Intern Avis For NUFOC - 1978 no 10

Magazine Overview

This document is an internal newsletter titled "INTERN avis for NUFOC" (Internal notice for NUFOC), issue number 10, dated November 30, 1978, from the Norsk UFO Center (NUFOC). It is written in Norwegian and serves as an internal communication tool for the organization.

Organizational News and Challenges

The "ORGANISASJONSNYTT" (Organizational News) section begins with regret, announcing that field researchers Kjell Christensen and Kåre Elvik are leaving their positions. Dag Heim has also requested to be released from his role as section leader, though he wishes to continue as a regular member. More significantly, department leaders Elbjørg Fjeldberg (OST) and Alf Thommassen (SØR) have expressed concerns about the heavy workload associated with the current system, particularly the "Landsstyret" (National Board). Fru Fjeldberg has resigned as department leader effective January 1, 1979, and Mr. Thommassen has detailed the problems caused by the volume of cases handled by the National Board.

The newsletter reflects on earlier concerns raised at the 1976 national meeting, which feared the system would become too cumbersome. While it initially worked well, the workload has increased, exposing the National Board's limited capacity. Another issue identified is the voting process within the National Board, where department leaders and the organization leader are members. It's noted that department leaders often vote first, which, while democratic, can be time-consuming and requires members to be thoroughly familiar with cases and NUFOC's regulations. The newsletter suggests that if these minimum requirements are not met, the National Board might not function as intended, citing its "inhibiting influence" on the SEMIC project as an example.

The document emphasizes that NUFOC is structured to allow individuals to perform their daily tasks with maximum freedom. However, the current system, particularly the National Board, can be perceived as a bottleneck for those handling day-to-day operations. The newsletter acknowledges that the National Board does have positive aspects, acting as a "safety valve" for members to have their cases reviewed if they disagree with a decision, and also allowing the central administration (SA) to share responsibility for controversial decisions.

Given these observations, the newsletter proposes the need for a new system that better addresses these issues. The original system, where each individual focused on their specific tasks, is considered the most functional. The current situation is described as follows: the majority of NUFOC's daily work is handled by the central administration (SA), which requires sufficient freedom to operate effectively. Simultaneously, there is a desire for an NUFOC body that can uphold the positive aspects of the current National Board while not overly hindering SA's functions.

Proposed Solutions and New Structures

To address these challenges, a proposal is being developed. Within the ØST region, section leaders have been working on establishing a "UTVIKLINGS OG ADMINISTRASJONSSEKSJON" (Development and Administration Section) primarily to relieve SA and department leaders. Odd Gunnar Reed is leading this initiative. This new section would be responsible for:

1. Development work, both initiated internally and assigned.
2. Assisting SA with national-level administration, within a defined scope.
3. Serving as an advisory body (RÅD) between SA and the National Board.

This advisory body would review issues where consensus cannot be reached, providing a recommendation. If parties disagree with the recommendation, the case would be brought before the National Board for final decision. In urgent cases where waiting for the National Board is not feasible, SA would retain the authority to make decisions.

This proposal is expected to significantly reduce the National Board's workload. The newsletter also stresses the importance of limiting the number of cases that go to the National Board. Furthermore, department leaders should be empowered to make decisions within their departments, as per existing rules. The newsletter questions the necessity for department leaders to consult with general members for decisions, suggesting that effective systems for gathering opinions are crucial, especially in areas with many section leaders like ØST.

Another proposal, building on an idea from Fru Fjeldberg, is to create "fylkesleder" (county leader) positions. This would further alleviate the burden on department leaders and improve contact with members nationwide. Initially, current section leaders would serve as county leaders, leveraging their experience. The long-term goal is to find successors for these section leader roles.

For the SA region, a proposal includes establishing a Midt-Norge (Central Norway) department with its own department leader. This region, comprising two counties, could also have two county leaders. This structure aims to provide a more defined work area, leading to greater efficiency.

