AI Magazine Summary

IUSI - No 08 1978

Summary & Cover Intern UFO-Sverigeinformation (UFO-Sverige)

Ever wanted to host your own late-night paranormal radio show?

Across the Airwaves · Narrative Sim · Windows · $2.95

You’re on the air. Callers bring Mothman, Fresno Nightcrawlers, UFO sightings, reptilian autopsies, and whispers about AATIP and Project Blue Book. Every reply shapes how the night goes.

UFO & UAP Cryptids Paranormal Government Secrets Classified Files High Strangeness Strange Creatures
The night is long. The lines are open →

20,263

issue summaries

Free. Always.

Support the Archive

Building and maintaining this collection is something I genuinely enjoy. If you’ve found it useful and want to say thanks, a small contribution keeps me motivated to keep expanding it. Thank you for your kindness 💚

Donate with PayPal

AI-Generated Summary

Overview

This issue of INTERN UFO-Sverigeinformation, identified as number 8 and dated October 25, 1978, is a confidential internal publication from the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sveriges Centralgrupp. It is intended exclusively for local groups, district leaders, field researchers, and…

Magazine Overview

This issue of INTERN UFO-Sverigeinformation, identified as number 8 and dated October 25, 1978, is a confidential internal publication from the Riksorganisationen UFO-Sveriges Centralgrupp. It is intended exclusively for local groups, district leaders, field researchers, and active members of UFO-Sweden, with a strict prohibition against sharing its contents with third parties. The magazine is published approximately 10 times per year, with a subscription costing 35 kronor for a calendar year.

Editorial Content

The editorial section, written by 'Mats', addresses the challenges of producing the internal newsletter, highlighting the need for more material and the effort involved in editing and writing. It notes that UFO-Sweden faces opposition from various sources, some of which are unaware of the damage they cause. The editor laments that 'vulgar word-slingers' often gain more traction in the media than serious researchers. A call is made for readers to submit Science Fiction stories, as the supply has dwindled. Practical matters are also discussed, including a plea for members to assist with the timely distribution of 'UFO-Information' by contacting CAJ, and an explanation that Central Group members may use the answering machine, but direct contact with Thorvald is preferred for urgent matters.

'Samhällen i rymden' (Societies in Space)

This section briefly touches upon NASA's findings regarding the feasibility of building and populating permanent space communities. It suggests that the primary obstacles are philosophical, political, and social rather than technical. The concept of a permanent space society for 10,000 people, orbiting the Earth in the Moon's path, is mentioned, with details about a 130-meter diameter tubular structure bent into a 1790-meter diameter circle.

'Klotblixten' (Ball Lightning)

This extensive article explores the phenomenon of ball lightning, describing it as one of nature's most peculiar enigmas. It is characterized as a round, glowing ball that hangs motionless before sinking and exploding, often mistaken for a flying saucer. The article notes that ball lightning can appear in various colors and sizes, with most lasting less than 15 seconds. Dr. Axel Wittman, an astronomer from Göttingen, has researched ball lightning extensively but has not yet found a definitive explanation, though theories suggest it might be very hot gas (plasma) at temperatures between 2000 and 3000°C. The difficulty in photographing ball lightning is highlighted, with only a few images accepted as genuine by researchers. The article also discusses how ball lightning is sometimes used to explain UFO sightings, but cautions that this explanation is only valid under specific conditions, such as during thunderstorms.

'VAD BESTÅR EN KLOTBLIXT AV OCH HUR UPPSTÅR DEN?' (What is Ball Lightning Made Of and How Does It Occur?)

This section delves deeper into the theories surrounding ball lightning. It is often observed during thunderstorms and may originate from a regular lightning bolt that 'curls' into a ball. The most likely explanation is that it consists of very hot plasma. While regular lightning can be studied in labs, ball lightning remains elusive. The article mentions that Dr. Wittman has a collection of alleged ball lightning photos, most of which he has identified as forgeries. He emphasizes that if a luminous object is seen for more than a minute on a clear night, it is unlikely to be ball lightning.

