen to the show on a Reno station rather than the local Seattle one, comments on the media’s approach to ‘hot talk’ and shares his appreciation for Art’s patience and personality on the show. The caller also praises Art’s ability to engage with diverse viewpoints.

Art and the callers discuss why there is a sudden increase in media coverage on topics like past life regression, near-death experiences, and UFOs, pondering the reasons behind this growing interest.

The conversation also touches on upcoming guests on the show, including Preston Nichols and astronomer Tom Van Flandern, indicating the show’s ongoing interest in exploring various unexplained and intriguing phenomena.

One caller shares his personal story of being paralyzed from the waist down due to a car accident and his subsequent quest for healing through various means, including visits to holy sites and psychics. He expresses frustration and questions why he wasn’t protected or healed by an angelic presence, leading to a discussion about the potential reasons for suffering and the role of divine intervention.

Art and the caller delve into philosophical and spiritual theories, including karma and reincarnation, as potential explanations for the caller’s condition. The caller seeks information on psychic healing, specifically for paraplegia and quadriplegia, as he has found no documented cases of recovery from these conditions through spiritual means.

Art empathizes with the caller’s plight and encourages him to continue his search for healing, acknowledging that he would take the same approach if he were in a similar situation.

The conversation then shifts to a call from Denver, where a listener discusses appearances by Larry Nichols, a controversial figure, on local talk shows. The caller mentions an ‘unofficial baiting’ he did for Art during one of Nichols’ appearances.

One caller discusses Larry Nichols, who has made serious allegations against President Clinton. Nichols has been invited to appear on Art’s show, but despite numerous contacts, he has not yet appeared. Art expresses his desire to ask Nichols tough questions about his allegations, emphasizing the need for hard evidence and clarity.

Another caller, Maggie from Montana, takes offense at Art’s previous comments about “stupid” answering services. Art clarifies that his issue is not with the operators themselves but with the limitations of such services in selling products and providing detailed information. He acknowledges the value of human interaction and apologizes for any offense caused.

The conversation shifts to a caller from Phoenix who talks about a local talk show host’s investigation into allegations made by Linda Thompson regarding the Waco incident. The caller mentions a publication called “White Papers” and discusses the technical flaws pointed out in Thompson’s work, leading to discussions about government overreach and conspiracy theories.

One caller discusses Larry Nichols, who has made serious allegations against President Clinton. Nichols has been invited to appear on Art’s show, but despite numerous contacts, he has not yet appeared. Art expresses his desire to ask Nichols tough questions about his allegations, emphasizing the need for hard evidence and clarity.

Another caller, Maggie from Montana, takes offense at Art’s previous comments about “stupid” answering services. Art clarifies that his issue is not with the operators themselves but with the limitations of such services in selling products and providing detailed information. He acknowledges the value of human interaction and apologizes for any offense caused.

The conversation shifts to a caller from Phoenix who talks about a local talk show host’s investigation into allegations made by Linda Thompson regarding the Waco incident. The caller mentions a publication called “White Papers” and discusses the technical flaws pointed out in Thompson’s work, leading to discussions about government overreach and conspiracy theories.

The conversation shifts to a caller who comments on the Denny’s discrimination lawsuit. They discuss the importance of treating all customers equally regardless of race and suggest that financial repercussions are an effective way to enforce fair treatment by businesses.

Art also touches on the topic of people talking to themselves, humorously suggesting that they might be rehearsing arguments or simply enjoying music on the radio.

The segment then moves to a discussion about a recent health scare involving a flesh-eating streptococcus bacteria. Art reads a news piece detailing the history of the bacteria, its symptoms, and the recent cases in Britain. He expresses concern about the rapid and deadly nature of the infection, emphasizing the need for effective and timely treatment.

One caller discusses his concerns about the healthcare plan proposed by President Clinton, emphasizing the potential for an incremental expansion of government control over healthcare. He expresses skepticism about the plan, citing fears of increasing government power and the abolition of private property under the guise of healthcare reform.

Another caller from Seattle shares his views on the social irresponsibility of conservatives, stating his belief in a government of, by, and for the people. He mentions his personal experiences and affiliations, including interactions with several presidents and living under socialized medicine.

Art listens to these viewpoints and responds with his own opinions, particularly expressing a preference for a single-payer healthcare system over the proposed plan by President Clinton. He challenges the Seattle caller to explain what he means by labeling conservatives as socially irresponsible.

One caller from Seattle talks about the state of children in America, comparing his experiences in Europe with the situation in the United States. He criticizes conservative policies for not adequately supporting children and expresses his views on the benefits of socialized healthcare systems he experienced abroad. Art counters this by noting that during the Reagan administration, overall funding for children increased, not decreased.

The discussion then shifts to a caller who wants to discuss Linda Thompson’s tape about the Waco incident. This caller has analyzed a particular scene from the tape using a digital video effects unit and believes it shows actual fire, contradicting claims that it was a reflection or a piece of drywall. Art is skeptical and expresses a desire to see the entire sequence to better understand the context. He emphasizes the importance of viewing the whole tape rather than focusing on one edited scene.

One caller from Kodiak, Alaska, claims to have opened the revelation seals mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Revelation. He asserts that he found these seals in a library in San Bernardino and was guided by the Holy Spirit. The caller’s story is unusual and intriguing, and Art Bell reacts with fascination and a bit of skepticism, reflecting on the diverse and unexpected nature of calls he receives on the show.

Another caller discusses the extension of Most Favored Nation status to China by President Clinton. The caller believes that while the decision might be politically challenging for Clinton, it is necessary and will be made for the wrong reasons. Art agrees, noting the complexity and political implications of such decisions.

The segment also includes a caller who believes they are an angel or a holy spirit, citing a near-death experience that led to this belief. The caller describes experiencing a heightened sense of awareness and knowledge during this experience.

A caller from Mount Rainier, Washington, describes a profound personal change following what he believes was a death experience. He narrates standing with his arms outstretched in a cross-like position and feeling a sense of being reborn. He claims this experience made him a better person, transitioning from a disrespectful attitude towards others to a more enlightened state. Art listens but expresses skepticism about the caller’s story, particularly questioning the lack of medical verification of the caller’s claimed death experience.

Another caller from Honolulu, a jeweler by profession, discusses his relationship with gold. Initially fascinated by its beauty, he shares that over time, familiarity led him to take gold for granted. He humorously suggests that there are ‘gold gods’ who require tribute from those who work with gold, explaining that he often gets minor injuries from working with the metal.