Intern Avis For NUFOC - 1978 no 05

Magazine Overview

This document is the internal newsletter, 'INTERN avis for NUFOC', from the Norsk UFO Center, issue number 5, dated June 3, 1978. It is the second volume of the publication. The cover features the NUFOC logo and a graphic representation of various unidentified flying objects. The price for the annual subscription was kr.45,-.

Editorial Stance and Disclaimer

A disclaimer on page 2 states that Norsk UFO Center cannot be held responsible for the principles and opinions expressed in the internal newsletter. All contributions are published at the sender's own risk and do not necessarily reflect NUFOC's views.

Norsk UFO Forum and Rapportnytt

The newsletter provides contact and subscription information for two of NUFOC's official periodicals: 'Norsk UFO Forum' and 'Rapportnytt'. Both are published five times a year with a subscription price of kr.30,- per year. K. Stenødegård is listed as the editor for 'Norsk UFO Forum', and Finn W. Kalvik for 'Rapportnytt'.

Norsk UFO Centers Departments

• An extensive address list is provided for the various departments of Norsk UFO Center, including:
• Central Administration (K. Stenødegård, Trondheim)
• NUFOC Vestlandet (Finn W. Kalvik, Bergen)
• NUFOC Østlandet (Elbjørg Fjeldberg, Lillestrøm)
• NUFOC Sørlandet (Alf Thommassen, Arendal)
• NUFOC Nord (Morten Harry Olsen, Narvik)
• Utrykningsseksjon (A) (Arne Shevik, Moss)
• Utrykningsseksjon marin/land (B) (Odd Gunnar Røed, Tønsberg)
• Utrykningsseksjon (C) (Dag Heim, Hønefoss)
• Forskningsseksjonen (Drammen)
• Rapportsentral (Egon Nielsen, Bergen)

Nordic UFO Meeting in Tønsberg 1978

A significant portion of the newsletter is dedicated to a report on the Nordic UFO meeting held in Tønsberg during Pentecost weekend. The meeting was organized by NUFOC Øst's Tønsberg section and is described as having exceeded all expectations in its planning and execution.

The Meeting's Success and Attendance

The report emphasizes the well-organized and insightful framework of the gathering, which contributed to its highly successful outcome. Representatives from all Nordic countries except Finland were present. While some expected individuals from NUFOC were missed, the attendance was considered good.

Program and Discussions

Odd Gunnar Røed opened the program, welcoming attendees and outlining the practical arrangements. The discussions covered various aspects of UFO research and organization.

#### "Do you believe in UFOs?"

K. Stenødegård initiated a discussion on the classic question of belief in UFOs, highlighting the need for a clear and rational approach to the subject. He stressed the importance of defining terms to avoid irrationality in the UFO debate.

#### Fruitful Debate and URD's Definition

Finn W. Kalvik chaired a discussion on the action program. Thorvald Berthelsen of UFO-Sverige advocated for a cautious approach to Nordic cooperation to avoid overly ambitious and cumbersome administration. Bjarne Håkansson of project URD presented a concise argument for the necessity of a clear and unambiguous definition of the term UFO. He stated that clear definitions are crucial for meaningful discussions and that communication with scientists requires a language they can understand. URD's definition of a UFO was presented as: "A reported phenomenon (apparently of intelligent origin) that has stayed in the air and/or on the ground, and which after thorough investigation cannot be identified as caused by hitherto known phenomena."

#### Methodological Approaches

Håkansson further elaborated that many use the term UFO loosely, often equating it with a spaceship. He stressed the need for a scientific methodology to identify the core of unexplained cases. All material should be examined without prior rejection, distinguishing between UFO and general phenomenon reports. John La Fontaine from FUFOS presented criteria for handling report material, and Steen Landsy, leader of FUFOS, proposed a Nordic central body to receive all UFO reports for later evaluation.

#### Practical Questions and Cooperation

Discussions also focused on practical aspects of collaboration. Thorvald Berthelsen suggested a common Nordic service organ for disseminating news. Landsy and Stenødegård favored a Nordic data center to receive all material. Questions were raised about handling Nordic versus global material and the extent of contact with the world outside Norden.