'Ufologins arbetsformer' (The Working Methods of Ufology)

Written by Anders Liljegren, this article critically examines the state of ufology in Sweden, particularly the work of UFO magazines. Liljegren notes that despite the passion and effort of dedicated members, the field struggles with a lack of material and a tendency towards competition between organizations. He suggests that the focus on producing magazines and administrative tasks detracts from more long-term projects and research. Liljegren criticizes the 'showy' nature of some publications, arguing that the focus should be on intellectual inquiry rather than mere entertainment. He also points out issues with translation quality and the apparent underrepresentation of Swedish UFO observations in publications, possibly due to commercial selection. He advocates for a more serious approach to publishing, including better translations and potentially starting their own publishing house. Furthermore, he calls for more in-depth analysis of UFO cases, exploring their social and psychological consequences, and suggests collaboration with universities for research.

Thorvald Berthelsen's Commentary on 'Ufologin Arbetsformer'

Thorvald Berthelsen responds to Anders Liljegren's article, agreeing with the assessment of the challenges but suggesting that Liljegren's estimate of truly active members might be too low. Berthelsen defends the need for magazines like 'UFO-Information' to maintain public interest and create debate, even if it means including 'entertaining' content alongside scientific articles. He explains that the translation work is done by volunteers with varying educational backgrounds, and that the organization cannot afford professional translators. He addresses the perceived decrease in Swedish UFO observations by stating that many reported cases are now being identified as misinterpretations due to improved training of field researchers. He also notes that the first half of 1978 was a poor period for genuine UFO reports.

'Uppklarade fenomen' (Clarified Phenomena)

This section reports on clarified cases from the UFO-Sweden report center. It lists several sightings of meteors, bolides, and space debris, including a bright object with a tail seen across southern and central Sweden in late September and early October 1978.

'DET FINNS ANDRA VERKLIGHETER' (There Are Other Realities)

This article, based on research by Professor Hans Bender of the Freiburg Institute for Parapsychology, discusses unexplained phenomena, particularly focusing on the 'Rosenheim Poltergeist' case. It describes a series of poltergeist-like events at a law office in Rosenheim, Germany, which occurred when a 19-year-old employee, Annemarie S, was present. These phenomena ceased when she moved away. Professor Bender's research suggests that such events are often linked to adolescents experiencing severe psychological stress, though he believes they do not directly cause the phenomena but rather organize the energies involved. The article also touches upon clairvoyance, telepathy, psychokinesis, and precognition, highlighting precognition as a particularly unsettling phenomenon that challenges our understanding of time and space.

'SATELLIT?' (Satellite?)

This piece reports on a mysterious 'space ball' found in Östra Arådalen, Sweden, on August 14, 1978. The object, weighing approximately 10 kg and measuring 40 cm in diameter, was found partially buried in hard soil. It exhibits signs of extreme heating and has markings that could possibly be interpreted as 'max' and 'with', leading to speculation about NASA's involvement. Theories suggest it may have fallen during the previous winter and remained undamaged due to the snow cover. The article also mentions that the Swedish National Defence Research Establishment (FOA) has taken possession of the object and that another similar object is reportedly hidden in Jämtland.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the scientific investigation of unexplained phenomena like ball lightning and UFOs, the operational challenges and public perception of ufology in Sweden, and the exploration of parapsychological events. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting serious, albeit accessible, research into UFOs and related phenomena, while acknowledging the need to engage a broad audience. There's a clear emphasis on distinguishing genuine UFO cases from misinterpretations and on fostering a more scientific and less sensationalist approach to the subject, despite the inherent difficulties in achieving this within the current organizational and media landscape.

