MUFON NEWSLETTER

Magazine Overview

Title: MUFON NEWSLETTER
Issue: #10
Date: June, 1983
Publisher: MUFON Massachusetts
Country: USA

This issue of the MUFON Newsletter from Massachusetts covers several key topics relevant to UFOlogy in the early 1980s, including the burgeoning field of UFO documentaries, preparations for the MUFON International Symposium, advancements in data organization through computers, a new book release, and historical sighting reports.

UFO Documentary?

The lead article on the cover speculates that 1984 may become "The Year of the UFO Documentary." It mentions that Larry Fawcett is planning a 6-part UFO documentary, and Linda Howe is involved in a project concerning 1975 UFO overflights of U.S. military bases. There is also a rumor of a Pentagon-produced UFO documentary. The article highlights an interaction with television producer Arnold Shapiro, who is considering a one-hour program on abduction cases. Shapiro, known for his acclaimed documentaries like "Scared Straight," interviewed MUFON members Dave Webb and Marge Christensen in Boston. He was impressed by their credibility but sought proof of UFO abductions, which the MUFON members could not provide. A further meeting is scheduled in Pasadena during the Symposium to discuss potential developments.

MUFON UFO Symposium

This section details the selection of Massachusetts delegates for the 1983 MUFON International Symposium, scheduled for July 1-3 in Pasadena, California. The selected delegates are Mrs. Marge Christensen (State Director), Mr. David Christensen, Mr. Joseph Santangelo (former State Director and Amateur Radio Director), Mrs. Diana Santangelo, and Mrs. Linda Seal (Essex County Section Director). These delegates are expected to present a report on the Symposium proceedings at the July meeting.

COMPUTER

A computer discussion was held prior to the May meeting, where it was decided to create two computer files for the Massachusetts MUFON organization. The first file will catalog the resources available in the historian's archives, such as books, periodicals, tapes, and documents, without going into deep detail about their contents. The second file will list all Massachusetts UFO cases on file, allowing them to be sorted by various criteria. Joe Santangelo and Bob Gildea are leading this initiative.

NEW BOOK

The "NEW BOOK" section announces the upcoming publication of "CLEAR INTENT" by Barry Greenwood and Larry Fawcett, slated for release in the spring of 1984. The book is described as a skillful documentation of the U.S. government's coverup of the UFO situation, written in an accessible style. It promises a diverse presentation of topics, including evidence, witness testimony, military theses, historical data, and comments from government and military officials. A bonus feature will be photographs of UFOs and cattle mutilations. Mass. MUFON congratulates its historian, Barry Greenwood, on this achievement.

UFO HOTLINE

The Mass. MUFON Telephone HOTLINE (617-944-0686) has been active with inquiries from university students in the Boston area working on UFO research papers. During the Symposium week, the HOTLINE will be used to maintain contact between Marge Christensen and Jne Santangelo in Pasadena and the State Section Directors not attending. Members are reminded to use the HOTLINE for up-to-date meeting information, especially during uncertain weather conditions.

UFO EVIDENCE?

This section presents an account of a daytime sighting in England in 1867, sent by solar physicist Dr. Jack Eddy to Joan Thompson. The sighting, described as "AN EXTRAORDINARY PHENOMENON," was witnessed by James E. Beveridge near a mill. He observed "numberless black discs in groups and scattered" passing rapidly through the air, appearing like large cannon shot when in front of the sun. Several groups disappeared suddenly, leaving "puffs of greyish brown vapour." Dr. Eddy is seeking information on whether such events are common in UFO experiences. Barry Greenwood has located similar accounts, including one from Basel, Switzerland, in 1566, which described numerous large black spheres racing toward the sun, some engaging in apparent combat, and turning fiery red before vanishing. Readers with information on such sightings are encouraged to contact Barry Greenwood.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes MUFON's activities, including its symposium, hotline, and archival efforts. There is a clear focus on documenting UFO phenomena, investigating government involvement, and sharing both contemporary and historical accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry and data collection, encouraging member participation and the pursuit of evidence, while also acknowledging the challenges in proving certain aspects of the phenomenon, such as UFO abductions. The inclusion of a new book on government coverups and historical sightings indicates a commitment to providing a comprehensive overview of UFO research.