Northern UFO News - No 77

Magazine Overview

Title: NORTHERN UFOLOGY
Issue: 77
Date: October 1980
Publisher: NUFON (Northern UFO Network)
Cover Headline: UFO'S IN THE PUBLIC EYE

This issue of NORTHERN UFOLOGY delves into the complex relationship between UFO phenomena and the public, exploring how sightings are reported, investigated, and perceived, particularly in relation to media coverage.

Editorial: "Confessions of a frustrated fantasy monger"

The editorial, penned by Jenny Randles, addresses criticisms from prominent UK ufologists who have labeled her a "frustrated fantasy monger" and "myth-maker." Randles defends her approach, asserting that NORTHERN UFOLOGY functions as a free and open forum for discussion. She refutes claims that the magazine's focus on UFOs and psychic phenomena (CE4 events) represents a "nadir" in ufological publication. Randles argues that both physical and psychic aspects are crucial components of the UFO question, and that a willingness to consider all arguments and data is essential for ufologists. She criticizes the tendency to dismiss certain phenomena or to seek only hardware-based explanations, advocating for a balanced approach that acknowledges the potential for both alien intervention and psychological/sociological stimuli.

Randles also touches upon the "Bignall End saga," where she acknowledges that witnesses may have misidentified the moon but defends the investigators' actions. She expresses frustration with the creation of "phantom institutes" and the use of "silly insults." She emphasizes that NUFON's strength lies in its ability to foster a community for diverse UFO groups, promoting discussion and debate.

Key Articles and Features

"UFOS IN THE PUBLIC EYE" by David Sydeserff

David Sydeserff, an organizer of the new Scottish Network and UFOIN member, discusses the critical role of public relations (PR) in ufology. He argues that ufology relies heavily on public relations because the public are the witnesses, the consumers of literature, and the researchers. Sydeserff stresses the importance of science being interested in UFO phenomena, not just for physical evidence but also for psychological and sociological insights. He suggests that investigators should present compelling reports to local scientific figures to illustrate potential projects and gain broader knowledge. He also advises on engaging with the media, recommending approaching local press with appeals for reports and building relationships with journalists. He warns that investigators must be knowledgeable and maintain professionalism to gain public and media confidence, which is crucial for uncovering "hidden reports."

"THE SMILING MEDIA MAN" by John Watson

John Watson, a member of CHRYSIS and UFOIN, provides a cautionary tale about dealing with the media. He highlights the common frustration of hearing about UFO sightings only after they have been reported in the press or on TV. Watson advises groups to be strategic when approaching newspapers, understanding that media outlets prioritize salability. He suggests building relationships with reporters and editors, but warns against over-reliance on the media. He recounts negative experiences with television networks, where interviews were heavily edited, information was misrepresented, and the group received no credit. Watson cautions against the "smiling media man," urging investigators to be wary of promises and to ensure they understand the final product of any media engagement.

"TO ADVERTISE OR EDUCATE?" by Kevin McClure

Kevin McClure, a UFOIN member and EMPRA official, questions whether publicity efforts should focus on UFOs themselves or on the investigators. He argues that for most people, ufology is a temporary concern, quickly forgotten. McClure suggests that a more difficult but potentially more advantageous approach is to communicate the complex nature of the UFO problem and encourage broader public appreciation. He believes this could lead to more direct public involvement in research, providing a wider range of material. McClure acknowledges that current efforts have likely focused more on advertising the existence of UFO groups and facilitating reports, but suggests that improving organization and quality is necessary.

"THE COMMON PLACE PHENOMENON" by Mark A Tyrrell

Mark Tyrrell, secretary of FUFOR and editor of UFO INSIGHT, examines the impact of media and consumerism on the UFO phenomenon. He notes that while publicity can generate reports, FUFOR found this not to be the case in 1979. Tyrrell suggests that the increasing popularity of science fiction films might be fulfilling the public's imagination, negating interest in real UFO mysteries. He also points to the assimilation of UFO imagery into consumer goods, questioning if UFOs are becoming commonplace to the point of losing their mystery. Tyrrell believes that "hidden reports" will not emerge through constant press publicity but rather by removing the "ridicule barrier" and fostering an atmosphere of seriousness and professionalism among investigators.

"GRADUALLY, BUT QUICKLY, IT MOVED UP" by Paul Screeton

Paul Screeton, a writer on earth mysteries, shares his experiences with media coverage, particularly concerning a sighting by Helen Ferguson. He contrasts the sensational and often trivialized media captions accompanying her photo with the actual sighting details. Screeton criticizes the lack of intellectual journalism and the "insidious way the popular press impresses a trivial and mocking attitude towards ufology." He recounts how the HULL DAILY MAIL deputy editor refused a retrospective article on UFO sightings, stating the editor "doesn't like flying saucers." Screeton concludes that the quality of UFO reports in the media varies greatly depending on the editor's views, and that while some reporters may be sympathetic, others may be overly skeptical or prone to debunking.