This issue of "Möte med UFO" (Meeting with UFO), Volume 1, Issue 2, dated September 24, 1978, published by Aftonbladet, focuses on UFO phenomena, science fiction, and related scientific discoveries. The cover features a dramatic illustration of a space monster with the headline "RYMDMONSTER PÅ VÄG MOT JORDEN" (Space Monsters on the Way to Earth), hinting at the science fiction content.

Föreningarnas Aktuellt (Organization News)

Fysikaliska Klubben i Västerås

A meeting of the Physical Club in Västerås is announced for November 1, 1978, featuring a lecture by Laborator Sture Vickerts from FOA (Swedish Defence Research Agency) on the topic "UFO – vad ligger bakom?" (UFO – what's behind it?). The lecture will discuss UFO phenomena, the collection and scientific scrutiny of public reports, and will present experiences from FOA's evaluation of these reports. While acknowledging the phenomena, the presentation reportedly does not support the 'flying saucer' theory.

Västerbergslagens UFO-förening

This section details the formation and activities of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening (Västerås-Bergslagen UFO Association). It originated from two earlier associations, Ludvika UFO-förening (25 members, 1976) and Söderbärke UFO-förening (35 members). On January 20, 1978, they merged to form the new association with 60 members (10 active, 50 passive). The current board is listed, including Juan Manzanares as chairman. The association aims to prove the existence of unidentified flying objects, gain general acceptance for UFOs as a reality, and act as a contact point for the public. They note limited interest from mass media and authorities but have a positive relationship with them. The association publishes a magazine called "UFO-Nytt" (UFO-News), which was formerly the Ludvika UFO-förening's publication. They maintain contact with international UFO groups in Spain, Portugal, Canada, USA, and England. The association holds monthly theme nights, often featuring films about astronauts and space travel, and has open premises for members and the public. They also organize study circles in various subjects. The main challenge they face is financial, with membership fees set at 20 SEK for adults and 10 SEK for children. They believe public attitudes towards UFOs have shifted slightly and advise other groups to work seriously and build a solid foundation.

Verbalimplicator

This is a satirical or critical piece on bureaucratic language. It introduces a system called "VERBAL IMPLIKATOR" which uses three groups of ten 'weight words' (ORDGRUPP 1, 2, and 3). By combining a three-digit number, one can form complex phrases like "SYSTEMATISK OPTIONELL SYNKRONISERING" (Systematic Optional Synchronization). The article suggests this system can easily delay any decision-making process for years, giving an "undeniable authority" to investigations. The "moral of the story" is to use simple Swedish instead of complicated foreign words.

Närradion startar (Local Radio Starts)

Starting in early 1979, local organizations in about 15 locations will have the opportunity to participate in experimental local radio broadcasts with a range of approximately four kilometers. Televerket (the Swedish Telecom) will provide transmitters for a fee. Organizations must cover their own studio equipment costs, but can collaborate with other local groups. Interested organizations are invited to submit applications by November 1, 1978, detailing their planned activities, membership numbers, and responsible personnel. The applications will be used to select pilot projects, after which other local organizations can also apply. The committee's chairman is Karl-Eric Norrby, and the secretary is Olle Palmborg.

Hallå Kluringen (Hello Puzzle Corner)

This section includes a letter from Per Wallenberg asking if there is a UFO association that deals with 'flying saucers' and if the publication believes in them. The response directs Per to UFO-Sverige in Enköping (phone number 0221/310 25), which can provide information on local chapters and reporting sightings. The respondent states they will only believe in flying saucers if they see one themselves.

MÖTE MED UFO - DEL 2 (Meeting with UFO - Part 2)

Resume: Mattias Andersson

Journalist Mattias Andersson is sent to Ånn, a town in Jämtland, Sweden, to investigate reports of flying objects. He travels to a location where he believes he might witness a UFO. After preparing for the cold, he heads towards the lake. He experiences strange sounds and a red glow over the lake, followed by cracking ice sounds. He then witnesses a large, ship-like object approaching, described as being as large as a ship, with round windows. The object lands, and a figure emerges, speaking perfect Swedish through a helmet. The figure invites Mattias aboard, and he is taken to a 'radar central' within the craft. The 'captain' explains that they are military personnel and that Mattias will be trained to work in a 'Meta-factory'. The captain mentions that they handle 'take care of' the thousands of people who disappear in Sweden each year and that their mission is top secret. Mattias is injected to help him cope with gravitational forces during flight.

