Studiekreds Bladet - 1975 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: STUDIEKREDSBLADET
Issue: 1
Volume: 2
Year: 1975
Publisher: STUDIEKREDSBLADET
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of STUDIEKREDSBLADET, a Danish UFO study group newsletter, focuses on the operational challenges and contributions of various UFO groups across the country. The magazine aims to foster better contact and collaboration among these groups.

Editorial Concerns and Call for Participation

The editorial section expresses significant concern about the declining participation and lack of contributions from UFO study groups. The editor notes that the initial intention of creating a comprehensive journal where many Danish UFO study groups would share information has faltered. The number of active groups contributing to the magazine has dwindled from 8-9 to 4-5. This issue is particularly affected, with only three groups submitting material. The editor laments the lack of feedback, suggestions, criticism, and responses to articles, which makes it difficult to continue dedicating time and effort to the publication. Despite these challenges, the editor expresses a willingness to continue publishing the 1975 issues, as readers have paid for them, but questions the long-term viability of the magazine under his editorship.

The editor highlights that Studiekredsbladet serves as a crucial, easy way for groups to stay informed about UFO activities in Denmark, saving them the effort of individual correspondence. The magazine is open to all opinions on the UFO subject, with a dedicated 'DEBATKASSEN' (Debate Box) for differing viewpoints.

New subscribers, primarily individuals, have joined after an advertisement in UFO-Nyt. The editor emphasizes that even individuals without group affiliation can benefit from the magazine, as it is a primary source for following UFO study group activities in Denmark. This interest, the editor argues, places an obligation on the groups to contribute.

The editorial content is becoming increasingly personal due to the lack of external contributions. The editor is compelled to write much of the material himself, deviating from the original plan to merely edit submitted content and write an editorial. The editor expresses interest in the phenomenon of 'De Sorte Mænd' (The Black Men) and mentions receiving new material on the subject, which will be spread across this and the next issue.

UFO Reports and Group Activities

Fredericia UFO Gruppe:

Minutes from meetings on March 14 and April 11, 1975, are included. The March meeting discussed planning an UFO lecture for May 2, featuring X.P. Madsen, though Frank Pedersen from Hjørring might replace him if Madsen is unavailable. A poster design was discussed and approved. The group also reviewed UFO reports, noting a concentration of sightings on Fyn and some in their own area. A phone conversation with X.P. mentioned observations in another region. The group also discussed the 'UFO-75' event and decided to categorize observations into three types: those with clear explanations, those with good data but no clear explanation, and the rest.

The April meeting focused on finalizing plans for the UFO lecture, including the poster distribution. The group discussed the budget for the event and expressed some concern about its success in Nordjylland, which is perceived as having low UFO interest. Despite this, they remain hopeful and are working to promote the lecture.

Fredericia UFO Gruppe has a tradition of sending newspaper clippings about local UFO observations, which the editorial team appreciates.

Reports on Light Phenomena in Fredericia:

Several reports from Fredericia detail observations of green 'bubbles' or light phenomena. One resident observed a luminous object with white and red lights. Another reported an object resembling a large kite with lights that split into green bubbles. Fry Kathe Brygger and her daughter also saw green bubbles followed by a fireball.

A report from the Fredericia Dagblad on May 1, 1975, debunks a UFO sighting as three boys flying a kite with Nefa lights. Bent Eriksen, chairman of the local UFO group, acknowledges that natural explanations exist for some sightings and encourages people to report observations to him.

SUFOI – Ålborg:

Minutes from meetings on April 6 and April 17, 1975, are provided. The April 6 meeting focused on planning a public UFO lecture for May 2 in Ålborg. A poster was designed and approved. The group also processed UFO reports, noting activity in Ålborg and Nordjylland, with some coverage in the local newspaper. They had collected 19 reports and were aware of a few more.

The April 17 meeting continued discussions about the UFO lecture, with the poster being ready. The group discussed the budget and potential attendance, acknowledging that Nordjylland might have lower UFO interest. They expressed hope for the event's success.

