MUFON Massachusetts PIPEline - 1986 09

Magazine Overview

Title: P.I.P.E. LINE
Issue: #21
Date: September, 1986
Publisher: MUFON

This issue of MUFON's P.I.P.E. LINE delves into various aspects of UFOlogy, focusing on terminology, media engagement, research promotion, and organizational activities. The cover story, "A Rose By Any Other Name," critically examines the implications of the term "UFO" and how the categorization of UFO-related documents might obscure their true nature, suggesting that government agencies may be withholding information by filing it under unrelated headings like "transportation."

Key Articles and Sections

A Rose By Any Other Name

The lead article argues that the term "UFO" is too general and can be a barrier to the subject's legitimacy. It highlights how the common association of UFOs with alien spacecraft makes some people avoid the topic altogether. The author suggests that the ambiguity of the term and the reluctance of some to confront the subject contribute to its "benign neglect." A practical implication discussed is the challenge for researchers filing FOIA requests, as documents might be classified under different, non-obvious headings.

Proposal for Hynek Successor

Bob Bletchman proposes that the UFOlogy community should collectively nominate and endorse a single prominent UFOlogist to act as a spokesperson. This unified approach, supported by a joint letter from major UFO organizations, would provide a consistent point of contact for the media when they seek expert opinions on UFO-related matters.

Media Policy Sent to MUFON Board of Directors

A new media policy for handling public information, authored by Marge Christensen, Walt Webb, Jim Melesciuc, Barry Greenwood, and Ray Fowler, has been submitted to the MUFON Board of Directors for approval. Once approved, this policy will be published in the MUFON Journal and will become official MUFON policy.

Library Project

Richard Hall has initiated a project to encourage public, college, and university libraries to subscribe to the MUFON Journal. He is drafting letters to send to librarians and is gathering lists of major libraries. The project aims to increase the visibility and accessibility of MUFON's research and publications.

Information Corner

This section contains several short updates:

• Science Digest Contest: Walt Andrus and Jim McCampbell have protested a "most convincing but fraudulent UFO photograph" contest run by Science Digest, sending letters of complaint to the Hearst Corporation.
• MUFON Award: The award for the most outstanding contribution to UFOlogy for the 1986-1987 calendar year will be presented at the 1987 symposium. Budd Hopkins was the 1986 recipient. Nominations are open to anyone, regardless of affiliation or nation, and must be submitted to Walt Andrus by April 1, 1987.
• Commemorative Symposium Edition: John Schuessler is investigating the feasibility of publishing a special commemorative edition of the Symposium Proceedings, featuring the best papers from past MUFON symposia.
• National Campaign for Congressmen: Richard Hall and Bruce Maccabee are proposing a national campaign to encourage congressmen and senators to attend the 1987 MUFON symposium. Members are asked to volunteer to write sample letters to send to their representatives.

APRO Director Passes Away

The issue reports the passing of Jim Lorenzen, founder and director of the Aerial Phenomena Research Organization (APRO), in Tucson, Arizona. The Mutual UFO Network sent a memorial floral bouquet.

Pennsylvania Scores Big Success During National UFO Information Week

Stan Gordon, Pennsylvania State Director, submitted an enthusiastic report on the state's activities during National UFO Info. Week. The event included numerous media appearances, news releases, and a highly successful display at the Westmoreland Mall. The display attracted many people, leading to the reporting of numerous UFO sightings and cases, including time-lapse cases, humanoid sightings, and multiple color UFO photographs.

Reminder: Write On! P.I.P.E. Committee Members

This section encourages committee members to continue submitting articles for the MUFON Journal, acknowledging contributions from Barry Greenwood, Mildred Biesele, Walt Webb, John Schuessler, Walt Andrus, and others. It stresses the importance of providing high-caliber, informative manuscripts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the professionalization and public perception of UFOlogy. There's a clear emphasis on improving media relations, establishing a more unified voice for the field, and promoting research through publications like the MUFON Journal and symposium proceedings. The editorial stance appears to be one of proactive engagement, aiming to combat misinformation (like the Science Digest contest) and to elevate UFOlogy as a serious area of study. The passing of Jim Lorenzen is noted with respect, highlighting the interconnectedness of different UFO research organizations. The success in Pennsylvania during UFO Information Week serves as a model for other states, encouraging similar outreach efforts.