MINIPLANET HITTAD (Mini-Planet Found)

Astronomer Charles Kowal at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena may have discovered a tenth planet in the solar system. This object, not yet officially classified as a planet, is described as not being an asteroid, comet, or moon, and has a diameter of no more than 600 km. It orbits the sun every 115 years and is located between Saturn and Uranus, approximately 2.4 billion km from Earth. The discovery was made after microscopic analysis of photographs. Further confirmation is awaited from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.

Tennisstjärnan Kjell Johansson

Tennis star Kjell Johansson is a member of UFO-Sverige. He explains that his interest began five years prior after finding a book on UFOs. He has since read many books and subscribed to UFO-Information but has never personally seen a UFO, attributing his interest to the mystery. He notes that many 'celebrities' are members of UFO-Sverige but cannot be advertised unless they speak out in the media.

LIV INUTI ANTARKTIS KLIPPOR (Life Inside Antarctic Rocks)

Scientists working in Antarctica have discovered living organisms within rock blocks in the Dry Valleys, an area with a harsh climate similar to Mars. This discovery expands the known boundaries of life on Earth and suggests new methods for searching for extraterrestrial life. The newly discovered microorganisms (bacteria, algae, and fungi) are being studied in a laboratory. The Dry Valleys were previously considered sterile, but the organisms were found in microscopic niches within the rocks, protected from the harsh conditions. Dr. E Imre Friedman and Dr. Roseli Ocampo-Friedman from Florida State University led the discovery. Dr. Richard S. Young, NASA's head of planetary biology, notes that this finding is relevant to the search for life on Mars, as it suggests life might exist within rocks, which the Viking landers could not penetrate. This analogy could influence the design of future equipment for planetary exploration.

RYMDMONSTER PÅ VÄG MOT JORDEN (Space Monsters on the Way to Earth)

This section reviews the science fiction film "Stridsplanet: Galactica" (Starship: Galactica), set to premiere in Sweden in October. The film is described as a "hissnande science-fictionäventyr" (breathtaking science-fiction adventure) costing 35 million SEK. The plot involves a thousand-year war between human colonists and reptilian creatures called Cylons. The story follows two young pilots, Captain Apollo and Lieutenant Starbuck, who uncover a Cylon deception. After the destruction of 12 colonies, the survivors board the "rymd-ark" (space ark) Galactica, commanded by Adama, who seeks a 13th colony on Earth. The film's creator, Glen A. Larson, is known for TV series like "Alias Smith & Jones" and "McCloud." The article suggests the film's events could have happened in the past, with the survivors becoming Earth's ancestors. John Dykstra, an Oscar-winning special effects photographer from "Stjärnornas Krig" (Star Wars), is a producer, along with Leslie Stevens, and they developed new spaceship models and camera techniques for the film.

Polisers vittnesmål (Police Testimonies)

De fick 35.000 kr för att de såg ett UFO! (They received 35,000 SEK for seeing a UFO!)

This article reports on five American police officers from Memphis, Tennessee, who received a prize for their UFO sighting. On May 17, 1977, at 3:30 AM, officers Jerry W. Jeter and Troy L. Todd observed a large, triangular, football-field-sized metallic object hovering over a golf course. It glittered in different colors and disappeared at high speed after being observed for three minutes. They later learned that three other colleagues had seen the same object earlier that morning. The prize was awarded by a UFO-phenomena organization, with Jeter and Todd receiving 14,000 SEK each, and the other three receiving 2,500 SEK each. Dr. Willard P. Armstrong, a jury member, highlighted the officers' credibility due to their training, good health, and observational duties. Dr. John L. Warren noted that the officers provided an excellent description and could estimate the object's speed. The rapid disappearance when the officers pointed a rifle at the object suggests a possible connection, implying the object may have felt threatened.

