MUFON Massachusetts PIPEline - 1984 10

Magazine Overview

Title: MUFON P.I.P.E. Line
Issue: #2
Date: October, 1984
Publisher: MUFON
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the MUFON P.I.P.E. Line newsletter focuses on UFOlogy-related news, organizational efforts, and editorial commentary.

UFO Subject in the Newspapers

The recent UFO Conference held in Brewster, NY, generated significant media attention. Numerous newspaper clippings from across the country are noted. Of particular interest are two articles published in the "NY Times." The first appeared immediately after the conference, discussing the event and specific UFO sightings in the NY/CT area. The second, published on September 11th, was headlined "MUST WE IDENTIFY UFOs?" and authored by Sydney Schanberg. The article is described as being pro-UFO, which is considered out of character for the "Times." Bob Bletchman, the Connecticut State Director, suggested contacting Schanberg for potential further articles. Contact has been made with Budd Hopkins, who is in NY City and has contacts at the "Times." Hopkins has agreed to approach Schanberg about the possibility of interviewing him on the subject of missing time cases.

UFO Television Documentary Possible

Dr. J. Allen Hynek is reportedly working on plans for a potential UFO documentary for television. While a specific producer was not mentioned, John Fuller is expected to collaborate on the project. The hope is that this documentary will be ready for airing in time for the first National UFO Information Week.

Hynek Enthusiastic About National UFO Information Week

A meeting with Dr. J. Allen Hynek at the NY Conference, followed by a phone conversation, revealed his strong enthusiasm for working with MUFON on the upcoming National UFO Information Week. One proposed project is a public opinion poll on the UFO subject. Hynek also agreed to work towards securing national media coverage for the week. Collaboration with the Center for UFO Studies is seen as a way to increase visibility and effectiveness. Contact has also been made with Tom Deuley regarding the Fund for UFO Research joining the effort.

Editorial

Marge Christensen, the editor, reflects on 1984 as a banner year for ufology. She highlights the inclusion of the UFO subject in an AAAS conference, the Congressional Research Service's revised publication of "The UFO Enigma" which allegedly verifies government withholding of information, and the financial and attendance success of the San Antonio MUFON Symposium. The publication of "Clear Intent" is also noted, with its first two printings selling out. The Center for UFO Studies has received a new research institute in Arizona and has hopes for funding. Christensen also mentions that UFOs themselves seemed more active in the NY/CT area in 1984.

The editorial then shifts to address a perceived lack of participation from approximately two-thirds of the State Directors. Christensen questions the factors contributing to this apathy and seeks solutions. She acknowledges that the work is volunteer and schedules are busy, but stresses the need for active cooperation from more than 15 states to be effective as a national network. Even State Directors with no members are urged to return questionnaires and maintain communication. Two options are presented: to quit or to actively change the situation. Christensen hopes for the latter and requests suggestions, hinting at a potential program where active directors "adopt" inactive ones to foster enthusiasm.

National Fundraising Needed

A discussion at the Corporate Meeting during the San Antonio MUFON UFO Symposium addressed the need for fundraising to support research, equipment, and public information efforts. Efforts to secure corporate funding have been largely unsuccessful. The possibility of approaching wealthy individuals who have had UFO sightings or experiences for contributions is suggested as a potential avenue. The issue also mentions obtaining a catalog from a NY company that offers various mailing lists, including those of scientists, wealthy individuals, and prominent Americans, noting that these lists come with a fee and minimum order requirements.

The need for someone to take charge of the fundraising project is emphasized. Walt Andrus is considering potential candidates. Readers are encouraged to volunteer or recommend someone for this task.

Drive Needed to Increase Number of Contributing Subscribers to Journal

Another area identified for improvement is the significant increase in subscribers to the MUFON Journal. The current number of 1000 subscribers is contrasted with a hypothetical 10,000, which would exponentially increase awareness of the UFO subject and generate more income. The challenge of achieving this increase is acknowledged. Potential methods include placing advertisements in other magazines and encouraging State organizations to place copies of the Journal in public libraries, hoping to spark interest and subscriptions. This project, along with fundraising, is categorized under public relations.

MUFON on "PM Magazine"

On October 18, 1984, the syndicated national TV program "PM Magazine" was scheduled to feature a segment on the work of the Mutual UFO Network. The program was expected to reach 14 to 15 million viewers. The MUFON office was filmed for four hours for the segment.

News Item: CSICOP to hold Skeptical Symposium at Stanford U.

A brief news item notes that CSICOP (Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal) will hold a Skeptical Symposium at Stanford University.

David Brinkley to Speak at Beverly College

Broadcast journalist David Brinkley, host of ABC's "This Week With David Brinkley," is scheduled to be the first speaker in the 1984 Lincoln Forum Lecture Series at Endicott College on October 3rd. His topic will be "Election '84--What Lies Ahead."

Marge Christensen plans to attend this event and present David Brinkley with a package of declassified government documents obtained through the F.O.I.A., a copy of the book "Clear Intent," and information on "The UFO Enigma." Christensen intends to suggest to Brinkley that the UFO subject warrants serious coverage by national television media.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the growing public awareness and media coverage of UFO phenomena, the organizational challenges and efforts within MUFON, and the need for greater engagement from its members and leadership. The editorial stance, as articulated by Marge Christensen, is one of urgency and a call to action, emphasizing the importance of active participation and communication to advance the field of ufology and MUFON's mission. There is a clear push towards professionalizing UFO research and increasing its legitimacy through media engagement and documented evidence.