Working Groups and Outcomes

Following the discussions, working groups were formed, with one representative from each organization. These groups were tasked with addressing technical issues and reaching clear conclusions.

The working group participants included representatives from UFO-Sverige, SUFOI, GICOFF, FUFOS, URD, FI, and NUFOC. The protocol was kept by Asbjørg Kojen of NUFOC.

Preliminary Results of Working Groups:

1. A Nordic exchange publication will be established.
2. Willy Wegner of Dansk UFO Center will be asked to edit this publication.
3. NUFOC will develop statutes and regulations for the association.
4. All organizations will compile a list of their contacts outside Norden.
5. Wegner will receive these lists and compile a consolidated overview for all organizations.
6. Organizations will send their material translated into English to Wegner for editing the exchange publication.
7. The publication will be sent out quarterly.
8. A cash register and accounting system will be set up with Wegner.
9. The association will have a board composed of the leaders of the collaborating organizations.

It was noted that Willy Wegner was unable to attend the congress but was expected to take on these tasks due to his capabilities and interests.

Nordic UFO Groups and Newsletter

After many proposals, the Nordic collaborative organization was named 'NORDIC UFO GROUPS', and the newsletter was to be titled 'NORDIC NEWSLETTER'. A press release about these decisions was drafted and printed.

Press and NRK Coverage

NUFOC had invited the press to a conference following the congress, believing such a significant event deserved media attention. However, coverage was limited, with only Tønsberg Blad, Drammens Tidende, and Buskerud Blad attending. The lack of broader media interest was noted as a recurring Norwegian phenomenon. The timing of the press conference was considered unfortunate for most journalists.

Witness Protection

Alf Thommassen raised a crucial point: the statutes of NUG should include a clause for the consideration of witnesses in UFO cases, protecting them from ridicule. This proposal was strongly supported.

Statutes for Nordic UFO Groups (NUG)

• The issue includes the proposed statutes for NORDIC UFO GROUPS (NUG), dated May 31, 1978. Key points include:
• It is an ideal collaborative organization for groups and individuals in Nordic countries.
• It operates on recognized scientific principles and requires a common, clear definition of UFO.
• Its main purpose is to increase knowledge about UFO phenomena through registration of global material, distribution to member groups, and providing material to partners outside Norden.
• It aims to process and disseminate information according to scientific principles and to inform the public.
• A board composed of leaders from all affiliated groups will govern the organization, with decisions requiring a 2/3 majority.
• Financing will come from contributions from groups and individuals.
• No individual will be held financially responsible for the organization's actions.
• Procedures for handling disagreements and disputes are outlined.
• The organization will meet at least once a year for discussions and planning.
• All members must adhere to the board's regulations, with violations potentially leading to exclusion.

New Department: NUFOC Nord-Norge

As the fourth and final department, Norsk UFO Center Nord-Norge has been established in Narvik, with Morten Harry Olsen as its leader. Olsen has made significant contributions in a short time, including an important translation project for NUFOC: an American UFO album requested by the Oslo-based publisher 'SEMIC'. The publisher has also suggested further collaboration.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organization and professionalization of UFO research in the Nordic countries. There is a strong emphasis on collaboration, establishing clear definitions, systematic data collection, and dissemination of information. The newsletter reflects a proactive stance in promoting UFO research and fostering a unified approach among Nordic organizations. The editorial stance is one of promoting scientific inquiry and cooperation within the field.

This document appears to be an issue of a Norwegian UFO publication, likely a newsletter or magazine, with the primary focus on "NYE SEKSJONER" (New Sections). The issue date is indicated as "lørdag 2.juni" (Saturday, June 2nd), and it is associated with the Norsk UFO Center (NUFOC).

