Military thriller author and former Air Force Capt., Dale Brown returned for a discussion about his research and writing. The research is used to create a feeling of authenticity and realism in his novels, he explained. In his latest, Edge of Battle, Brown looked at different potential scenarios involving the US/Mexico border, such as a face-off between the Mexican Army and the National Guard. He also envisions new technologies such as armed robots and unmanned aerial vehicles being deployed on the border.

Brown offered advice for first time writers, suggesting that they complete their first draft before trying to market it, as some publishers or agents might immediately want to read the manuscript after being approached. He also recommended that people not get too discouraged with initial rejections and stressed the importance of finding a book agent. The best approach in contacting publishers and agents is to email a "dynamite" query letter that is no longer than 200-250 words but "really hits 'em between the eyes." Typically they are looking for plots and characters that will take them on an intense journey or ride, he said.

In Brown's next book he will be dealing with exotic space technology. Specifically, he has researched small aircraft that can be sent into orbit without the cumbersome boosters of larger rockets, using lasers as ignition sources for fuel.

The 4th hour of the show was devoted to Open Lines.

Morgellons & Animal Mutilations

First hour guest, reporter and editor of Earthfiles.com, Linda Moulton Howe presented updates on cattle mutilations and Morgellons syndrome. In April, a rancher from Lamar, CO found a mutilated cow that had been in the process of giving birth to a calf, indicating that the incident happened rapidly, she reported. Also, there were no signs of struggle as the grass in the area was untouched.

Linda announced that the first epidemiological study of the mysterious Morgellons disease is underway. The ailment is associated with intense itching and lesions that have strange fibers emerging from them (she sent us two photomicrographs of the types of fibers that have been associated with the syndrome). About half the people who have Morgellons also test positive for Lyme disease, and there is also a correlation with those who've lived in flooded areas that had mold problems, she noted. For more info, visit the Morgellons Research Foundation.