Klipprunden - 1986 01 20

Magazine Overview

This document is a New Year's letter from UFO-Norge, dated January 1, 1986, serving as a newsletter for its members. It reflects on the past year and outlines changes for the upcoming year. The content primarily consists of a personal letter from the editor, Odd-Gunnar Røed, detailing his experiences and frustrations with managing the 'Klipprunden' (clipping service), alongside reports of UFO sightings and related discussions.

Editor's Letter: Reflections and Changes

Odd-Gunnar Røed begins by noting that the 'Klipprunden' was established in January 1983 with only 12 members, but has since grown to 36. He expresses his initial enthusiasm and commitment to continuing the service as long as it remains enjoyable and rewarding. However, he admits to experiencing a decline in motivation and joy due to the ongoing effort required.

Røed outlines the pros and cons of the 'Klipprunden'. The advantages include connecting UFO enthusiasts across Norway and fostering ties with Swedish friends, which he personally values highly. He also appreciates positive feedback from members who find the newsletter enjoyable reading.

A significant portion of the letter is dedicated to the financial burdens of maintaining the service. Røed explains that many members have overpaid, which has helped finance the operation, but he highlights the hidden costs. These include the wear and tear on the copying machine's magnetic cylinder, which requires polishing and eventual replacement (costing 1000 Norwegian Kroner). He also mentions the ongoing cost of copying powder, with each package costing 160 Kroner and yielding approximately 2500 copies.

Røed expresses his deep frustration with the constant need to chase payments, stating that it has become an overwhelming burden. He notes that six payments for the fourth quarter of 1985 are still missing, and two members have outstanding bank loans that he is subsidizing. This financial stress has significantly impacted his desire to continue the 'charitable work' of providing information from both domestic and international UFO-related developments.

He laments that many members do not even bother to read the information provided, and some react with anger over minor issues or perceived slights in his writing style. Røed questions whether the UFO phenomenon is truly a matter of life and death, and if not, he is prepared to disengage. He notes that those who complained the loudest have moved on to their own activities.

Furthermore, Røed addresses the perception that some members who contribute significantly should receive the 'Klipprunden' at half price. He argues that if such discounts were applied to all active contributors, the service would cease to exist, as he receives no financial support from the main organization's fund.

He recounts his attempt to find someone to take over the 'Klipprunden', but received no response. This lack of engagement leads him to announce a significant change: the 'Klipprunden' will be discontinued in its current form. Instead, starting in 1986, a simplified version called 'Landsstyrenytt' (National Board News) will be implemented. Information will be sent to the national board and affiliated groups, who will then be responsible for distributing it to interested individuals in their respective districts. The price for board members and groups will remain 50 Kroner per quarter. Others wishing to receive information must contact their local representative or group to arrange a price.

Røed states that if he does not hear from anyone willing to take over the 'Klipprunden' within two weeks, his decision to cease the current operation will be final. He apologizes for sounding tired but emphasizes that he has many other thoughts and ideas unrelated to UFOs that he wishes to document, and he needs more free time.

'Landsstyrenytt' Update

A subsequent section, dated January 20, 1986, provides an update on the new 'Landsstyrenytt' initiative. The information is being sent to the national board and UFO-Sverige. The conclusion is drawn that those who do not actively seek the mailings will likely not miss the previous format. The new format is simpler, with the press clippings no longer being sent directly, but they will eventually appear in the magazine. This change is intended to reduce the editor's workload.

The editor will still mention interesting clippings to keep members informed. There will be no fixed fee for 'Landsstyrenytt'; members are encouraged to contribute what they feel is appropriate. Røed suggests that if no contributions are made, it will be seen as a judgment on the entire endeavor, which would also grant him more free time.

He thanks several individuals for their letters and contributions, including Hans Aass, Ulf Ekstedt, Per Ottesen, Erling Strand, Roar Wister, Hans Kr. Moe, Mats Nilsson, Einar Urdal, Leif Havik, Mentz Kaarbøe, Finn Kalvik, Knut Aasheim, and Leif N. Solhaug. These individuals, along with the Tønsberg group, will be the recipients of these new writings.

Leif has provided an overview of 1985 observations in Norway. An update on the Project Hessdalen Workshop is also mentioned, with the suggestion that cancellation might be the most appropriate course of action due to a lack of interest. The final decision is to be made at a committee meeting. The editor also notes the influx of calls from individuals eager to start groups, questioning the availability of information to offer them and who will be responsible for entertaining these new members.

The Tønsberg group held a meeting on spirituality, which was well-attended. Their next meeting will focus on plant communication.

