SUFOI Intern - 1996 10

Magazine Overview

Title: SUFOI INTERN
Issue Date: October 1996
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of SUFOI INTERN, the internal newsletter for the Danish UFO organization SUFOI, provides updates on recent activities, sightings, media engagement, and upcoming projects. It is edited by Per Andersen and distributed to the organization's representative body.

SUFOI Headlines

The cover highlights several key news items: reports of 'laser lights' causing a 'phone storm', extensive marketing for SUFOI in January/February, SUFOI's recent media appearances on radio and TV, and a review of the film 'Independence Day'.

Deadlines and Voting

Important deadlines are announced for submissions to 'Næste Intern' (November 10) and 'UFO-Nyt' (January 2). A significant section is dedicated to an 'AFSTEMNING' (Vote) regarding the organization's vision, purpose, and name. Members are urged to return their ballots by October 30, emphasizing that non-returns will be interpreted as a 'no' vote.

Sightings and Investigations

Manche Rapporter (Many Reports): Toke Haunstrup reports that September saw a high number of UFO sighting reports, with a notable increase in contributions to local reporters, indicating improved distribution of cases within the organization.

Projektørlys Giver Telefonstorm (Projector Lights Cause Phone Storm): This article details a major incident in late September 1996 where numerous reports flooded in about lights in the sky near Næstved. Initially described as moving in patterns, these were later identified as powerful projector lights used for a storcenter's 5th-anniversary celebration. The incident generated significant media interest, with SUFOI being contacted by local police stations and providing information to journalists. Emil (EVJ) is credited with handling the influx of calls and media inquiries effectively.

Nordjyske Observationer (North Jutland Observations): Torben Birkeholm notes a lack of reported observations in North Jutland during September, but anticipates a potential increase with the start of the 'night light' season.

Media Interest and PR

Stor Medieinteresse (Great Media Interest): Toke Haunstrup discusses the surge in media attention SUFOI has experienced, largely due to the upcoming premiere of 'The Independence Day' and the Næstved projector light incident. He recounts participating in interviews with regional TV (TV2-Øst), a national radio channel, and a youth magazine ('Vi unge'). He also describes an interview with TV2-Øst regarding observations near Kalvehave, which were also likely projector lights from a disco in Stege.

SUFOI på P3 (SUFOI on P3): Per Andersen writes about an interview on the radio station P3, initiated by a journalist interested in SUFOI's 'Projekt PORT' and analyses of alien appearances. The interview took an unexpected turn when the journalist persistently questioned etiquette regarding alien encounters.

The Independence Day - Da 20th Century Fox Gik Amok: This section reviews the Hollywood blockbuster 'The Independence Day'. The article describes the film's plot, special effects, and themes, noting its similarities to other UFO-related debates such as crashed UFOs, abductions, and Area 51. While acknowledging the film's entertainment value for fans of disaster movies and special effects, the reviewer suggests it may not satisfy those seeking deeper substance, recommending saving the cinema ticket price.

SUFOI Campaigns and Activities

SUFOI-Kampagne i Januar/Februar (SUFOI Campaign in January/February): Per Andersen details an extensive UFO campaign planned in collaboration with the chip company Estrella and their advertising agency Sorensen's. The campaign, running from week 2 to 11 of the following year, involves 2,000 retail stores, featuring UFO-themed displays, posters, and promotional materials. Customers can receive a special edition of 'UFO-Nyt' by sending in Estrella logos, and a 30-minute UFO video is also being produced. A competition to win a trip to Roswell is a key element. SUFOI also secured a sponsorship of 7,500 DKK for their upcoming congress from Estrella.

SUFOI-Aalborg: The Aalborg group met in August and October, discussing SUFOI's upcoming anniversary and planning a local event for February 1998, which will mark 25 years for the Aalborg branch. They plan to incorporate elements from the national organization's 1997 events.

SUFOI-København: The Copenhagen group resumed activities in September. Recent meetings focused on analyzing a video of strange recordings from a space shuttle ('The Age of Flying Saucers') and planning future events, including lectures and a public event in May 1997.

