Art Bell reflects on the end of the holiday season, expressing relief at returning to normalcy after a period where many people slow down or stop their usual activities. He comments on a violent incident in the Middle East, where an Israeli soldier opened fire on Palestinians, and discusses severe weather conditions in Oregon, Washington, and California, including heavy rains, winds, and flooding.
Bell also touches on the topic of marijuana legalization, specifically the Clinton administration’s plans to sanction doctors who prescribe marijuana for medicinal purposes. He expresses support for states’ rights, highlighting the decisions made by California and Arizona to allow medicinal marijuana use and criticizing the federal government’s interference.
Art also mentions the release of hostages in Lima, Peru, and describes New Year’s celebrations in the United States, including a notable event in Las Vegas where the Hacienda Hotel was demolished in a spectacular explosion.
In this segment, Art Bell discusses various topics with his listeners. He mentions a recurring guest, “Mad Man Marcum,” who is known for his time travel theories. Bell also talks about the ongoing situation in Medford, which is under threat from floods, and humorously speculates about an alien invasion coinciding with Super Bowl Sunday.
Bell then moves on to discuss listener feedback and contributions. He mentions a victory in an “IRS war” in a chat room, thanking those who helped reclaim it. The show’s format of open lines allows listeners to bring up any topic, and Bell emphasizes this by inviting calls on any subject.
One caller, Jeff from Fort Wayne, brings up a religious question about polygamy in ancient times, wondering why it was acceptable then but not now. Bell engages in this discussion, pondering the societal and religious norms that have changed over time.
Another caller, Dinah from Tennessee, seeks advice about integrating a new cat into a household with existing cats. Bell and the caller discuss strategies for helping the cats adjust to each other, highlighting the importance of showing equal affection to all pets to maintain harmony.
This part of the episode showcases the diverse range of topics and interactions typical of Art Bell’s show, from serious discussions about societal changes to lighthearted advice on pet care.
In this part of the episode, Art Bell continues his conversation with listeners on a variety of topics. A caller from Portland, Oregon, discusses the impact of Californians moving to Oregon, suggesting they are responsible for ecological changes leading to soil erosion and flooding. The caller also brings up the comet Hale-Bopp, speculating about its potential effects on Earth.
Art Bell then addresses a question about why polygamy was acceptable in ancient times but not in modern society. He admits he doesn’t have an answer and invites listeners to share their thoughts.
The show also covers weather updates, with a focus on flooding in Idaho and Oregon. The National Weather Service in Boise has issued warnings for small stream floods due to continuous rains and melting snow. Several roads have been closed due to water, mud, and rockslides. The situation is described as a 100-year flood, with rivers expected to crest during the night.
Another caller from Ohio mentions a shortwave radio program discussing Hale-Bopp and its supposed influence on human consciousness. The caller suggests a guest for the show who believes the comet is referenced in the Bible and will bring a higher level of consciousness to people on Earth.
In this segment, Art Bell engages with more callers on a variety of intriguing topics. A caller from California discusses a mysterious countdown he heard on a radio station, which Bell speculates might be a publicity stunt for a new radio format. The conversation then shifts to the severe flooding in California, with the caller describing the situation in his area and expressing concern about the potential for a “hundred-year flood.”
Another caller, Les from Saint Paul, proposes a thought-provoking scenario about science fiction writers. He suggests that writers like Gene Roddenberry might be preparing humanity for future events or awakenings, hinting at the possibility of extraterrestrial life and visits to Earth. Bell engages with this idea, discussing the role of science fiction in reflecting and possibly predicting real-world events and phenomena.
The conversation takes a turn towards the hypothetical scenario of an alien invasion, similar to the movie “Independence Day.” Bell and the caller discuss the motivations and strategies of a hypothetical alien force, contemplating how such an event might unfold on Earth. Bell expresses his views on the realism of such scenarios in movies, critiquing the typical Hollywood ending where humanity triumphs against overwhelming odds.
In this segment, Art Bell discusses various topics with his callers. A caller expresses disappointment with the movie “Mars Attacks,” feeling that it didn’t live up to expectations despite doing well at the box office. The conversation then shifts to Howard Stern’s movie “Private Parts,” with a prediction about its potential success.
Another caller, Joe from Newberg, Oregon, brings up a unique question about what to call the first decade of the 21st century, suggesting names like “the arts” or “the zips.” He also raises the debate about when to celebrate the beginning of the 21st century, whether in 1999 or 2000. Joe mentions the ongoing flooding in Oregon, highlighting the concerns of many people in the area.