New Sections Established

Stavanger, Norway

Fred Pallesen has been formally appointed as the section leader in Stavanger. This new section, falling under the "VEST" (West) department, is expected to have a significant role due to its coverage of the large city of Stavanger and its specialized task of monitoring the oil drilling platforms in the North Sea. Pallesen has already been active in this area, distributing posters to the rigs. The article notes that the idea to contact oil rigs was suggested by UFO Sverige in Sundsvall in May of the previous year, and contact has now been established.

Central Administration (Sweden)

It is announced that SA (likely referring to a Swedish UFO organization) has established a new field research section under the leadership of Arne Karlsen, formerly the head of the global section at Trondheim UFO Forening. This section emphasizes thorough training for its members and aims for strong development in the future. The address for the central administration is provided as Norsk UFO Center, Sentraladministrasjonen, Postboks 6, 7082 Kattem.

Field Researcher in Oppdal

Jostein Aspen, a field researcher for the section, resides in Oppdal. There is a hope that NUFOC Midt-Norge and Øst (Central Norway and East) can be connected in the future for field research in border areas.

News Item: Whisky Firm's Prize

A news item from "VG" on Saturday, June 2nd, reports from London that a Scottish whisky firm has offered one million pounds (10 million kroner) to anyone who can provide proof that beings from other planets can travel to Earth. The firm specifically requires evidence of the "transport vehicle" used by these extraterrestrial visitors. The company's director is quoted as stating that this is not a joke.

Important Events in Sweden This Summer

"Stor UFO-utstilling hele sommeren i Köping"

From mid-June through July and into August, a large UFO and space research exhibition is being held daily in Köping, Sweden. It is aimed at UFO enthusiasts from all of Scandinavia. The exhibition includes a 5.5-meter diameter, 250 kg UFO model, and will screen UFO-Sverige's films multiple times a day, along with unique materials.

"UFO NYKØPING inviterer til SVENSK UFO 78"

From July 9th to 14th, Nyköping will host "SVENSK UFO 78" at Folkets Hus. This event spans a full week of activities, including lectures and film screenings, targeting both ufologists and the general public. The program includes daily screenings of UFO-Sverige's films at 4:00 PM, and lectures at 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM. Several speakers are listed, including Reinhold Carleby, Lehel Repitis, Anders Gernant (Member of Parliament), Henry Svensson, Sven Schalin, Anders Liljegren, Jan Fjellander, Kolbjørn Stenødegård, Carl-Axel Jonzon, Thorvald Berthelsen, Carl-Anton Mattson, and Per Fork.

Admission is 10 SEK for a single day and 40 SEK for a weekly pass. Camping and tent sites are available near the sea. A detailed program can be requested by sending a name and address to UFO-Nyköping, G.Bergsgatan 17, 611 00 Nyköping, SWEDEN (requests should be made by the end of June).

NUFOC urges members to pay attention to these events as they represent a unique opportunity to gather.

Nordic Meeting Follow-up

Following a Nordic meeting in Tønsberg, several matters need to be discussed promptly. Nordic UFO Groups aims to meet again by the end of the current year to establish the organization. The events in Köping and Nyköping are seen as excellent meeting points for those who can attend. The specific period of interest for the NUFOC SA delegation is July 9th-14th, partly in Nyköping.

Members interested in attending are asked to contact the internal newsletter via Terje Hansen to arrange carpooling. The hope is for strong participation from Norway.

CE 3

"Close Encounters of the Third Kind" Soundtrack

The film music for "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," composed by John Williams, is now available on LP in music stores, released by Arista Records. This is noted as something for those interested in this type of music.

Emblem Design

Members are reminded that suggestions for the NUFOC emblem are needed for the National Meeting, which is planned for late August. To keep costs down, the emblem should ideally have only 2-3 colors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue focuses on organizational developments within the UFO community, particularly the establishment of new sections and the coordination of efforts in Norway and Sweden. It highlights upcoming public events like exhibitions and conferences, encouraging participation. The inclusion of a news item about a substantial prize for proof of alien visitation underscores the ongoing public interest in the topic. The editorial stance appears to be one of active promotion and organization within the UFO field, encouraging member engagement and information sharing.