Mass. MUFON NEWS LETTER

Magazine Overview

Title: Mass. MUFON NEWS LETTER
Issue: #7
Date: March, 1983
Publisher: MUFON Massachusetts
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the Mass. MUFON Newsletter provides updates on various activities and initiatives within the Massachusetts chapter of MUFON.

UFO Documentary

The newsletter reports on the possibility of a PBS producing a UFO documentary that aims to serve as a rebuttal to previous programs, offering an unbiased and objective presentation. The producer has contacted Barry Greenwood for assistance with the UFO portion of the program and has requested access to documents and information. Dr. J. Allen Hynek is expected to appear on the documentary. The program proposal has been accepted by PBS and is awaiting sponsorship.

UFO Literature for Sale

Barry Greenwood has announced that he has a large assortment of UFO literature available for sale to interested individuals. This collection includes books, periodicals, and other items, comprising duplicates from his personal collection. Those interested are advised to contact Barry to arrange an appointment to view the materials.

Nationwide Publicity

A UPI news release, initially scheduled for February 19th, was released on March 1st by Walt Andrus. The newsletter expresses hope that this will generate nationwide publicity.

Peter Gersten, Larry Fawcett on ABC NEWS

It is reported that Larry Fawcett and Peter Gersten are scheduled to appear on ABC News in March at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the Kirtland documents. A specific date has not yet been provided.

$ Chipping in for Clippings $

Fred Chaffee, Mass. MUFON Treasurer, reports that the clipping service has received monthly checks from four individuals. Due to the significant monthly cost of maintaining this service, which benefits all members, the newsletter appeals for contributions to share the financial burden. Checks made payable to Mass. MUFON are tax-deductible.

The Hazards of Orbital Flight

An article in TIME magazine on February 28, 1983, titled "The Hazards of Orbital Flight," is highlighted. Readers are encouraged to read it for potential explanations of descriptions of "small entities with large heads."

New Refreshments Chairperson

Joan Nyman has volunteered to serve as the new Refreshments Chairperson. She will be contacting members alphabetically to help provide refreshments for meetings and assist with kitchen duties. Members are asked to cooperate fully when contacted by Joan.

New Policies for Members, Investigators

In response to an influx of less serious membership applications, the State Director, State Section Directors, and Special Advisor Joe Santangelo have compiled a new policy regarding membership requirements and investigator qualifications. These policies are intended to be fair and maintain the professional caliber and credibility of the Mass. MUFON organization. Copies will be distributed and explained at the March meeting.

Get Well Soon

Best wishes are extended to MUFON member Mrs. Nancy Brown, who has been hospitalized for serious surgery. Her address is provided for those who wish to send a Get Well card: 7 Friend St., Manchester, Ma. 01944.

Current Cases on New Computer File

Following a suggestion by David Webb, a computer file is being created to manage all cases assigned to investigators since January 1, 1983. This system will allow for real-time tracking of the number of cases under investigation, their types, individual investigator workloads, and the number of people requiring assistance. Print-outs of these cases will be available at each meeting.

Computer File of Resources Proposed

Bob Gildea and Joe Santangelo proposed a directory format for a computer file to catalog the extensive resources available in Barry Greenwood's "mini UFO Smithsonian Institution." This file would include books, reports, audio and video tapes, movies, slides, and other materials, and would be helpful in locating specific items. The project is planned for the summer, after Barry completes his book. Assistance is sought from members, particularly those with computer programming backgrounds, to help with the indexing and cataloging.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter reflects MUFON's ongoing efforts to document and investigate UFO phenomena, disseminate information through various media (documentaries, literature, news appearances), and maintain organizational standards through new policies. There is a clear emphasis on member participation, both in providing practical support (refreshments, clipping service) and in contributing to data management (case files, resource directories). The editorial stance appears to be one of proactive engagement with the UFO subject, aiming for credible research and public awareness.