MUFON Massachusetts - Newsletter - 37 - 1986 12

Magazine Overview

This is the December 1986 issue, number 37, of the MUFON NEWSLETTER, published by MUTUAL UFO NETWORK, INC. The newsletter covers various UFO-related activities, presentations, research updates, and book reviews.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire Presentation

On November 13, 1986, approximately 60 people attended a two-hour slide presentation at the Portsmouth, New Hampshire Public Library. The presentation was given by New Hampshire State Director Pete Geremia and covered a range of topics including:

• Foul weather UFO
• The Wakefield UFO (melted pond)
• Madbury UFO
• Rochester IFO (UFO case reopened)
• UFO organizations
• Investigator equipment
• IFO makers
• Photos of merit
• Dangerous UFOs
• New Hampshire update

Following the presentation, there was a question and answer session. Mass MUFON sold symposium proceedings, investigator manuals, and government secrecy bumper stickers. The event also resulted in new members and casework for both Massachusetts and New Hampshire MUFON.

News from Connecticut

CUFOS investigator Philip Imbrogno reported that the book "Night Siege," concerning the Hudson Valley UFO mystery, was scheduled for release in the fall of 1987. Sightings over the Indian Point nuclear reactor have been confirmed. Imbrogno is engaged in a battle for documents related to the case. The Brewster Video was enhanced by the Jet Propulsion Lab, and Dr. Al Hibbs could find no explanation for the lights. The book "Night Siege" will be authored by Dr. J. Allan Hynek, Phil Imbrogno, and Bob Pratt. Allen Hynek's last case involved him writing two chapters and co-authoring two others with Phil Imbrogno, and providing material throughout the book.

Interesting Development

Middlesex county section director Steve Firmani is working to establish a UFO reporting topic within the Digital Equipment Corporation, where he is employed. This system, utilizing conferences and topics, would allow employees to report UFO sightings. The advantage is that it would be easier for employees to report to peers, and others within the corporation would become aware of such reports. Firmani also has access to conferences on Meteorology and Astronomy.

New Book

A new book titled "Extraterrestrials Among Us" by George C. Andrews, published by Llewellyn Publishers, is available for $11.45 plus postage. The 300-page book includes a photo section, information on government secrecy, ancient medieval art detailing unknown objects, and strange suicides.

News from Woodside Planetarium and Observatory

Ray Fowler, MUFON Director for Investigations, is developing two courses on UFOs: one for children and one for adults. The adult course includes six lessons and a field trip to the Planetarium, featuring a UFO presentation and telescope viewing. The lessons cover topics such as "Introduction to UFOs," "UFO Case Studies," "UFO Abduction Cases," "UFO Investigation," "UFOs and the Government," and "Pre-Modern or Ancient UFO Sightings." Fowler is scheduled to teach courses at North Shore Community College, Endicott Junior College, and Northern Essex College, with plans to teach the adult course at North Shore Community College and Salem State College.

Washington, D.C. Update

The FUND for UFO research is hosting the 1987 International MUFON Symposium in Washington, D.C., from June 26-28, 1987. The symposium aims to be international, inviting speakers from about a dozen different countries. Invitations have been sent to ufologists in the USA, Soviet Union, England, Canada, Australia, and China. The FUND will cover expenses for speakers in Washington, D.C. Ufologists from England, Italy, France, Canada, India, China, and the U.S. have accepted. The names of confirmed speakers will be announced in the next newsletter. Short, contributed papers will also be solicited and presented. Washington, D.C. is promoted as a vacation destination for families.

Seasons Greetings

The next MUFON meeting is scheduled for January 17, 1987, the third Saturday in January. Members are asked to send their dues to Mass. MUFON, 43 Harrison Street, Reading, MA 01867.

The UFO Phenomenon. So I'm Apathetic. Who Cares?

This editorial by Marge Christensen addresses the issue of apathy within the UFO field. Christensen notes that many competent investigators express frustration with government secrecy, media disinterest, and the sensationalism of tabloids. However, she argues that significant progress is being made in UFO research due to the wealth of information gathered by researchers like Budd Hopkins, Richard Haines, and others. The patterns and similarities in cases from around the globe are becoming increasingly convincing. The work of organizations like CAUS in obtaining official data and eyewitness testimony is also highlighted. Christensen emphasizes that the pieces of the UFO puzzle are falling into place, leading to new avenues of research and potential answers. She criticizes the apathy of some ufologists, stating that it exacerbates the shortage of manpower and funding. The editorial stresses that the UFO phenomenon will impact human life on Earth and cannot be ignored. It calls for continued research and encourages those who feel apathetic to reconsider their stance, emphasizing that involvement stems from a concern for humanity and civilization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes MUFON's activities, including presentations, symposiums, and membership drives. There is a strong emphasis on research, investigation, and the collection of data related to UFO sightings. The editorial stance, as expressed in Marge Christensen's piece, is one of urgency and dedication to understanding the UFO phenomenon, advocating for continued effort despite challenges and discouraging apathy within the field. The publication also highlights new books and resources for UFO enthusiasts.