"Närkontakt av tredje graden" (Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

Sven-Olof Hultqvist, chairman of the Vimmerby UFO-förening (Vimmerby UFO Association), discusses the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." He believes the film accurately portrays the UFO problem, particularly in its depiction of how authorities often dismiss or explain away sightings. While he finds the ending less aligned with his views, he praises the film's music and visuals. He quotes Ray Bradbury, who called it "the most important film for humanity ever made," and believes the film will increase public understanding of UFOs, which were once a taboo subject. He notes that media and authorities are now more open to the topic. Regarding President Carter's reported UFO sighting, Hultqvist states that Carter promised to initiate action on UFO reports. The Vimmerby UFO club has about 20 members and holds regular meetings and observation nights.

Amerika: Tept 9 (America: Tept 9)

Psychologist Leo Sprinkle of the University of Wyoming claims to have evidence of UFO existence, based on hypnotizing fifty individuals who reported being aboard flying saucers. He presented his findings at the 86th Congress of the American Psychological Association in Toronto.

Statlig forskning på gång? (State Research Underway?)

Thorvald Berthelsen, chairman of Riks-organisationen UFO Sverige, believes UFO research is becoming a serious and recognized scientific field, even in Sweden. France was the first country to establish state-funded UFO research in 1977. While the US lacks direct state support, the military has conducted its own investigations. Professor Hynek, a former UFO expert for the US military, now runs a dedicated UFO lab. Berthelsen suggests that the Soviet Union is also investing heavily in UFO research and parapsychology. China has also shown interest, with a Chinese air force chief writing an article advocating for UFO research. Berthelsen anticipates that UFO research will gain recognition in Sweden as more physicists and astronomers become interested, and he hopes Sweden will collaborate with other European countries. He estimates that about 80% of reported UFO sightings can be explained by natural phenomena, but a remaining 5% remain unexplained, warranting serious attention. He mentions a case in Trehörningssjö, Sweden, where a man reported seeing "ufo-nauts" and their craft, with small footprints found at the scene.

UFO-UTSTÄLLNING (UFO Exhibition)

UFO enthusiasts in Sweden have noted increased interest, partly due to the film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." A UFO exhibition is currently running in Köping, featuring UFO models and an electric motor based on an ancient Indian drawing. This exhibition is set to become a permanent fixture at the Köping museum, making it the world's first permanent UFO museum. A traveling version of the exhibition will tour several Swedish cities.

Miljoner till forskning? (Millions for Research?)

Scientists are urging the US Congress to approve NASA's proposal for a 50 million dollar annual budget for a long-term "signal-searching program." The goal is to develop technology to receive radio or electromagnetic signals from outer space. Dr. Richard Berendzen, president of California University, believes that contact with extraterrestrial civilizations is not a matter of 'if' but 'when.' He estimates there are a million advanced civilizations in other solar systems. He dismisses the idea of interstellar travel or landings by 'flying saucers' in the near future but emphasizes the vastness of the universe. Dr. Phillip Morrison of MIT notes that while civilizations may be sparse, they could exist in many places. He points out that current radio equipment is inadequate for detecting such signals, but new digital technology could enable receivers capable of scanning a million wavelengths simultaneously. He also cautions that communication could take centuries due to vast distances.

BUENOS AIRES (TT-AFP)

Two participants in a South American car rally reported being robbed of their gasoline by a flying saucer near Videma. The object emitted a bright light, stopped their car, lifted it into the air for a minute, and then drained its fuel tank.