For NUFOC ØST, the proposed development seems well-suited. Initially, section leaders Smevik, Røed, and Lemb could become county leaders for Østfold, Vestfold, and Buskerud, respectively, starting from the new year. Efforts will be made to find county leaders for the remaining counties in Eastern Norway (Oppland, Hedmark, Telemark, Akershus, and possibly Oclo). This would require the new Development Section to find leaders for their current sections as well.

Similar initiatives are suggested for the VEST and SØR regions. Starting in 1979, department leaders will take on more administrative responsibilities within their departments. The newsletter notes that finding skilled county leaders is a priority, particularly for Sogn og Fjordane, Rogaland, and the Agder counties. Alf Thommassen is specifically asked to look for a capable associate in Kristiansand S.

SEMIC and Internal Newsletter

If the SEMIC project proceeds, it is expected to be a revolution for NUFOC's work. This would necessitate a more substantial internal publication than the current one. The plan is to create an internal journal with a technical standard similar to "UFO Forum" but with fewer pages. This journal would publish content not featured in the new SEMIC publication. It is envisioned to be published six times a year with approximately 15 pages per issue.

County Leaders Wanted!

The newsletter issues a call for individuals residing in Hedmark, Oppland, Telemark, Akershus, Vest-Agder, Rogaland, and Sogn og Fjordane who are interested in becoming county leaders. They are asked to contact NUFOC soon, as the goal is to have these positions filled before the end of the year. The role of a county leader involves overseeing NUFOC's interests within their county, maintaining contact with representatives, and engaging in development work.

SEMIC Project Details

The SEMIC project, if launched, is described as a significant opportunity. It would involve a professional magazine of first-class quality, printed in color, with an initial print run of 15,000 copies. SEMIC would take full responsibility for the technical and financial aspects, and would also handle marketing for both the magazine and Norsk UFO Center, potentially including cinema advertising. NUFOC could apply to SEMIC for financial support for larger investigations, and contributors would be fully compensated for their work used in the publication. Press releases would be distributed via SEMIC, though NUFOC could still send local press releases independently. The project is seen as opening up "enormous perspectives" and would likely lead to more people becoming involved in NUFOC.

NUFOC has everything to gain and nothing to lose from this venture, with a three-month mutual notice period ensuring flexibility. Even if the project were to be discontinued after three months, NUFOC could resume its current publications while benefiting from the extensive advertising reach provided by SEMIC, something they currently lack the resources to achieve with "UFO Forum" and "Rapportnytt."

Financial Matters and Expenses

The "VIKTIG MELDING FRA HOVEDKASSEN" (Important Message from the Head Office) addresses the increasing telephone and postage costs borne by some NUFOC representatives. The Head Office will provide some support for these necessary expenses. Representatives, department leaders, and section leaders are asked to submit estimated expenses for 1979 for phone, postage, and office supplies by the end of the year to finalize the 1979 fee. The Head Office cannot cover expenses for travel, representation, magazine subscriptions, or internal meetings unless they are officially accounted for by NUFOC. Some departments are self-financing, which is commended. The preliminary fee for 1979 is set at 50 Norwegian Kroner. There is concern that the fee might increase significantly, potentially leading to a drop in representation if the Head Office guarantees full coverage of "hobby work" expenses.

The estimated expenses for the Head Office in 1979 are listed as: Stationery (45.00 kr), Envelopes (60.00 kr), Stencils and ink (30.00 kr), Stamps (350.00 kr), Telephone (0.00 kr), and Miscellaneous unforeseen expenses (50.00 kr), totaling approximately 535.00 kr. Similar overviews are expected from other entities requiring subsidies. Amounts over 200.00 kr will be presented to the National Board.

New Application Forms

Starting in 1979, new application forms ("questionnaires") will be used. These are designed to accommodate individuals who wish to be associated with NUFOC but cannot commit to specific tasks outlined in previous forms. The new system introduces a "ASPIRANT" (aspirant) category for the first year. Aspirants will receive a certificate as proof of their status, replacing the old ID card. After the probationary period, they may receive a new certificate for their "position," becoming a recognized field researcher rather than an aspirant. Those who do not wish to participate in specific roles can still be aspirants without assigned tasks.

