SUFOI Intern - 1997 12

Magazine Overview

Title: SUFOI INTERN
Issue: DECEMBER 1997
Publisher: Skandinavisk UFO Information
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of SUFOI Intern, the internal newsletter for SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information), dated December 1997, covers organizational news, a significant debate regarding the direction of the organization, and a travel report from an international UFO conference.

SUFOI HEADLINES !

• The cover highlights several key points:
• SUFOI is seeking funding for a tip service.
• Brian Møller issues sharp criticism of SUFOI.
• A travel report from Brazil is featured.

Editorial and Administrative Information

The newsletter is edited by Per Andersen, with contact details provided for mail and email. The editorial board extends holiday wishes to all SUFOI members and representatives.

Deadlines

Upcoming deadlines are noted: Next Intern issue on January 10th, and UFO-Nyt issue number 1 on January 2nd.

SUFOI on DR - By Per Andersen

Per Andersen reports on SUFOI's participation in a children's television program on DR (Danish Broadcasting Corporation). SUFOI assisted the program's production by helping to organize the segment and encouraging children to send in their UFO-related questions and stories. Although the segment was brief and framed within a science fiction context, SUFOI was effectively promoted. Toke stepped in at short notice to represent SUFOI on the program when Per Andersen fell ill.

SUFOI Seeks Support for Tip Service - By Toke Haunstrup

Toke Haunstrup outlines a proposal to produce a 24-page, four-color booklet to be distributed to libraries and similar institutions. This booklet would explain observable celestial phenomena. An application for 76,000 DKK in funding has been submitted to the Ministry of Education through the state lottery's surplus funds. The application aims for a total print run of 15,000 copies. A decision on the funding is expected in May 1998.

New Video - By Per Andersen

Per Andersen announces the acquisition of the movie "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" after a long search. He found it in London and offers to lend it out to SUFOI members, noting that it is without subtitles.

News About People

Brian Møller Resigns from Representative Council - By Per Andersen: Brian Møller has immediately resigned from the representative council and his role as report recorder. His reasons are detailed in the 'Debate' section.

Thanks from Per Borgaard - By Per Andersen: Per Borgaard expresses his gratitude for being appointed an honorary member of SUFOI, stating he was surprised and honored by the gesture.

Email Addresses

A list of representative email addresses is provided for future reference, with a request for members to send their addresses to Per Andersen (PA).

THE DRY NUMBERS

Membership Statistics 1997: The total membership is 713, a decrease of 33 from the previous year. Initial giro payments for 1997 are listed by initials. The Research Fund stands at 3,686 DKK, and the Support Fund at 11,311 DKK.

Cash on Hand (as of October): Detailed breakdowns of 'Spent', 'Budget', and 'Rest' are provided for various individuals' accounts, indicating financial activity within the organization.

DEBATE

TO SUFOI - By Brian Møller: Brian Møller explains his resignation, stating he sees no future for Skandinavisk UFO Information and feels the organization has become 100% PR with 0% UFO work. He criticizes the use of terms like 'unknown aerial phenomena' instead of 'UFO', believing it dilutes the core mission. Møller also critiques the magazine UFO-Nyt, citing specific articles that he feels misinterpret evidence (e.g., the Albertslund film) or unfairly judge witnesses (e.g., the Norwegian UFO photo case and the Fyn observation). He argues that SUFOI is becoming more like a psychological bureau than a UFO research organization. He expresses disappointment that the magazine focuses on debunking or questioning witnesses rather than investigating phenomena objectively. Møller concludes by stating that while he is not finished with UFO work, he is finished with it within SUFOI's framework, hoping for a less self-destructive course for the organization.

RESPONSE FROM PER ANDERSEN: Per Andersen acknowledges Brian Møller's resignation and respects his decision. He addresses Møller's criticisms, stating that the term 'UFO' is not a taboo word within SUFOI and is used frequently in their publications. He clarifies SUFOI's definition of a UFO, emphasizing that 'unknown aerial phenomenon' is a synonym. Andersen defends the handling of the Albertslund case, stating that significant time was invested in its analysis and that while SUFOI does not claim to do scientific work, the case exemplifies their serious and factual approach. He also highlights other SUFOI projects like Project PORT and PADUR, which have received international recognition. Andersen points out that Møller had opportunities to participate more actively in SUFOI's work and debates but did not, despite being invited to projects like PORT. He also notes that Møller has not contributed significantly to internal publications or meetings. Andersen defends UFO-Nyt's editorial policy, stating that the goal is to publish quality content that they can stand behind, not necessarily to maximize subscribers. He refutes Møller's claims about the Norwegian UFO photo and the Fyn case, asserting that Møller has misinterpreted the articles and that SUFOI does not label witnesses as senile or mentally ill. He clarifies that SUFOI investigates observations based on experience and evidence, not by psychoanalyzing witnesses. Andersen concludes by acknowledging that Møller's letter prompts reflection on SUFOI's communication methods.

TRAVEL REPORT

MY TRIP TO BRAZIL - By Per Andersen: Per Andersen recounts his trip to Brazil for a conference. He describes the challenges of travel, including a waitlist for a domestic flight and a severe cold. He arrived in Brasilia, the capital, where the conference was held. He details his accommodation issues, initially being placed on a waiting list for a shared room but ultimately securing his own. He notes the high temperatures and the recommendation for high SPF sunscreen. Andersen provides a brief history of Brasilia, a planned city built in the 1950s-60s. The conference featured 64 presentations, with 34 being international. He observed an exhibition that included New Age items, crystals, and a photo exhibition featuring alleged UFO photos, including fakes like the 'Swedish hubcap'. He notes the conference's strong religious undertones and the presentation of UFOs as fact without question.

Conference Details: The conference was sponsored by the 'Legion of Good Will' (LBV), a cross-religious movement. Andersen describes a tour of the LBV's 'Temple of Good Will', which he found to be a spiritual and extraterrestrial-focused facility. He mentions attending presentations by various speakers, including Michael Lindemann, who discussed government secrecy regarding UFOs; Donald Ware, who spoke about extraterrestrial contact and messages; and Glennys Mackay, who shared experiences of alien abduction and healing. He also mentions Peter Davenport, who leads the National UFO Reporting Center and discussed recent UFO sightings from Phoenix, though Andersen found Davenport's views on government conspiracy theories to be extreme. Stanton Friedman presented his usual arguments about the Roswell crash, which Andersen found biased and manipulative. Colin Andrews, a crop circle expert, discussed the spiritual and philosophical implications of his work, which Andersen felt was unrelated to UFOs. Emanuel Paranhos presented cases from Brazil, including alleged abductions, which Andersen identified as likely meteors. He notes that ufology in Spanish-speaking South America is more critical and less religious than in Brazil.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights a significant internal debate within SUFOI regarding its focus and methods, with Brian Møller expressing strong dissatisfaction with the organization's perceived shift towards public relations over substantive UFO research. Per Andersen, in his response, defends SUFOI's work and its definition of UFOs, while also acknowledging the need for better communication. The travel report from Brazil offers a contrasting perspective, showcasing a conference where UFOs are presented as fact within a spiritual and religious context, which the author, Per Andersen, views with a critical eye, particularly regarding the lack of scientific rigor and the prevalence of alleged hoaxes. The newsletter also touches upon the financial status of SUFOI and upcoming publication deadlines.

This issue of UFO-Nyt, dated November 1997, features a critical examination of UFO phenomena, conspiracy theories, and the psychology behind belief. The magazine covers a UFO conference held at Lyngby Storcenter, Denmark, organized by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) to mark its 40th anniversary. It presents a range of perspectives, from believers and researchers to skeptics and academics.

Key Articles and Discussions

David Jacobs and the Nature of Abductions

David Jacobs, described as a serious researcher who became involved in abduction cases, presented his views on how telepathy plays a crucial role. He speculated about the societal structure of extraterrestrials, suggesting a lack of cultural and aesthetic values, which might explain their genetic interest in humans. His analysis was based on the consistent accounts of abductees.

Budd Hopkins and the Linda Cortile Case

Budd Hopkins discussed the Linda Cortile abduction case, which he considered the best-documented. However, the author noted that Hopkins kept some witnesses private and that his presentation was filled with inconsistencies, making it difficult for research purposes. The author also observed Hopkins to be self-centered and a poor listener, suggesting he might unduly influence abductees, raising concerns about his role as a therapist for those with abduction syndrome.

Derrel Sims and 'Transplants'

Derrel Sims, an American researcher, presented findings about alleged extraterrestrial 'transplants' found in humans. Sims, who claims to have been abducted himself, used an ultraviolet lamp during the conference to examine young Brazilian girls for invisible marks. The article points out that such UV light is commonly used by doctors for skin conditions and questions Sims's reluctance to share his full laboratory analysis results with scientific journals, suggesting a motive to profit from a forthcoming book.