Inga fantasier (No Fantasies)

Contacts with extraterrestrial civilizations are no longer just fantasies but a natural part of human history. Dr. Phillip Morrison suggests that while civilizations may be far apart, they are likely numerous. He highlights the limitations of past detection methods and the potential of new digital technology to scan a million wavelengths simultaneously.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO phenomena from various angles, including personal sightings, organizational activities, scientific research, and science fiction portrayals. There's an underlying theme of increasing public and scientific interest in UFOs, moving from a fringe topic to one considered for serious investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the subject, presenting both skeptical analyses and accounts of unexplained events, while also acknowledging the potential for bureaucratic obfuscation and the allure of science fiction narratives. The emphasis on using clear, native language suggests a preference for directness and accessibility over jargon. The inclusion of satirical elements, like the 'Verbalimplicator,' indicates a critical eye towards how information is presented and processed, particularly in official contexts.

Title: Filmtidningen
Issue: Nr 2
Volume: 1978
Issue Date: 1978
Publisher: Filmtidningen
Country: Sweden
Original Language: Swedish

Cover Story: "Du blev lurad landningen på Mars var FALSKT RYMDJIPPO!"

The cover of this issue of Filmtidningen prominently features the headline "Du blev lurad landningen på Mars var FALSKT RYMDJIPPO!" (You were fooled the landing on Mars was FAKE SPACESHIP!). The main article delves into the film "Capricorn One," which allegedly portrays the first Mars landing as a staged event, a massive hoax orchestrated by NASA. The article questions the reality of such events, suggesting that the public might have been deceived. It highlights the investigative journalist's role in uncovering this alleged scandal, drawing parallels to the Watergate scandal. The narrative describes a thrilling chase sequence as the journalist is pursued for exposing the truth. The piece concludes by urging readers to be more critical, leaving them to ponder whether humanity's first steps on the moon were genuine or part of a grand deception.

"Nytt stjärnkrig filmas i Norge"

This section announces that the sequel to the popular space adventure "Star Wars" is set to begin filming in Norway in the early part of the following year. The report states that Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia will be featured in the Norwegian snowy mountain landscape. Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford are confirmed to return for the new film, alongside robots and aliens, in a story set in a frozen galaxy.

"Jättedrake orsakade kaos i London"

This article reports on an unusual incident in London where a 56-year-old American named Sam da Vinci caused significant disruption by tying his new, silver, glittering giant kite to a tree in Hyde Park. The kite, described as a "giant dragon flyer," led to traffic jams in central London, several traffic accidents, and numerous reports of flying saucers. The incident also caused disruptions at airports due to low-flying aircraft. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured. Da Vinci expressed frustration over the kite's disappearance, stating it took him four years to build. The police were reportedly unsure of the exact charge to bring against him, considering options like "tying an object to a tree in Hyde Park." Da Vinci apologized for the incident, explaining that he had flown the kite many times without issue and would be more careful in the future, especially at night.

"ORDET FRITT" - Internal Debate within UFO-Sverige

This section contains a series of letters and responses related to an internal debate within the Swedish UFO organization, UFO-Sverige. The core of the discussion revolves around a proposal for an "election committee" (valberedning) and the perceived organizational practices within the group.

Letter from Bernt Berglund to UFO-Sverige Information:

Bernt Berglund writes, feeling personally attacked by an article titled "VALBEREDNING." He clarifies that his proposal for an election committee was intended to give all members an opportunity to submit their own suggestions and help select representatives from across Sweden. He criticizes the anonymous author of the article for not understanding basic organizational techniques and for using the term "coup methods" as a personal accusation. Berglund expresses his belief that internal discussions should happen in open letters to the magazine, not through anonymous articles targeting individuals. He states that if UFO-Sverige operates on pure suspicion, he wishes to be removed from the membership register, and he will not envy the organization or its members who comply with what he perceives as an authoritarian leadership.

Response from Thorvald Berthelsen to Bernt Berglund:

Thorvald Berthelsen, a member of the central group, responds to Berglund's letter. He explains that the internal magazine's purpose is to foster debate and clarify issues. He clarifies the intended meaning of a previous notice, which was meant to suggest that an election committee could help steer the organization in a desired direction, not necessarily to oust the current board. Berthelsen emphasizes the need to follow ethical rules, such as not naming individuals without clear protocol evidence. He argues that the word "BÖR" (should) in association with committee roles is functionally equivalent to "SKALL" (shall) in Swedish association practices, and deviating from this could cause criticism. He notes that the central group is generally positive towards Berglund's proposal for an election committee.

Berthelsen then outlines three specific points that have led the central group to be cautious:

1. Meeting Technicalities (1978-04-16): A letter received detailed criticisms about meeting procedures during the previous national meeting, some valid, others vague. Accusations of the meeting being "controlled" were made.
2. Meeting Location: A request from Västerbergslagens UFO-förening to hold the next national meeting in the center of Sweden led to the relocation from Gothenburg to Köping, as Köping was geographically more central and closer to Ludvika.
3. Information Requests: Bernt Berglund requested nomination lists for UFO-Information and addresses of local groups, field researchers, and individual members. Berthelsen explained that organizational matters should be published in the internal magazine, not UFO-Information, citing reader complaints about the latter. While addresses for groups and researchers were provided, the membership register (nearly two thousand names) was withheld due to a past incident in 1972 where UFO-Sverige's membership register was compromised and ended up with a competing UFO magazine.

Berthelsen expresses concern that a similar incident might be occurring again. He recounts a previous attempt to gauge the situation by asking Västerbergslagens UFO-förening if they would form the election committee, but received no response. This lack of response raised concerns about their potential motives, possibly to gain access to the membership register if elected to the central group. Berthelsen views Bernt Berglund's willingness to speak openly as a person, rather than behind the facade of the Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, as positive. He reiterates that the statement about UFO-Sverige's "readiness against coup methods" since 1973 refers to incidents like the 1972 membership register issue. He defends UFO-Sverige's leadership as not authoritarian, but rather encouraging local groups to take initiative and operate independently. He contrasts this with typical national organizations that have uniform statutes. He concludes by inviting Bernt to share his perspective and urging him not to circumvent the question of why Västerbergslagens UFO-förening did not respond to the central group's letter. He hopes the current deadlock can be resolved through open debate.

Letter from Västerbergslagens UFO-förening to UFO-Sverige:

This letter, dated June 22, 1978, from Bernt Berglund of Västerbergslagens UFO-förening, addresses the planning conference in Nyköping (July 9, 1978) and "UFO-78." They express that they cannot accept a planning conference limited to 2.5 hours, believing a conference covering the entire Riksorganisationen UFO-Sverige requires at least two days. They list six points that they feel cannot be adequately addressed in such a short time: concrete proposals, tips for operations, help for UFO-Information, Nordic cooperation, other important proposals, and open discussion. They propose that the event be renamed "UFO-Träff" (UFO Meet-up) where discussions can lead to planning a two-day conference. This conference should involve discussion, group work, and a joint presentation of proposals, which would then be sent to all Swedish groups for discussion. They emphasize that all UFO-Sverige members should have a say in the program, and any new changes or proposals should reach UFO-Sverige well before the 1979 National Meeting/Annual General Meeting. The letter suggests that this proposal should be read aloud at the planning conference on July 9, 1978, for participants to consider.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the intersection of film and ufology, with a focus on how UFOs and space exploration are portrayed in popular media. There's also a significant focus on internal organizational dynamics and debates within the UFO community, specifically UFO-Sverige. The editorial stance appears to encourage open discussion and critical thinking, both regarding media portrayals and internal organizational matters. The magazine acts as a platform for airing grievances, clarifying misunderstandings, and fostering debate, aiming to resolve issues openly rather than through private channels or anonymous attacks.