Foredrag (Lecture): Peter Nørgård gave a lecture to approximately 25 students in Hobro on September 12th.

Ansøgning fra Ukraine (Application from Ukraine): SUFOI received an application from the Research Institute on Anomalous Phenomena (RIAP) in Ukraine for a joint publication venture. SUFOI declined due to limited funds and a perceived lack of scientific rigor in RIAP Bulletin, but expressed willingness to support specific research projects in Ukraine.

Member News and Updates

• Nyt om Personer (News About People):
• Birgitte Derlev and Peter Nørgård were married on September 14th. They have a new address in Silkeborg.
• Erling Hegelund has a new address in Odense S.
• Karin Frost has a new phone number.
• Martin Lyck has moved to Copenhagen S.
• Kim Gyldendal received the 'Lærebogspris 1996' (Textbook Prize 1996).

Erling Siger Tak for Denne Gang (Erling Says Thanks for This Time): Erling Hegelund announces his resignation as an active reporter and member of the representative body due to personal commitments, including purchasing a large property and expecting a third child. He reflects positively on his time with SUFOI, maintaining his belief in the spaceship theory.

Telephone Incident: Erling shares a humorous transcript of a phone call where a caller asks about the appearance of ufologists, indicating a lighthearted approach to some inquiries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently highlights SUFOI's active role in investigating UFO sightings, engaging with the media, and conducting public outreach. There is a strong emphasis on factual reporting and analysis, with a stated aim to be neutral and 'non-religious' in its publications. The organization appears to be growing its media presence and expanding its collaborative efforts, both domestically and internationally. The editorial stance is one of diligent research and open communication with its members and the public.

This issue of TJECK MAGAZINE, dated August 1996, delves into the world of ufology, featuring a mix of personal accounts, investigative journalism, and statistical data related to unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

Marianne: The Woman from Another Planet

The cover story focuses on Marianne, a woman from Fyn, Denmark, who claims to be from another planet. The article describes her healing meetings, where she claims to send out positive energies and communicate with extraterrestrial beings through her 'UFO screen.' Marianne believes she is a collaborator with a 'helper' from space and that her abilities stem from this connection. She also discusses her insights into future societal changes, the discovery of the 'cosmetic purse,' and the potential for a cure for AIDS. Marianne asserts that UFOs create balance and are attracted to hyperactive children, whom she likens to individuals with ADHD. She also mentions that the Danish police occasionally contact her for information, though they sometimes disregard her warnings.

UFO Investigation Course

Journalist Lars Fogt attends a UFO investigation course organized by Skandinavisk Ufo Information (SUFOI) in Copenhagen. The course aims to train participants to become UFO report takers, emphasizing a methodical and serious approach to investigating sightings. The instructors, including Peter Nørgaard and SUFOI chairman Per Andersen, explain the classification of UFO phenomena and the importance of detailed reporting. Participants learn interview techniques, focusing on listening to witnesses and gathering precise information. The course includes a practical exercise where participants measure a 'disguised' UFO (a chimney) to simulate real-world investigation.

SUFOI's Approach and Data

Per Andersen outlines SUFOI's stance: 'We don't believe in everything. But we believe that everything should be investigated.' The organization collects and archives all UFO reports. Toke Haunstrup, head of SUFOI's report department, explains that 95% of reported phenomena have natural explanations, such as projectors, meteors, or aircraft, while the remaining 5% are classified as UFOs. The magazine includes statistical data on UFO reports, noting a slight increase in subscribers and detailing financial information for the research and support funds.

IGAP: A Different Perspective

The issue also features the Kolding UFO club, IGAP (formerly Kolding UFO Gruppe), which has a more personal and less theoretical approach to UFOs compared to SUFOI. Egon Dalsgaard, a shoemaker and UFO enthusiast, leads the meetings. IGAP members express skepticism towards official explanations and believe astronauts have encountered aliens. They also hold unconventional views, such as Mars being a green planet and a secret organization controlling global drug trade. The article highlights Kate Sørensen's personal UFO encounter as a key experience that solidified her belief.

