Extraordinary embraced at Calif. UFO Expo

SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 26 (UPI) -- About 1,200 people gathered this weekend discuss the extraordinary things in life during the annual Bay Area UFO Expo in San Jose, Calif.

The San Jose (Calif.) Mercury News said Sunday that those wishing to discuss the world's unusual and unexplained events could also embrace their quirky side by purchasing an Official Tinfoil Hat for $20 at the event.

While such amusing offerings were available, the event's co-producer said it is primarily oriented toward spreading a belief in the unknown.

"The people who come here are very devoted to the science," Robert Perala said. "This is a safe place to report the extraordinary things that happen to people."

"And for those who aren't believers," he added, "as long as they are asking deeper questions about the nature of mortality and the fact that they may not be alone, that's all right, too."

For those more interested in traditional conference fare, a booth was set up at the event to garner support for Ron Paul, a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination.