2005-- 6 Constitution Change

Magazine Overview

This document consists of two letters from BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) detailing significant organizational changes. The first letter, dated sometime before March 2006 (as it references changes effective September 3rd, 2005), outlines the rationale and implementation of a major restructuring. The second letter, dated March 15, 2006, provides an update and reiterates the changes, including the enclosure of refund cheques for overpaid memberships.

Organizational Restructuring and Transition

The primary focus of these communications is BUFORA's decision to move away from a traditional paying membership model and a bi-monthly journal. The organization recognized the changing landscape of ufology, including a decline in sightings, media attention on closing groups, and a shift in research emphasis. The rise of the internet as a primary communication medium was also a key factor. BUFORA felt its existing web site was not being fully maximized.

To address these changes, BUFORA decided to amalgamate its journal with a completely new web site. This new 'journo-web' site aims to negate the need for a paying membership while still offering a means for individuals to associate with the organization. The transition officially took place on September 3rd, 2005. All applications for new or renewed membership after this date were declined, and monies were returned.

Membership and Subscription Model

Existing members who had paid for subscriptions extending beyond November 2005 were to receive pro-rata refunds for the remaining months. BUFORA assured members that details would be retained, and they would be canvassed nearer the launch of the new subscription-based journo-web site. The new site will feature initial free access pages, similar to other websites. However, subscription will grant access to a journal-specific section. This section will include familiar journal features, new material, an interactive forum, an occasional BUFORA competition, and greater opportunities for involvement in research projects and real-time interaction with BUFORA personnel.

The cost of subscription was yet to be finalized at the time of the first letter but would be provided upon request or via the new web site. The web site address remains unchanged: www.bufora.org.uk.

Update and Continued Operations

The second letter, from Judy Jaafar (secretary), dated March 15, 2006, confirms the EGM held on November 12th, 2005, where the majority of responding members voted in favour of restructuring. BUFORA has ceased to be a paying membership organisation that produced a bi-monthly journal. The organization continues to operate fully via its website, which is now the vehicle for publishing news, views, investigations, and research. The Postal Training Course remains available.

The Directorship was still discussing the proposed subscription area of the site, which was not yet operational. Members would be notified via an announcement on the site once a decision was made. In the interim, all areas of the BUFORA website were free to access.

BUFORA expressed gratitude for the loyalty and support of its members over the years. Despite the structural changes, the organization affirmed that it is still investigating UFOs and encourages continued interest and input from the public. Members are invited to contact BUFORA via letter, email, or telephone with their views, sightings, reports, and comments.

Contact Information

Queries could be answered by calling 020 8997 3496 or emailing [email protected]. The registered office of BUFORA LTD is 41 Castlebar Rd., London W5 2DJ, with a postal address of BM BUFORA, LONDON, WCIN 3XX. The company is registered in London, number 1234924, and registered under the Data Protection Act, registration no. F0779204.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme is adaptation and evolution in response to the changing ufological landscape and the digital age. BUFORA demonstrates a proactive stance, embracing change to remain relevant and effective in its research and dissemination of information. The editorial stance is one of transparency, member engagement, and a commitment to continued UFO investigation, albeit through a modernized operational model. The organization seeks to maintain its community and research efforts by leveraging online platforms.