Other Mentions and Themes

• Gyldendal Awards: The magazine briefly mentions the recipients of Gyldendal's awards for 1996: Kim Møller Hansen for his literary work and Carsten Schiøler for his graphic design contributions.
• UFO Data: Detailed tables list numerous UFO observations from August to September 1996, including dates, times, locations, durations, colors, and reported characteristics of the phenomena.
• X-Files: The popular TV series 'X-Files' is referenced as an inspiration for some participants in the UFO investigation course.
• Mars Life Debate: The magazine touches upon the ongoing debate about the discovery of life on Mars, dismissing it as political maneuvering.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of UFO phenomena, the personal experiences of witnesses, and the contrasting methodologies of different UFO organizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigation and documentation, while acknowledging the skepticism and ridicule often faced by those who report unusual aerial phenomena. The magazine promotes a serious yet accessible approach to ufology, encouraging readers to share their experiences and contribute to the collective understanding of these unexplained events.

This issue of A-LANGS, dated Saturday, October 5, 1996, from the Danish publisher POLITIKEN, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena and the cultural impact of the science fiction film 'Independence Day.' The cover features a striking image and headlines that draw readers into the world of unexplained aerial phenomena and Hollywood's take on alien encounters.

Kolding UFO Report 1995

The magazine presents a detailed report on UFO sightings in the Kolding area during 1995. Several incidents are documented, including:

• March 19, 1995: A round object observed for about an hour at approximately 50 meters altitude near Bramdrupskov, emitting a light beam.
• May 5, 1995: Witnesses near Lillebælt saw a luminous object moving fast, standing still, and spinning before disappearing towards the east.
• July 29, 1995: A luminous sky was observed over Skærbækværket, illuminated by a rotating light within the cloud.
• November 21, 1995: Two lights were seen moving from the fjord towards the northwest near Strandhuse, Kolding, causing an energy stream to pass through the witness.
• November 18, 1995: An oblong, sharply defined luminous object was observed moving up and down and then in a straight line near Seest.
• December 8, 1995: Two round luminous discs of different sizes were seen gliding slowly past windows near Nordre Kollegium, Kolding.
• December 11, 1995: A formation of ten to twelve luminous discs was observed moving quickly towards the east at a high altitude over Kolding harbor.
• July 31, 1996: A round object with blinking lights was observed moving southwest over the city near Haderslevvej/Carl Plougsvej.

The reports are compiled by IGAP, Kolding.

'Independence Day' Film Analysis

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the blockbuster film 'Independence Day.'

Production and Themes

Producers Dean Devlin and Roland Emmerich describe the film as a 'popcorn film' that taps into the American tradition of people uniting against an external enemy. Despite its commercial success, the film faced criticism from outlets like The New Yorker for being overly patriotic and downplaying the destruction caused by the aliens. Devlin defends the film, noting that it includes 13 minutes of mourning and explores characters' emotions.

Will Smith's Perspective

Actor Will Smith, who plays a lead role, expresses his enthusiasm for the film, calling it a 'fed role' that allows him to express a range of emotions. He describes the experience of filming with extensive special effects, often being unsure of what was happening around him. Smith notes that while the film is a fantasy, audiences react strongly to the destruction of cities, finding a sense of catharsis.

Bill Pullman as President

Bill Pullman portrays the US President in the film, a young, virile leader with a past as a pilot. He recounts the unusual experience of watching the film with President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary. Pullman discusses his approach to the role, drawing inspiration from figures like John F. Kennedy and Clinton himself, while also noting the film's 'boyish enthusiasm' and its resemblance to classic 1940s adventure films.

Political Commentary

The film is analyzed as a form of political commentary, reflecting anxieties about America's global standing and its role in the world. The magazine suggests that the film, by presenting a heroic American president defeating alien invaders on Independence Day, offers a sense of national pride and reaffirms America's perceived role as a global savior. The article contrasts this with earlier science fiction films that carried anti-war messages.