News Round-Up

This section provides brief updates on UFO-related activities:

• EMPRA Launch: The formation of EMPRA (East Midlands Phenomena Research Association) through the merger of UAFROL and CUFORO is announced.
• UFOSIS Status: The Birmingham group UFOSIS is reported to be reorganizing and not folded.
• Scottish UFO Network: A new regular bulletin for investigators has been produced.
• Wantage Monster Sightings: Bob Webb is conducting a study of these sightings and seeks information.
• Close Encounters of the Third Kind: Information on special edition playdates is provided.
• New Zealand Movie: A potential UK screening of a New Zealand UFO film is mentioned.
• Birmingham Debate: A debate on "Do UFOs exist?" featuring Peter Warrington and Ian Ridpath is scheduled for November 8th.

Investigations

This section logs recent UFO sightings:

• August 14, 1980: Two fishermen in Haslingden, Lancs, reported red lights in the water.
• August 15, 1980: An elderly woman in Haslingden, Lancs, saw a circle of 12 red lights moving away.
• August 30, 1980: Multiple witnesses in Dumfries, Scotland, observed red and yellow lights over hills.
• September 5, 1980: A couple in Bidston, Wirral, saw three pulsating white lights near a moving aircraft.

Competition

A competition is announced for the January 1981 issue, asking contributors to answer "UFOs exist because?" with a maximum of three reasons or pieces of evidence. The deadline is December 1st.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue strongly emphasizes the challenges and complexities of ufological public relations and media engagement. The editorial stance is one of advocating for open-mindedness, the inclusion of diverse perspectives (physical and psychic), and a critical approach to media representation. There's a clear warning against sensationalism and a call for professionalism among investigators to build credibility. The magazine positions itself as a platform for reasoned debate, encouraging a balanced view of the UFO phenomenon rather than succumbing to simplistic explanations or media manipulation.

This issue of NORTHERN EARTH MYSTERIES, dated May 1980, delves into the complexities of UFO reporting and the role of media in shaping public perception. The content includes discussions on journalistic practices, the impact of publicity on ufologists, and specific UFO case reports.

Articles and Content

The 'Nicki Debuse Syndrome'

The issue begins by addressing the "Nicki Debuse Syndrome," a term coined to describe the tendency towards sloppy and inaccurate reporting of UFO phenomena in the media. The author highlights how a mysterious red flare reported by the NORTHERN ECHO was sensationalized with the headline "UFO- or 'thirsty spacemen' Spotted." This syndrome is characterized by errors in caption writing, sub-editorial incompetence, and a general disregard for accuracy, as exemplified by the inconsistent naming of a model, Nicki Debuse, across different publications. The article suggests that this sloppiness stems from a belief that errors will be corrected later or go unnoticed by the public.

"Saucers for Consumption" by Jenny Randles

Jenny Randles contributes an article titled "Saucers for Consumption," which focuses on media relations and the impact of publicity on ufology. Randles expresses her initial impression of the issue's range of views on media relations, a topic she did not expect to be so prominent. She admits to having made errors in judgment in the past, being too quick to go to print or appear on television, often swayed by assurances that the story would be handled professionally. Randles points out the "fallacy of our desire for publicity," as highlighted by Mark Tyrrell's paper and Paul Screeton's "inside view."

Randles questions whether many individuals are involved in ufology primarily for the "kicks" of getting their names in the papers or gaining attention, rather than for the genuine pursuit of solving the mystery. She suggests this can contribute to the "drop out" rate in ufology, where the aim becomes personal notability rather than understanding UFOs.

She shares her personal experience of consciously avoiding publicity for over a year, finding that it has improved her well-being. She no longer worries about being quoted correctly or how she appears for photographs. Randles seriously doubts the necessity of any publicity for UFOs, arguing that saucers are often presented in a way that is better consumed from the "shaddows."

Randles commends alternative methods of reaching the public, such as those proposed by David Sydeserff and John Watson, noting that while these methods might limit the number of reports received, MUFORA has found that using other sources effectively supplements their supply and often yields more evidential reports than the "media generated ruffage."

She provocatively asks if it would be harmful to receive no new UFO reports for a while, suggesting that this might shift the focus of true ufologists from chasing immediate sightings to contemplating past close encounters, potentially leading to a deeper understanding of the subject.

Key Incidents and Reports

The issue references a specific incident: an "Aerial pyramid hovered over High Throston" in Screeton, reported by THE MAIL on May 22, 1980. This is presented as an example of a UFO report that might be subject to the "Nicki Debuse Syndrome" if handled by the media without proper care.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of how UFO phenomena are reported and perceived by the public, largely through the lens of media practices. There is a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards sensationalism and a call for greater accuracy and depth in reporting. The editorial stance, particularly evident in Jenny Randles' article, leans towards a more cautious and evidence-based approach to ufology, suggesting that excessive reliance on mainstream media and the pursuit of publicity can be detrimental to the field's credibility and progress. The issue advocates for a more discerning approach to information and a potential shift in focus from immediate sightings to a deeper analysis of existing data.