Svendborg UFO Klub:

Minutes from meetings on April 2 and May 6, 1975, are included. The April 2 meeting involved viewing a slide show and discussing theories about extraterrestrial origins. The May 6 meeting saw four regular members and two new attendees. One new member found the group through UFO-Nyt, and the other through a newspaper article. The group received five UFO report forms from the Langeland area, with consistent descriptions suggesting the same UFOs were observed. Frank received two color photos of a round, fuzzy object, possibly with an oval shape within, suggesting UFOs might hide in artificial clouds.

Nye UFO-Grupper (New UFO Groups):

The magazine notes the existence of several UFO study circles in Denmark that have not yet contacted Studiekredsbladet. It mentions a group of approximately 22 people in Odense and expresses hope to establish contact. The Bornholm UFO CLUB is also mentioned, with a lack of response to SB's inquiries.

Collaboration and Report Collection

An article titled 'SAMARBEJDE OM UFO-SAGEN I DANMARK' (Cooperation on the UFO Issue in Denmark) discusses a collaboration meeting between SUFOI, various Danish groups, IGAP, and FUFOS. FUFOS has agreed to the report collection agreement with SUFOI, with the understanding that all new reports would be made known monthly through the magazine, a detailed annual report would be published, and groups would receive copies of reports while maintaining anonymity. FUFOS expressed disappointment that SUFOI did not agree to the anonymity point.

The article states that FUFOS has begun submitting reports to X.P. Madsen at SUFOI. It is seen as a positive step that Danish UFO groups are attempting to get closer to each other, working towards common goals with similar methods.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Studiekredsbladet strongly emphasizes the importance of active participation and contribution from UFO study groups. The editorial stance is one of concern over declining engagement, highlighting the challenges this poses to the magazine's existence and quality. There is a clear call to action for groups to submit their findings, opinions, and research. The magazine also serves as a platform for reporting UFO sightings and phenomena across Denmark, with a focus on specific incidents and group activities. The recurring theme is the need for collaboration and information sharing within the Danish UFO community to advance research and public awareness.

This issue of the Danish magazine "UFO" (Volume 11, Issue 75), dated July 19-25, 1975, features a prominent cover headline "DE SORTE MÆND IGEN!" (The Black Men Again!). The magazine is published by SUFOI and focuses on UFO phenomena, research, and organizations.

Collaboration Among UFO Organizations

An article by Steen Landsy of FUFOS discusses the potential for greater collaboration among Danish UFO organizations. He highlights the significant membership base (around 3700) and suggests that a unified approach could lead to a much stronger organization. Landsy proposes the creation of a single publication that represents all viewpoints within the UFO community. He references a successful "UFO-UGE 1973" event, which involved exhibitions and lectures in multiple cities, reaching 8,000 people and costing 20,000 DKK. He emphasizes that the goal should be to inform the public and conduct serious, unbiased research into the UFO problem, urging for immediate cooperation.

In response, the editorial team acknowledges Landsy's points and calls for a "real dialogue" among the various Danish UFO organizations, encouraging their leaders to comment on his proposal.

The 'Men in Black' (MIB) Phenomenon

The magazine features a multi-part article series by John J. Robinsen, with assistance from the publisher of SAUCER NEWS, titled "DE SORTE MÆND IGEN!" (The Black Men Again!). This section delves into the phenomenon of the "Men in Black" (MIB).

Robinsen begins by stating his initial skepticism about the "Men in Black" but his commitment to exploring all sides of UFO-related issues. He recounts his correspondence with ufologist Gray Barker, author of "They Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers," seeking concrete information about MIB. While Barker did not provide a direct response, Robinsen received a copy of "SAUCER NEWS," which contained a summary of American UFO literature.

Robinsen shares his personal views and those of other ufologists. He mentions Coral Lorenzen, who believes the MIB phenomenon might be a fabrication by Gray Barker to create sensationalism and profit. Robinsen acknowledges the lack of concrete evidence for MIB encounters, noting that accounts often rely on the word of a few individuals.