Technical Aspects

Roland Emmerich highlights the use of digital technology in 'Independence Day,' noting its advancement and increasing affordability, which he believes will democratize filmmaking in the future.

UFOs and Crop Circles in Denmark

The magazine also touches upon UFO-related phenomena within Denmark:

Crop Circles in Dybbøl

An article discusses mysterious patterns found in a cornfield near Dybbøl, Denmark. While initially speculated to be UFO-related, an astronomer, Mogens Winther, concludes that the patterns were likely created by pranksters using a lawn roller and measuring tape. He warns that such incidents can encourage imitation and negatively impact crop yields.

UFOs in Religious Texts

One piece explores the idea that ancient religious texts, including the Quran and Sanskrit scriptures, mention the existence of beings from other planets and flying vehicles ('vimanas'), suggesting that the concept of UFOs is not new.

Laser Shows and UFO Panic

Several newspaper clippings report on incidents where laser light shows, particularly from Næstved Storcenter, were mistaken for UFOs, causing public alarm and numerous calls to the police.

The Roswell Incident and Tourism

The magazine features an article about Roswell, New Mexico, and its connection to the alleged 1947 UFO crash.

Roswell's UFO Culture

Roswell has embraced its UFO notoriety, with its museums attracting significant tourism, especially following the release of 'Independence Day.' The article notes the town's mayor and businesses actively participate in promoting the UFO theme.

Eyewitness Accounts and Skepticism

Personal accounts, like that of Frankie Rowe, whose father claimed to have seen a UFO and extraterrestrials in 1947, are presented. However, the article also includes skeptical viewpoints, such as those of author William Barrett, who suggests that the Roswell incident was a government cover-up related to surveillance of Soviet nuclear tests and that the UFO myth is perpetuated for business and showmanship.

Shifting Attitudes

Deon Crosby, director of the International UFO Museum and Research Center in Roswell, observes a shift in public attitude, with more people open to the possibility of extraterrestrial life and willing to share their own experiences, unlike in the past when they feared being ridiculed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of popular culture (especially science fiction films), public fascination with the unexplained (UFOs, aliens), and societal anxieties. There's a clear interest in documenting UFO sightings and investigating their potential causes, ranging from the mundane (laser shows, pranksters) to the extraordinary (alien visitation). The magazine also delves into the political and cultural implications of these themes, particularly as reflected in American cinema. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, while also critically examining media portrayals and public perceptions, as seen in the analysis of 'Independence Day' and the Roswell incident.

This issue of Avis udklip, dated August-October 1996, is a collection of newspaper clippings from various Danish publications, focusing primarily on UFO sightings, related phenomena, and popular culture.

Key Articles and Reports

"En stav og en 23 E ring fra rummet" (A rod and a 23 E ring from space)

This article, from Vendsyssel Tidende (August 26, 1996), recounts the story of Gösta Carlsson, who in 1946 found a transparent rod and a golden ring in a clearing near Ängelholm, Sweden. Carlsson claims these objects were thrown from a UFO. The items were displayed at an annual meeting of UFO-Sverige. The ring is described as an alloy of copper and gold with an epidote stone, while the rod contains quartz, topaz, diamond, and other unknown, hard minerals. Carlsson states the objects were examined by a US company.

"UFO var eh glaskugle 13E" (UFO was a glass sphere 13E)

Published in BT (August 13, 1996), this piece reports on a mysterious sphere found seven meters underground by Russian workers in Kasimov in the summer of 1983. Initially thought to be extraterrestrial, Russian researchers, with assistance from the Danish UFO organization SUFOI, determined it to be a glass sphere approximately 200 years old, likely from Russian glass production and possibly used as a toy. The article notes that its presence seven meters underground remains unexplained.