A caller named Pat from Redding shares her thoughts on why men in modern times are not allowed to have multiple wives, referencing a biblical perspective. She also discusses her disappointment with the movie “Fire in the Sky,” comparing it unfavorably to the real-life account she heard on Bell’s show.
Bell also revisits the topic of polygamy, discussing why it was acceptable in biblical times but not in modern society. A caller suggests that the prohibition of polygamy might be unconstitutional, citing the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Another caller believes that the law against polygamy was enacted in the late 1800s to prevent Utah from gaining statehood due to its association with Mormon polygamy.
In this segment, Art Bell engages with callers on a variety of intriguing topics. A caller from South Dakota discusses lunar maps and imagines Bell as a king, leading to a philosophical discussion about the nature of royalty and the concept of being born special. Bell reflects on the idea of royalty and how it contrasts with the American ethos of meritocracy.
The conversation then shifts to a caller from Colorado who discusses his new book about the coming millennium. He shares his concerns about potential terrorist attacks, particularly in New York, drawing parallels with biblical predictions. Bell and the caller discuss the nature of terrorism and the potential targets and methods terrorists might use, including biological weapons.
Another caller revisits the topic of polygamy, suggesting historical reasons for its decline related to economic and social factors. The discussion touches on how the practice of polygamy was influenced by economic considerations and societal changes.
In this segment, Art Bell discusses a variety of topics with his callers. One caller suggests that the prohibition of polygamy in the United States was influenced by bankers who were unhappy with the economic implications of multiple wives. This caller argues that in the past, multiple wives could help a man pay off several mortgages, but the bankers wanted to keep people in debt. Bell expresses skepticism about this theory, noting that it doesn’t quite make sense given historical norms around women’s work and the financial responsibilities of husbands.
Another caller from Los Angeles provides insight into the constitutionality of polygamy laws. He explains that the Supreme Court applies a specific intent rule to determine if a law abridges religious freedom. He cites a case in Florida where a law specifically targeting religious practices was deemed unconstitutional. However, he admits uncertainty about why a man can’t have multiple wives if that contributes to his happiness, under the general tenets of freedom.
The episode also touches on the topic of college football, with a caller suggesting that the primary purpose of college bowl games is to showcase players who might advance to the NFL.
In this segment, Art Bell discusses a range of topics with his callers. One caller expresses concern about a previous guest, Mad Man Markham, who is intent on conducting a dangerous experiment involving high voltage. Bell acknowledges the risks but also admires the determination and ingenuity of individuals like Markham.
Another caller shares a theory about the history of our solar system and mentions something traveling behind the comet Hale-Bopp. He plans to send Bell a fax with more information. This leads to a discussion about a rumor that a companion to Hale-Bopp is transmitting signals on the AM radio band.
A caller from Nevada brings up the topic of legalized gambling and topless bars in the state, and another suggests using bricklayers and cement masons to build portable walls to replace sandbags during floods. Bell humorously comments on the efficiency of having multiple wives in such a situation.
A caller from Houston inquires about Mr. Bopp, the co-discoverer of the comet Hale-Bopp, noting his silence in the media. This leads to a discussion about why Bopp hasn’t made any public statements.
The episode also touches on a peculiar observation by a caller who notices that the headlights of new car models resemble the almond-shaped eyes of the “Grays,” a common depiction of extraterrestrial beings in UFO lore.
In this segment, Art Bell continues to engage with a diverse range of topics brought up by his callers. One caller discusses the potential dangers of Mad Man Markham’s high-voltage experiments, while another shares a theory about car designs being influenced to resemble extraterrestrial beings, specifically the “Grays.”
Bell also discusses various natural phenomena, including volcanic activity in Iceland and the Caribbean, and the formation of a new Hawaiian island. A caller from Texas expresses concern about the potential for a tsunami in the Gulf of Mexico if the Montserrat volcano erupts.
The conversation shifts to political topics, with a caller mentioning a Clinton aide responsible for Gulf War records who has mysteriously vanished. Another caller criticizes the federal government’s stance on medical marijuana laws in Arizona, highlighting the disconnect between government actions and voter decisions.
In this segment, Art Bell and his callers delve into a variety of topics. A caller discusses the government’s approach to the war on drugs, particularly marijuana, criticizing it as hypocritical and out of touch with the public’s opinion. Bell agrees, suggesting that the government’s stance on marijuana should reflect its relative danger compared to other drugs.
Another caller predicts that the internet will collapse under its own weight due to commercialization and privatization. Bell counters with his own prediction, suggesting that the government will seek to control the internet by using a national security incident as a pretext.