Training in Field Research

To meet the demand for field research training, the "VEILEDNING FOR FELTFORSKERE" (Guidance for Field Researchers) will be expanded to include instructions on taking plaster casts and a section on photography techniques. Each department is encouraged to create opportunities for practical field research exercises, such as taking plaster casts. The newsletter suggests that the Trøndelag counties and the Eastern Norway counties with section leaders are already well-positioned for this training. The VEST and NORD regions may face challenges due to geographical distances, where county leaders could play a role. The timely release of the updated guidance by the Rapportsentralen (Report Center) within the year is anticipated.

Should Møre and Romsdal Belong to Mid-Norway?

Questions have been raised about how to define departmental boundaries. While NUFOC ØST previously proposed using latitude and longitude, the current conclusion is that county boundaries are the most practical division. Møre and Romsdal would thus belong to VEST. However, for a more balanced distribution of areas, it is suggested that this county might be better suited to Mid-Norway, giving both Mid-Norway and VEST three counties each. The question is left open for discussion, with a specific request for VEST's opinion.

Older Issues of UFO Forum

There have been inquiries about older issues of "UFO Forum." The newsletter states that orders have been fulfilled to the extent that these back issues are still available. Interested parties are invited to contact NUFOC to inquire about availability.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter's recurring themes revolve around organizational efficiency, the challenges of managing a volunteer-based organization, the need for clear structures and defined roles, and the potential for growth through new projects like SEMIC. The editorial stance appears to be pragmatic and forward-looking, acknowledging existing problems while actively seeking solutions through restructuring and new initiatives. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of member participation and the need for effective administration to support the organization's goals. The SEMIC project is presented with considerable enthusiasm, seen as a major opportunity for NUFOC's future development and outreach.

This document is a single page from a publication, likely a magazine or newsletter, focusing on the URD project. The page is primarily text-based, detailing the project's progress and the availability of its first research report. The publication appears to be in Norwegian, with some information related to Sweden.

Project URD (UFO Reporting and Data System)

The main focus of this page is the URD project, which stands for UFO Reporting and Data System. The project has reportedly reached an "operational level" after significant effort. Specifically, the text mentions "over 1,200 hours of systematization and development work" and "approximately 800 hours of programming" for the data programs. This indicates a substantial investment in developing a structured system for handling UFO-related data.

First Research Report

The page announces that the first research report from the URD project is now prepared. This report was developed in close collaboration with the "International URD Foundation, Sweden" and with the involvement of "physicists and researchers at the Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan in Stockholm." This suggests a scientific and academic approach to the project.

The report is specifically targeted at "researchers and scientists" and is written in English. It is described as being approximately 115 pages long and includes "frequency tables, histograms, and cross-tabulations." This indicates a data-driven and analytical presentation of findings.

For those interested, a Swedish translation of the introduction to the report may be available. The material for the report was compiled from "in-depth elements of the URD Database."

Obtaining the Report

Interested individuals can order "Rapport nr. 1" (Report no. 1) by sending 49.00 SEK, which includes postage. Payment should be made to postgiro account number 40 01 77 - 2. The envelope should be marked "Rapport nr. 1." The mailing address for URD is provided as: URD, box 454, Stockholm, Sverige.

Contact and Administration

The page also includes administrative details. The "Hovedkassens postadresse" (Main cashier's postal address) is listed as NUFOC ØST, Box 64, 2001 LILLESTRØM. E. Fjeldberg is identified as the "Regnskapsforer-kasserer" (Accountant-Treasurer). The page is dated with a reference to "styret for evnt. hel eller delvis godkjennelse" (the board for eventual full or partial approval), suggesting an organizational structure.

At the bottom of the page, "For prosjekt URD" is signed by Sten Lindgren, indicating his role in the project. The page number is indicated as "10."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the systematic and scientific investigation of UFO phenomena through data collection and analysis, as embodied by the URD project. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting this research, making its findings accessible to the scientific community, and providing clear channels for obtaining detailed reports. The emphasis on data, statistics, and collaboration with academic institutions suggests a serious, evidence-based approach to the subject matter.