Case Studies and Encounters:

• George Smyth's Experiences: The article details several incidents involving George Smyth, a UFO researcher from Elizabeth, New Jersey. Smyth's interest in UFOs began during his service in Korea. After returning to civilian life, he continued his research and subscribed to "SAUCER NEWS."
• The Green Creature: On October 10, 1966, two teenagers in Elizabeth reported seeing a tall, green, humanoid creature with red eyes in a forest. During the subsequent investigation by a group including Smyth, a black car was observed parked nearby, and two dark-skinned men with unusual features emerged. These men questioned the teenagers and displayed peculiar eye characteristics and an accent that Smyth could not identify.
• Mysterious Phone Calls and Threats: Smyth received a cryptic phone call urging him to abandon UFO research. Later, on Thanksgiving Eve in 1967, a man matching the description of the MIB approached Smyth outside his home. The man, who identified himself as knowing Smyth by name, demanded Smyth's UFO research materials. When Smyth refused, the man issued a veiled threat: "You will regret it." The man then entered a black car with a distinctive "V" symbol and license plate "U 1496."
• Further Harassment: In the following days, Smyth experienced further harassment, including being nearly run down by a car and being followed by a tall man with white hair. A phone call later that evening warned him to cease his UFO interests.
• "Major White" and UFO-RICE: Approximately a month later, a man claiming to be Major White from "UFO-RICE," a Californian organization, contacted Smyth. White seemed to possess detailed knowledge of Smyth's activities, including information Smyth had not shared publicly, but refused to identify his source.
• Montana Park Incident: Major White later invited Smyth to Montana Park for a UFO sighting, but no UFO appeared.
• The Black Car and the Rifle: Smyth observed the same man with white hair following him again. He also noted a black car, similar to the one previously seen, parking near the police station. This led Smyth to take evasive action and later apply for a permit to carry a rifle.
• Mrs. Caporino's Observation: Mrs. Caporino from Jersey City reported observing a UFO over the sea from the coast of Ocean Grove, New Jersey. She later described a black car with red upholstery stopping near her house on three consecutive evenings around 7:00 PM. Two men emerged, approached her house, and stood in the dark. She was too frightened to open the door or identify them.
• Ron's Investigation: A person named Ron, who wished to remain anonymous, reported investigating the Wanaque Lake area in New Jersey. He noted the closure of a former children's camp and a college due to strange observations. While driving, Ron and his companion observed a car with unusual electronic equipment. Later, a man emerged from a phone booth and ran towards a car that began following them. Ron led the pursuing car down a dead-end street, where it stopped 15 meters behind him.

American "UFO-Business"

This section offers a personal perspective on the commercialization of UFO topics in the USA. The author notes that America is a nation driven by "business," and this mentality has extended to the UFO field. Since Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting, thousands of UFO books and organizations have emerged. The author suggests that much of this literature is written primarily for profit, driven by sensationalism. While acknowledging that genuine UFO research exists, the author expresses concern that the American UFO literature has become overly sensational and less serious, a trend they hope to avoid in Denmark.

"SAUCER NEWS," edited by Gray Barker, is highlighted as an example of a publication that prioritizes UFO business, even featuring an "INTERPLANETARISK AMBASSADØR" on its staff. The author contrasts this with the Danish approach, which they believe is less prone to such low and unserious levels.

Upcoming UFO Event

The magazine announces a major UFO event planned for the summer in Thisted, Denmark, from July 19-25, 1975. The event promises "beautiful nature / many UFO lectures / cozy UFO talk with many other interested people / films etc." Speakers include Karl Hansen on "When fakes are made in UFO cases," Peter A. Hansen on "UFOs in relation to ball lightning phenomena," Flemming Ahrenkiel on "Illumination of theories about the propulsion of UFOs," Ole Henningsen on "How to research UFO cases," Bent Eriksen on "The Fredericia area haunted by UFOs?", and Willy Wegner on "Review of UFO literature and its development since 1950."

Readers are invited to order a detailed program with information on travel, accommodation, and holiday options in Thisted from Willy Wegner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the "Men in Black" phenomenon, the need for cooperation among UFO organizations, and a critical examination of the commercialization of UFO topics, particularly in the United States. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, advocating for serious, unbiased research while being wary of sensationalism and profit-driven agendas. There is a clear desire to foster collaboration within the Danish UFO community and to maintain a high standard of research.