NEWSLETTER

Magazine Overview

This is the sixth issue of the "NEWSLETTER" published by the Union of Northern Observors in October 1974. The cover prominently features the headline "MEN FROM MARS!!" alongside smaller statements like "LITTLE GREEN MEN ARE HERE" and "THEY WATCH FOR FLYING SAUCERS," suggesting a focus on popular perceptions of UFOs and extraterrestrial visitors. The publication address is listed as 48 Park Drive, Manchester M16 QAH.

Editorial: "Getting the right image"

The editorial addresses the common perception of ufologists as "nutty" or "eccentric," largely due to media portrayal and the presence of such individuals within the field. It argues that while sensational claims (like telepathic communication with Martians) attract media attention, serious, scientific approaches are often ignored. This creates a challenge for genuine UFO research groups, who constantly face insults and skepticism. The editorial stresses the need for UFO groups to prioritize public relations, aiming for a logical and trustworthy image to encourage credible reports. It suggests that groups should emphasize their scientific bases, including computer files and unbiased approaches, and be wary of being led into sensational claims for publicity. MAPIT is cited as an example of a group that refused publicity due to a perceived wrong attitude. The editorial also calls for improved relationships with police, airports, and other bodies that might receive UFO reports, and suggests offering lectures and making publications available in libraries. A call is made for a decent, soberly written joint publication containing facts. The author concludes that while changing the image will be difficult and may mean less personal publicity, it is crucial for the advancement of ufology.

News!! News!!

This section clarifies that the Union of Northern Observors is not a single group but a cooperative of five groups. The newsletter will continue as a forum to demonstrate that these groups are working together and producing better results. A tape scheme is underway to share the views of the groups. The section also provides updates from various local groups:

• British Youth UFO (BYWIG): They are now playing a full part in joint operations, sharing information about worldwide contacts. They are described as potentially becoming the biggest junior UFO organization in the world. Alan Walsh gave a talk at the Star Trek Convention.
• MAPIT: Supervising central record filing systems and transferring nearly 100 new reports. Their computer scheme is operational with a capacity of 1000 reports. They have also been involved in publicity, with a major article in the Manchester Evening News.
• NAPRA: Developing plans for a UFO detector costing around £5 and seeking electronic help to manufacture them for a detector network.
• Scunthorpe UFO: Contributed a large batch of reports and is hoping to operate an Eastern Tape circuit. They have agreed to cooperate with other groups from Yorkshire, Nottingham, and Derby.
• Wirral UFO Society: Has a meeting arranged for October 31 with a talk on UFOs in New Zealand. They are noted as possibly the only group locally doing this type of activity.

The section also mentions the disbandment of the West Pennine Research Group and potential new information from North Lancashire. A reminder is given to groups to submit news of their activities for publicity. A "Stop Press" notes that applications are underway for a joint production on the BBC TV Programme 'Open Door'.

Analysis of the Opinion Poll

This section discusses the results of an opinion poll included in a previous issue of the UNO journal. The response rate was low, and the reasoning behind the questions is attributed to Dave Morley, who is unavailable. Key findings include:

• Origin of UFOs: 75% believed UFOs were probably spacecraft, with 25% certain of it. The Earth was considered a likely source by most respondents.
• Open-mindedness: Only 20% of respondents felt people should be open-minded about UFOs.
• Desired Magazine Content: Respondents overwhelmingly wanted more detail and follow-up on investigations, as well as more local group news and information on lectures.

The author notes that the survey was not a true public opinion poll but rather an 'Ufologists only' one, which could introduce bias. The results are considered useful for guiding future magazine content.

The Men In Black

This article, by Mark Williamson, discusses the phenomenon of "Men in Black" (MIBs), who have reportedly been operating since at least 1953. They are characterized by their black suits, shoes, and hats, and often drive black cars. Their alleged job is to stop ufologists from solving the UFO mystery, either by direct threats, strange phone calls, or by providing information that frightens them. The article mentions suspicions of MIBs being involved in killings or kidnappings. Possible explanations include them being agents from another planet or American secret agents covering up the fact that UFOs are secret weapons. The article notes that MIBs have been reported globally and always speak the local language. An account from Connecticut in 1953 involving Albert Bender and an "International UFO service" is detailed, where three MIBs allegedly visited Bender, warning him about his research. The article concludes that while UNO does not fully accept the reality of MIBs, they do not discount them.

Is the Wave Phenomena Real?

This article investigates whether there is real evidence for a