The conversation then shifts to the potential dangers of biological weapons. Bell expresses concern that it would only take one person with sufficient resources to develop a weapon capable of causing massive destruction.
A caller from the Midwest shares his bleak outlook for the future, predicting widespread disaster by the year 2000. Bell challenges his certainty, emphasizing the unpredictability of such events.
The episode also touches on the comet Hale-Bopp and its alleged companion. A caller from Redding, California, discusses the situation in her area, where power outages and flooding are occurring. She mentions hearing a message on the radio about Hale-Bopp and its companion, adding to the mystery and speculation surrounding the comet.
In this segment, Art Bell and his callers delve into a mix of speculative and real-world topics. A caller from Las Vegas discusses the possibility of a meteor shower being broadcast first, aligning with his earlier prediction. Another caller theorizes about the use of oval gyros for anti-gravity purposes, suggesting that they could potentially be used in vehicles like cars.
Bell discusses the potential threat of asteroids changing their orbits and crossing Earth’s path, linking it to the upcoming NBC movie “Asteroid.” He expresses concern about life imitating art in this context.
A caller from California talks about a strange countdown being broadcast on the radio, adding to the mystery surrounding the comet Hale-Bopp and its alleged companion. This leads to a discussion about whether a new Hawaiian island, formed by volcanic activity, would automatically be part of the United States or up for grabs by other nations.
The conversation also touches on the flooding in California, with a caller from Redding describing her experience during the power outages and flooding. Another caller from Winnipeg, Manitoba, inquires about a radio station that carries the full program and expresses a desire to hear the entire show.
In this segment, Art Bell and his callers continue to explore a wide range of topics. A caller from Manitoba asks about the possibility of a local radio station in Winnipeg carrying Bell’s full program. Bell advises the caller to contact a local talk station and request them to call his network’s affiliate relations department.
The conversation then shifts to a caller who humorously claims to be a genetically sub-mutated human star being. Another caller from Las Vegas discusses the potential of oval gyros for anti-gravity purposes and how they might be used in vehicles.
Bell addresses a caller’s concern about the future of shortwave radio, explaining that technology has moved on and that satellite distribution is a more effective way to reach international audiences. He also humorously engages with a caller who suggests that women should have the right to multiple husbands in the spirit of equal rights.
A caller from Missouri brings up the topic of Title 50 in the U.S. Code, which was previously discussed on the show with guest Joyce Riley. The caller mentions that there was a block on accessing this information from university law websites, but Bell assures that the information is well known and available.
In this segment, Art Bell and his callers delve into a mix of speculative and real-world topics. A caller humorously suggests that the United Nations should let their soldiers out on U.S. bases to stretch their legs. Another caller, Robert, claims to have understood the design of an alien craft and the method of communication used by extraterrestrials, which he believes involves static electricity charges.
Bell shares his frustration about not being able to use his new telescope due to cloudy skies, despite living in the desert, which is usually prime viewing country. He humorously remarks that even being in the Trilateral Commission doesn’t guarantee clear skies.
A caller inquires about how Bell met Richard Hoagland, a frequent guest on the show known for his theories about extraterrestrial life and ancient civilizations. Bell recalls that a listener recommended interviewing Hoagland, leading to a long-standing collaboration.
The conversation also touches on ancient maps, with a caller discussing maps that allegedly show the Nile River and an ark, along with the word “corona.” The caller suggests that these maps could be from ancient times, possibly dating back to the era of Ptolemy in Egypt.
Bell humorously responds to a caller’s question about the meaning of life, suggesting that women are the answer. He also discusses the subjective nature of beauty and the importance of women in life.
A caller inquires about the Philadelphia Project, and Bell advises them to watch the movie “The Philadelphia Experiment” for more information. Another caller discusses the “Hail Mary” signal, a mysterious countdown broadcast on the radio, leading to speculation about its origin and meaning.
Bell humorously engages with a caller from Gillette, Wyoming, discussing the town’s size and comparing it to his own town in Nevada. They talk about the freedoms and lifestyle in their respective towns, with Bell noting the growth of his town due to low taxes and relative freedom.
A caller from Denver shares about a club party where they watched Bell’s segment on “Strange Universe,” the “Dark Skies” episode, and “Strange Harvest” with Linda Moulton Howe. The caller also mentions a planned book signing by Whitley Strieber in Denver and expresses a desire for Bell to interview Shirley MacLaine.
