MUFON-AZ Newsletter

Magazine Overview

This issue of the MUFON-AZ Newsletter, Volume 8, Issue 8, dated September 22, 1999, focuses on UFO phenomena, government involvement, and related topics. The cover features the MUFON logo and the headline "The Truth is Out There."

Key Information and Announcements

The newsletter begins with contact information for MUFON Arizona Chapter directors and staff. A "Directors Message" from Alan Morey announces William F. Hassel, Ph.D., as the new Section Director for the Sedona area and previews upcoming guest speakers. It also mentions a recent issue with a transformer blowing at a meeting and an upcoming "September Book Sale and MEGA Raffle" to reward members.

Upcoming Meeting Details

The September 22, 1999 meeting at the National Guard Armory in Phoenix will feature Helga Morrow speaking on "The Montauk Mystery" and Jim Kelly presenting "UFOs: The Best Evidence for Contact," focusing on the "UFO Crash at Las Vegas." The location is 5635 E. McDowell Road. Donations are $5.00 for non-members and $3.00 for members.

Featured Articles and Reports

CIA Report on UFO Cover-Up

An article by Robert Scott Martin, based on a CIA internal report titled "CIA's Role in the Study of UFOs, 1947-90," reveals the agency's historical efforts to "correct" public opinion about UFOs and suppress information. Historian Gerald K. Haines documented the CIA's deliberate work to suppress reports since the Kenneth Arnold case in 1947. The report suggests that while the agency concluded UFOs were unlikely to be a direct threat, they were concerned about Soviet use of UFOs for psychological warfare or as a cloak for attacks. The CIA's aggressive policy of public non-involvement was driven by fears of mass hysteria and the need to conceal its own interest. The report also notes that despite efforts, "an extraordinary 95 percent of all Americans have at least heard or read something about UFOs, and 57 percent believe they are real."

X-Files Version of History Backed by CIA Report

Michael Smith reports on a secret CIA history of its UFO investigations, suggesting more truth in "The X-Files" than often believed. The report details debates between investigators and skeptical superiors, and how attempts to keep sightings secret fueled beliefs of a government cover-up. The CIA initially dismissed sightings as "midsummer madness" but later considered their potential use by Moscow for mass hysteria or to overload air warning systems.

Astronomers Still Baffled by Space Light

An Associated Press article reports on a mysterious celestial object detected three years prior that continues to baffle scientists. S. George Djorgovski of Caltech noted the object's spectrum does not fit known patterns, leaving its composition and distance uncertain. Researchers hope to analyze its infrared spectrum and potentially use the Hubble Space Telescope.

The Leadership Crisis in Ufology

J. Burkes, MD, discusses the lack of strong leaders in the UFO movement, attributing it to egoism and the "market forces" of the cottage industry. He suggests that the need to appear knowledgeable and "on the cutting edge" leads to personal attacks and infighting. Burkes proposes the creation of a mass movement for disclosure, emphasizing spiritual values and altruism to counter the destructive effects of egoism. He questions whether the involvement in UFO issues is to "serve others" or "have others serve us."

UFO Cases and Sightings

The newsletter includes a "Current UFO Cases and Sightings: Local and Worldwide" section from the National UFO Reporting Center. One report from Golden Valley, Arizona, describes three points of light in a triangular formation moving at high speed. Another report from near Phoenix details a similar sighting during a meteor shower. A report from Meridian, Idaho, describes a satellite-like object making erratic course changes.

Media Watch

A "Media Watch" section lists recent and upcoming TV and radio programs related to UFOs, including "X-Files," "After Midnight," and "Roswell." It also provides contact information for submitting UFO-related media program information.

Book Sale and Membership Information

Details are provided for a "September Book Sale and MEGA Raffle" with two prize packages. The newsletter also promotes a "Family membership subscription rate" of $25.00 per year and lists individual rates. Information on ordering MUFON Membership Badges is also included.

New Television Series: Roswell

A preview of the new TV series "Roswell" is included, describing its premise about teen romance involving aliens from a 1947 spaceship crash. The article notes its connection to "The X-Files" and "My So-Called Life."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the collection and analysis of UFO data, encourages member participation in meetings and events, and highlights the ongoing efforts to uncover information about UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the historical role of government agencies, particularly the CIA, in managing public perception and information regarding UFOs, suggesting a persistent theme of government secrecy and public distrust. The discussion on the leadership crisis in ufology indicates a concern for the integrity and effectiveness of the movement. The overall stance appears to be one of advocating for transparency and a deeper understanding of the UFO phenomenon, while acknowledging the challenges posed by skepticism, government actions, and internal movement dynamics.