MUFON Massachusetts PIPEline - 1986 02

Magazine Overview

The P.I.P.E. Line, Issue #17, published in February 1986 by MUFON, is a newsletter focused on internal communications and policy within the organization. The issue addresses the quality of the MUFON Journal, introduces new initiatives, and outlines media guidelines for its members.

Journal Situation Update

This section details a proactive effort to improve the quality of the MUFON Journal. Following a letter from Marge Christensen to Dennis Stacy, the editor, and subsequent correspondence and phone calls, there is a consensus that the Journal needs improvement. Marge had a significant phone conversation with Walt Andrus on January 25th, during which he requested that members of the P.I.P.E. Committee submit articles for regular publication. The article stresses the importance of the Journal as the primary vehicle for public information and urges members to contribute by submitting recent case reports, research, government document releases, or editorial-type articles on subjects they feel strongly about. The author, Marge, emphasizes that complaining is insufficient and that active participation is required. In return for member contributions, Dennis Stacy is asked to ensure meticulous editing and improved layout of the material. The goal is to produce a publication that members can be proud of and that effectively serves the UFO subject.

Distinguished Award for Outstanding Work in the UFO Field

Sherman Larsen, the new director of the Center for UFO Studies, has relayed Dr. J. Allen Hynek's positive feelings about a proposed award for outstanding work in the UFO field. Dr. Hynek believes the idea is excellent but does not wish for the award to be named in his honor. Consequently, the award will be named the 'MUFON AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING WORK IN THE UFO FIELD'. Walt Andrus will arrange for a ballot to be included in the March issue of the MUFON Journal for members to vote for their preferred individual. Walt Andrus will also tabulate the votes and organize the engraving of a plaque for the recipient. The award is slated to be presented at a symposium in Michigan.

Plaque for Dr. Hynek

In recognition of Dr. J. Allen Hynek's lifetime contributions to UFO research and public information, a proposal is made to present him with an engraved plaque at the upcoming symposium in Michigan. If Dr. Hynek cannot accept it personally, arrangements will be made for someone to accept it on his behalf.

Telufonet to be Activated

To coordinate activities for National UFO Information Week in 1986, the TELUFONET will be activated on the weekend of March 1st and 2nd. The purpose of this activation is to remind State Directors to submit reports on their planned activities for the week to Marge. Provisions are made for individuals who find this weekend inconvenient, including Dan Wright, Paul Cerny, Jim Melesciuc, Bob Bletchman, Mildred Biesele, and Walt Andrus, to notify Marge in advance.

Book Review Editor

A request is made for a Book Review Editor to manage book reviews. Manuscripts for these reviews would be sent to Dennis Stacy for final editing. The reviews could cover UFO books as well as other relevant works, such as Carl Sagan's 'Contact' or books on Halley's Comet. Individuals interested in this role are asked to contact Dennis Stacy or Marge.

Draft of Media Policy Statement

This section presents a draft of media policy guidelines intended to build and maintain the credibility of MUFON and the UFO subject. The guidelines are divided into three main sections:

I. Providing Public Information as an Official Representative of MUFON

• Scope: All public information activities, including lectures, presentations, and media appearances, must be limited to the UFO subject to avoid confusing an uninformed public and eroding credibility.
• Accuracy: Providing inaccurate, undocumented, incomplete, or exaggerated information must be avoided.
• Preparation: Speakers must be well-prepared with facts and supporting data, and should admit when they do not know an answer rather than fabricating one. They should be ready to counter misinformation without being defensive.
• Objectivity: When speaking to school or college groups, or teaching UFO classes, speakers must present facts objectively, including pro and con sides, without pushing personal viewpoints.
• Government Documents: When quoting FOIA documents, speakers must state they were obtained via FOIA, quote verbatim, and refrain from reading information into the document that is not present. They must ensure the document is authentic.
• Notification: State Directors must be informed prior to any speaking appearances, and the State Director in the location of an out-of-state radio or television program must also be notified.

II. Dissemination of Case Information to the Public or to the Media

• Witness Confidentiality: The identity of a UFO case witness must remain confidential unless written permission is obtained.
• Data Integrity: Incomplete or unsupported case data should not be released to the media.
• Investigation Completion: A thorough investigation must be completed, and unanimous agreement among investigators and witnesses is required before contacting the media.
• Tabloids: MUFON representatives are strongly advised against having any official dealings with tabloids due to their tendency to be irresponsible and offer remuneration for stories.

III. Personal Gain from UFO Information

• Acceptable Remuneration: Lecture fees from educational or civic organizations and remuneration from reputable publications or periodicals are acceptable.
• Frowned Upon Remuneration: Remuneration from disreputable publications or questionable organizations is discouraged, as it undermines MUFON's credibility.

The statement concludes by outlining potential consequences for failing to abide by these guidelines, including possible revocation of MUFON membership. For inaccurate data published in newspapers or periodicals, MUFON's P.I.P.E. Committee will assign a member to publish a correction. These guidelines are intended to enhance credibility and professionalism, not to be dictatorial.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the professionalization of MUFON's public outreach and internal operations. There is a strong emphasis on improving the quality and content of the MUFON Journal, highlighting the responsibility of members to contribute actively. The establishment of formal awards and the implementation of a strict media policy underscore a commitment to enhancing the organization's credibility and maintaining high standards in reporting and public communication. The editorial stance is one of encouraging active participation, demanding accuracy and professionalism, and safeguarding the integrity of both the organization and the UFO subject matter.