Regional News and Contributions

Another section, dated January 27, 1986, contrasts the interest level in Oslo with that of Tønsberg. The Oslo group will now meet every two months, with the next meeting scheduled for January 27th at 7:00 PM. A thank you is extended to Hans Aass for a lengthy letter. Røed clarifies a payment of 50 Kroner, noting that Aass has paid enough and has a credit. A suggestion to pay 80 Kroner per quarter to maintain the old clipping service is mentioned, with the extra 30 Kroner intended for copying costs. Røed expresses a need for someone else to handle the copying due to his time constraints.

Regarding press clippings from 'ARGUS', Røed acknowledges that directly copying them might infringe on copyright. However, he argues that since UFO-Norge is a closed forum and does not compete with 'ARGUS' subscribers, and that sharing information about 'ARGUS' could be seen as a service, he believes it is unlikely to cause issues.

He notes that a request to serve as auditor was declined, but an offer to set up a chart of accounts for UFO-Norge was made. This is passed on to Finn and the committee.

Erling Strand is reported to be actively writing articles for 'Illustrert Vitenskap' and 'Viten', and contributions to Hilary Evans' ASSAP yearbook are also mentioned.

Finn reports a record number of subscribers for their publication in 1985, with 676. Two members have recruited new subscribers and will receive prizes. Per Fey and Karin Sæther from Oslo will each receive a UFO-NORGE car sticker.

UFO Reports and Articles

Several press clippings are summarized. A Tormod Hagen article in 'Lindesnes' (December 21, 1985) is described as large and significant. An article by Arnold Lockertsen in 'Lofotposten' (December 24, 1985), titled 'The Two Kinds of UFOs', discusses ancient beliefs about UFO propulsion systems, linking them to biblical accounts.

A report from Varden Skien (December 30, 1985) mentions a meeting of the Porsgrunn Høyres Pensjonistgruppe discussing the 'Bømlo imprint' phenomenon, suggesting a potential link to the Hessdalen phenomenon in parliamentary discussions.

Ancient Astronaut Theories and Biblical Connections

Another section delves into ancient astronaut theories, drawing parallels between biblical accounts in the Old Testament, particularly the Exodus from Egypt, and the concept of UFOs. The author posits that ancient texts describe two types of 'UFOs' with different propulsion systems: one based on combustion and another on electromagnetism. The author references the biblical narrative of Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai, describing a powerful arrival of 'Jahve' accompanied by phenomena suggestive of fusion energy and radioactivity.

The author analyzes the behavior of these ancient visitors, describing them as not always benevolent and sometimes demanding large sacrifices. The text contrasts these 'visitors' with another type that emitted light but no sound or smoke, referred to as 'flying saucers' in 1947.

The author mentions his personal involvement with the UFO phenomenon since 1956 and his extensive study of religious texts. He notes that in 1956, at the age of 41, he encountered phenomena that aligned with his understanding of ancient texts and the emerging UFO reports.

UFO Sightings Data

The issue includes lists of UFO reports from Hessdalen in 1985 and observations in Voss in 1985. These lists provide dates, times, locations, number of observers, and sometimes a tentative explanation (e.g., 'Bløff?', 'Meteoritt', 'Fly?', 'Planet'). The Hessdalen reports include specific locations like Finnsådalen, Hersjøen, Øyungen, and Rognefjell. The Voss reports are more numerous and detailed, with multiple sightings on some days.

A summary notes that reports from Hessdalen and Voss are not fully included in the overview, and approximately 15-20 other reports were omitted due to unreturned report forms.

Erich von Däniken's Visit

A prominent section announces the upcoming visit of Swiss author Erich von Däniken to Norway in 1986. Von Däniken is known for his theories about ancient astronauts. His visit is expected to be a significant event, coinciding with the release of his twelfth book, "Har jeg tatt feil?" (Have I been wrong?). The article suggests that his theories propose intelligent beings from another planet laid the foundation for life on Earth in ancient times.

Response to 'Slipp' (Clipping Service)

A list titled 'SVAR PÅ SLIPP' (Response to Clipping) provides the names of individuals and their countries, along with their status regarding participation or decision (e.g., 'Not Decided', 'N.D.', 'Not able to', 'Will Participate'). This list appears to be related to the 'Klipprunden' or a similar information-sharing initiative.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the challenges of managing a UFO research organization, the financial and administrative burdens involved, the need for member engagement, and the reporting of UFO sightings. The editor, Odd-Gunnar Røed, expresses a pragmatic and somewhat weary stance, emphasizing the practical difficulties of running the organization while also conveying his personal commitment to the subject matter. There is a clear editorial effort to streamline operations and manage expectations. The inclusion of ancient astronaut theories, particularly in relation to biblical texts, suggests a broad approach to UFO research that extends beyond modern sightings to historical and religious interpretations. The announcement of Erich von Däniken's visit indicates an interest in popular UFO-related figures and their theories within the UFO-Norge community.