In this segment, Art Bell and his callers continue to explore a variety of topics. A caller from Huntsville, Texas, discusses the conflict between Arizona and the federal government over marijuana laws. He suggests that Arizona should hold a no-confidence vote against the federal government and consider secession if the vote is negative.
Bell then discusses his presence in a new chat room on his website, inviting listeners to join him for a discussion. He humorously recounts a previous experience where chat room participants didn’t believe it was actually him.
A caller from Washington inquires about the IRS and an earlier victory Bell mentioned. Bell explains that it was a victory achieved by knowledgeable people in an Internet Relay Chat (IRC) room.
The conversation shifts to the new island forming off Hawaii. The caller speculates that Hawaiian natives might claim the island, given their desire to secede from the United States. Bell and the caller discuss territorial waters and the potential for international disputes over new land.
Another caller, Robert, returns to discuss his theory about an alien vehicle powered by static electricity. He relates this to his studies of the ancient pyramids and Stonehenge, suggesting a connection between these structures and electrical fields.
A caller from Huntsville, Texas, discusses the idea of Arizona seceding from the United States due to conflicts with the federal government over marijuana laws. Bell ponders the implications of such a move and how the federal government might respond.
Bell invites listeners to join him in a chat room on his website and announces a contest to create a new logo for his web page. He encourages those skilled in computer graphics to submit their designs.
A caller from Kansas, identifying as a conservative, shares his thoughts on polygamy. He argues that declaring polygamy unconstitutional would be problematic, as it would imply judging religions as good or bad. The caller humorously suggests that legalizing polygamy could put mistresses and prostitutes out of work and discusses the practical challenges of having multiple wives in American society.
A caller from Los Angeles expresses frustration with the federal government’s interference in state decisions, particularly regarding marijuana laws in California and Arizona. Bell discusses previous instances where state laws were overturned by federal or judicial intervention.
Bell humorously engages with a caller who inquires about his knowledge of radio transmitters. The caller seeks advice for fixing a TV with a smoked transistor, leading to a discussion about electronic repairs.
Another caller brings up the Trilateral Commission, mentioning a family connection to the Skull and Crossbones society. Bell responds humorously, alluding to his own supposed involvement with such organizations.
A caller from Austin, Texas, who identifies as a professional clairvoyant, predicts that 1997 will be the year of large earthquakes in California. He claims to have consistently seen this in his readings and warns of three significant quakes, with the first one expected to hit Southern California in January.
Another caller discusses the mysterious “Hail Mary” signal, a countdown broadcast on the radio. The caller recalls a similar experience from a few years ago, which turned out to be a promotional stunt for a new radio station. Bell humorously engages with this theory, acknowledging the likelihood of it being a radio promotion but also enjoying the speculative nature of the conversation.
Bell also talks about his chat room on his website, inviting listeners to join the discussion. He humorously recounts a previous experience where chat room participants didn’t believe it was actually him.
A caller from Alabama discusses the financial challenges of polygamy, humorously considering the implications of buying diamond rings for multiple wives. Bell also talks about a contest to create a new graphic for his web page.
A caller from Portland, Oregon, predicts that Hillary Clinton will be charged with or cited for contempt of Congress. Bell speculates on the potential actions President Clinton might take in such a scenario, including the possibility of issuing a pardon.
Another caller, identifying as a regular user of Bell’s IRC channel, discusses the recent battle to reclaim the channel from intruders. Bell humorously recounts crashing his own chat room due to the influx of users.
A caller from Redding, California, shares his experiences with dreams that later become reality. He describes these as common everyday occurrences that turn into deja vu moments.
A caller from the Bay Area in California discusses a seismologist’s prediction of a significant earthquake, which had caused concern for his daughter visiting from Texas. Bell recalls having a seismologist on the show but doesn’t remember the specific prediction.
Another caller raises concerns about the impact of increased ultraviolet and X-ray radiation due to the thinning ozone layer. He speculates about the potential approach of a rogue comet or star system impacting the Oort Cloud, which could lead to a significant increase in cometary activity in the solar system. The caller emphasizes the need for preventive measures and broader awareness of such cosmic threats.
A caller from Glendale comments on the negative nature of earthquake predictions, preferring to trust in natural phenomena like rainbows rather than conjecture. He mentions the challenges of making accurate predictions and the potential consequences of creating panic.
Bell also talks about the contest for a new graphic for his web page and invites submissions from listeners skilled in computer graphics.
Bell also talks about his plans to interview Orson Scott Card, the author of “Ender’s Game,” and discusses the impact of Card’s work on science fiction literature.