FUFOR - 1989 12 - Letter to fund supporters - Elaine Douglas scan

Magazine Overview

This document is a newsletter from the Fund for UFO Research Inc., dated December 1989. It serves as an update to supporters, detailing the organization's activities and achievements over the past year and outlining its goals for the future. The newsletter emphasizes the significant UFO activity and developments that marked the end of the 1980s.

Key Developments and Investigations

Videotapes and Photographs The Fund is actively involved in facilitating computer-enhanced analyses of UFO footage. This includes a Saturn-shaped UFO filmed in Japan and a videotape shot by an official of the Dutch Ministry of Defense in Spain. Additionally, the Fund supported the analysis of photos and videos from the Gulf Breeze, Florida, case, which concluded that a hoax was unlikely.

MJ-12 and Roswell Investigations A significant grant was awarded to nuclear physicist Stanton Friedman to investigate the alleged "MJ-12" presidential briefing paper and the UFO crash incident near Roswell, New Mexico, in July 1947. New leads in the Roswell case are expected to result in Friedman's report in early 1990. Contributors of $50 or more will receive a copy of this report before its public release.

Alien Abductions The Fund supported the first major conference on the abduction phenomenon, attended by psychiatrists and psychologists. It also provided a grant to Budd Hopkins for his ongoing research into abductions. Furthermore, the Fund is involved in analyzing a tiny object implanted in an "abductee" during a remembered experience, which is currently in the possession of a scientist at a northeastern university.

Scientific Liaison

To foster engagement with the scientific community, the Fund is coordinating a project to gather statements from scientists involved in UFO research. These statements are intended for circulation among peers, policymakers, and the media.

Summary of Grants (Past Year)

The newsletter provides a detailed summary of grants made by the Fund in 1989, totaling $49,215.80 in expenditures and commitments:

• Rima E. Laibow, M.D.: $23,438.50 spent in 1989 for the "Treatment Research on Experienced Anomalous Phenomena (TREAT)" conference in Fairfield, CT. $1,000 committed for the proceedings of TREAT II.
• Stanton T. Friedman: $12,000 spent in 1989 for research into the "MJ-12" paper and related personalities. A final payment of $4,000 is expected in early 1990, bringing the total committed to $16,000.
• Budd Hopkins: $2,000 spent to provide clerical assistance for his research on UFO abduction cases.
• Physicist at Northeastern University: $2,000 committed for the analysis of an anomalous object associated with an "abductee."
• Marge Christensen: $1,562.11 spent to support a presentation on UFOs at the National Science Teachers Association convention.
• Laboratory Analyses: $1,321.10 spent for the analysis of an alleged transmission from the space shuttle Discovery, which yielded insufficient evidence.
• Robert Oechsler: $899.70 spent for follow-up investigation and interviews related to UFOs in Gulf Breeze, FL.

Fund's Accomplishments and Future Needs

In its 10th year, the Fund for UFO Research highlights its accomplishments in scientific research (over 20 grants) and public education (conferences, media campaigns). The organization operates entirely on private donations, raising over $150,000 since 1979, and dedicates 100% of its revenue to its mission, accepting no government funds. As the 1990s begin, the Fund emphasizes the need for continued support to investigate new sightings, analyze physical evidence, and fund expensive computer-enhanced studies of UFO photographs, as all current assets are committed to ongoing projects.

Call for Contributions

The newsletter concludes with a direct appeal for additional contributions, stressing that the responsibility for resolving the UFO mystery now rests with the private sector. Contributors of $25 or more will receive a copy of Marge Christensen's report on UFO history and research status. Those contributing $50 or more will also receive the results of Stan Friedman's research into MJ-12 and Roswell before public release. The newsletter promises to keep donors informed of new developments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter's stance is one of active promotion and support for scientific investigation into the UFO phenomenon. It highlights the importance of rigorous research, public education, and private funding in advancing understanding. The editorial tone is urgent, emphasizing the critical juncture in UFO research and the need for immediate financial support to capitalize on new opportunities and evidence. The organization positions itself as a leader in the field, dedicated to uncovering the truth about UFOs and their impact on human history.