This issue of Norske Argus, dated December 24, 1985, titled "UFO-er, vil gåtene noengang bli løst?" (UFOs, will the mysteries ever be solved?), is a Norwegian publication that delves deeply into the phenomenon of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The magazine features articles by Arnold Lockertsen, with illustrations by Dan, and draws on various sources, including witness testimonies, historical reports, and analyses of geographical patterns.

UFO Activity in Norway and 'Energy Lines'

The central theme of the magazine is the investigation of UFO activity, with a particular focus on Norway. The article highlights specific regions such as Lofoten, Meløy, and Hessdalen, suggesting that UFO sightings are concentrated within certain geographical 'energy lines' – longitudes that run across the earth. The author, Arnold Lockertsen, notes that these lines, whether crossing or parallel, seem to delineate areas of significant UFO presence. He points out that activity appears to be particularly focused between longitudes 11 and 19.5 degrees East, with a notable stop or boundary observed at these points. This belt extends from east of Oslo and the western edge of Hessdalen, reaching as far as Karlsøy in Troms on the eastern coast, and extending southwards across Poland.

Lockertsen also discusses the western side of this phenomenon, mentioning areas in mid-Norway like Gudbrandsdalen and Rømadalen near Åndalsnes, where UFO activity has also been reported. He draws a parallel to the naming conventions in these areas, noting the prevalence of names like 'Hellig' (Holy), 'Troll', and 'Engel' (Angel) on mountains and islands, which he finds intriguing in the context of UFO sightings.

Witness Testimonies and Encounters

The magazine presents several detailed accounts from individuals who claim to have witnessed UFOs. The Andersen family from Mandal is featured, recounting an encounter in April 1969 where they saw a dark, cigar-shaped UFO with three lights. The object followed their car and emitted a sharp beam of light. Later, the UFO reappeared, releasing two luminous gas spheres that melted snow near the car. The family experienced multiple encounters, leading them to believe they were being observed or investigated.

Another significant case discussed is that of Betty and Barney Hill, who in 1961 reportedly stopped their car to observe an intense light. They later experienced a period of lost time and physical marks, which they attributed to an abduction. To recall the events, they underwent hypnosis, revealing details of their experience.

Dr. Clara Stevens is also mentioned, having undergone hypnosis to recount a similar experience. His testimony describes a medical-like examination, including the sensation of a needle or beam being directed at his back, causing pain. He describes the interior of the UFO as a white, sterile room with a smooth, plasticky surface.

Three hunters in Scotland in 1978 independently witnessed a silent, disc-shaped UFO land on a marsh. They observed three small, grey-skinned beings, described as 'dwarfish', emerge from the craft with tools resembling buckets and spades. These beings collected soil and vegetation samples for about two minutes before returning to the UFO, which then ascended vertically and disappeared.

Geographical and Environmental Observations

Beyond direct sightings, the article touches upon unusual environmental observations. It mentions 'strips' or belts of land, sometimes only a few hundred meters wide, where vegetation is noticeably stunted or 'crippled'. Within these areas, people have reported seeing strange phenomena, including what appear to be temporary 'colonies' of houses that vanish when looked at again. Animals, particularly livestock and birds, tend to avoid these areas, while certain insects seem to thrive, consuming foliage. The article suggests a connection between these environmental anomalies and the 'energy lines' associated with UFO activity.

Official Stance and Skepticism

The magazine critically examines the official stance of governments, particularly the USA, regarding UFOs. It references 'Project Blue Book' and the Condon Report, which concluded that most UFO sightings had mundane explanations such as aircraft, weather balloons, or atmospheric phenomena, and posed no threat to national security. However, the article suggests that these official investigations may have overlooked or deliberately downplayed more compelling UFO reports. The author expresses skepticism about the thoroughness of these governmental inquiries, contrasting them with the efforts of private UFO research organizations.

In Norway, the Forsvarsdepartementet (Ministry of Defence) reportedly has no specific policy on UFOs, and personnel are not instructed to conceal such reports. The author chooses to believe these authorities but remains unconvinced about the ultimate truth being revealed.

Mentalité and Potential Contact

Lockertsen also speculates on the 'mentalité' of people living in areas with high UFO activity, questioning if they might be influenced. He also touches upon the geological composition of regions like the Kola Peninsula, noting that its mix of chalk and other loose elements makes settlement difficult. The article suggests that UFO activity in these areas should not be dismissed as mere entertainment but seen as the work of intelligences with a deeper understanding.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the systematic investigation of UFO phenomena, the geographical distribution of sightings along 'energy lines', the detailed accounts of witness encounters and alleged abductions, and a critical perspective on official government explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the persistent mystery of UFOs and questioning the adequacy of conventional explanations. The author concludes by posing a question about humanity's worthiness for official contact with advanced extraterrestrial visitors, suggesting that such contact may only occur when humanity has resolved its own internal conflicts and problems.