"Flere rekorder til Independence Day" (More records for Independence Day)

This article from BT (October 3, 1996) focuses on the box office success of the movie "Independence Day." It highlights the film's record-breaking performance in Denmark even before its premiere on October 11th, particularly in Copenhagen cinemas like Imperial, Palads, and Palladium. The article compares its success to previous record-holders like "The Lion King" and "Goldeneye." It also mentions that in Germany, "Independence Day" surpassed "Jurassic Park," and in Norway, it broke the opening weekend record. Coincidentally, the article notes that around the time of the movie's promotion, several people in Slagelse and surrounding areas reported seeing UFOs, humorously questioning if this was part of the film's marketing.

"Mystik i marken" (Mystery in the field)

From Jydske Vestkysten (August 11, 1996), this article describes a mysterious, unexplained crop circle discovered in a cornfield in Dybbøl, Denmark. Anne Mathiesen reported a large circular pattern, about 20 meters in diameter, connected by paths to two smaller circles. She believes it was made by unknown, mystical forces, not animals or humans. The police were notified and contacted Skandinavisk UFO Information. Astronomer Mogens Winther from Sønderborg suggests possible geological explanations related to the area's glacial moraine or theories involving whirlwinds. The article also references the widespread crop circle phenomenon in England during the 1980s, where two pranksters, Douglas Bower and David Chorley, claimed responsibility, though their explanation was not widely accepted.

"UFO-manipulation"

This piece from Skive Folkeblad (August 19, 1996) discusses the media's focus on science fiction films about alien invasions. It suggests that these films, planned and produced in the US, are followed by Russian scientists and cosmonauts openly discussing UFOs as a reality. The article speculates on the reasons for potential suppression of UFO information, including fears from the oil industry about free energy, religions fearing a more enlightened life form, and the military fearing obsolescence. It concludes that the truth about UFOs will be revealed gradually.

"Sandheden i universet" (The truth in the universe) - Portrait of Brian E. Møller

This portrait from an unknown publication features Brian E. Møller, a 21-year-old local representative for Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI). Møller states that SUFOI finds natural explanations for 90% of reported UFO sightings, such as satellites or aircraft. He acknowledges that some cases have compelling information but remain unexplained. He recounts an incident where he investigated a reported light in the sky, only to find it was a spotlight at a local fairground. Møller expresses a fascination with mystery and science fiction, and his career aspiration is to be a spaceship captain.

"Var det UFOer?" (Were they UFOs?)

This letter to the editor in SØNDAG (issue 21, 1996) describes a family's sighting of three "red stars" that approached their house near a steep cliff in Denmark. The objects, described as red balloons with an orange aura and about 1.50 meters in diameter, hovered near their windows for about half an hour before flying away. The Danish UFO association could not provide an explanation.

"Drømmetydning" (Dream Interpretation)

A reader named Kirsten asks for aids beyond books for her dream group. The response suggests "Drømmekort" (Dream Cards) by Strephon Kaplan-Williams, which are described as a qualified and effective tool for understanding dreams, containing over 5000 symbols and tasks.

"Astrologi" (Astrology)

A reader named H.S. born on November 23, 1972, at 5:10 AM, asks if they are a Sagittarius or Scorpio and for information on finding an astrologer and costs. The answer confirms H.S. is a Sagittarius, born just on the cusp. It advises on finding astrologers and the cost range for personal versus computer-generated horoscopes.

"Clairvoyance"

This section addresses a reader who has been in love with a married man for two years. The advice suggests that the man is likely happy with his wife and children and that the reader should seek a new job and move on, as a new, non-married partner is expected in the future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of clippings are UFO sightings, the search for explanations (both scientific and paranormal), and the intersection of these phenomena with popular culture, particularly movies. The editorial stance, as inferred from the selection of articles and the inclusion of different perspectives (from eyewitness accounts to skeptical analysis and even humor), appears to be one of open inquiry into the unexplained, while also acknowledging the role of media and popular culture in shaping perceptions of UFOs. There's a clear Danish focus, with many reports originating from Danish newspapers and referencing Danish UFO organizations.