Jesse Marcel Junior and Wendelle C. Stevens

Jesse Marcel Junior, son of the Roswell incident figure, expressed a skeptical view on UFOs, stating he didn't know what they were but believed there was definitely something unknown. Wendelle C. Stevens was discussed in relation to the famous Viborg photo, with the author noting that Stevens's collection might still include fabricated images from Billy Meier.

The Viborg Photo and Billy Meier

Wendelle C. Stevens was mentioned in connection with the 'famous photo from Viborg.' The author promised to send him an article and analysis of the case, but expressed doubt that this would prevent Stevens from continuing to feature it in his collections, which are noted to be filled with Billy Meier's hoaxed images.

The Stigmatic Bongiovanni

At a dinner, the author met an Italian stigmatic named Bongiovanni, who bore stigmata resembling Jesus's wounds. Bongiovanni claimed to receive messages from extraterrestrials about world peace.

Post-Conference Declaration

Following the conference, Brazilian UFO groups issued a statement to their government, asserting that Earth had been visited by alien spacecraft for 50 years and urging the government to take the matter seriously. Many speakers signed this declaration, though the author, having already departed, did not. The author protested when a scanned version of the document was distributed online without their signature.

UFO Conference at Lyngby Storcenter

The magazine extensively covers a UFO conference held at Lyngby Storcenter, Denmark, organized by Skandinavisk UFO Information (SUFOI) for its 40th anniversary. The event featured international experts like Dr. Richard Haines from NASA, discussing UFO observations by professional pilots, and British author Jenny Randles, who spoke about the 'Men in Black.'

The 'Men in Black'

Jenny Randles discussed the phenomenon of 'Men in Black,' described as mysterious individuals who allegedly threaten UFO witnesses into silence and confiscate evidence. She suggested they might be agents of secret government organizations or foreign powers trying to suppress information about advanced technology for weapon production.

The Vejle Car Stalling Incident

A significant case discussed was the 'Vejle car stalling incident' from 1995. A young man driving near Vejle experienced his car's wipers activating on their own, dashboard indicators going haywire, and the car stalling under a powerful light from the sky. The object was described as a circular craft, 12-15 meters in diameter, with powerful lights. This case was labeled 'unresolved' by SUFOI, with 10% of their annual 300-400 cases remaining unexplained.

Mikael Rothstein's Skeptical View

Dr. Mikael Rothstein, a Ph.D. in Religious History from the University of Copenhagen, presented a critical perspective, viewing UFOs as a 'collective idea' and a 'social existence' rather than necessarily physical objects. This contrasted with the beliefs of many attendees and speakers.

Kent Rose's Experience

Kent Rose recounted seeing a triangular flying object with his friend seven years prior, asserting his belief despite potential ridicule.

SUFOI's Evolving Stance

Per Andersen, chairman of SUFOI, explained the organization's shift towards a more critical and skeptical approach. He stated that 90-95% of reported UFO sightings have natural explanations, often involving misinterpretations of spotlights, planets, or aircraft. However, SUFOI does not dismiss the remaining 5-10% of unexplained cases, preferring to investigate them further rather than immediately attributing them to extraterrestrial origins. Andersen believes that psychological and sociological factors play a significant role in UFO beliefs, suggesting that people may need to believe in something alternative in a secularized world.

Conspiracy Theories in the USA

An article titled 'The evil pact with the mars people' explores various conspiracy theories prevalent in the USA. These include claims that the US government has a pact with aliens for technology in exchange for abductions, that Timothy McVeigh was an FBI agent, and that secret organizations like MJ-12 control the government. The article links the rise of these theories to a fundamental distrust of government institutions, exacerbated by events like Watergate and Iran-Contra, and the increasing complexity of the globalized world.

'Men in Black' Phenomenon

Jenny Randles, a UFO expert, discussed the 'Men in Black' phenomenon, stating that since the late 1940s, these figures have attempted to silence UFO witnesses. She described them as usually two men in black suits arriving in a large black car, questioning witnesses and attempting to discredit their sightings. Randles believes these individuals are part of secret government organizations aiming to weaponize advanced technology.

UFO Sightings Database

A section details UFO sightings reported between November 1st and November 30th, 1997, including dates, times, locations (postcodes and towns), duration, colors, and observer status. It also includes a legend for status codes used by the reporting system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine showcases a spectrum of views on UFOs, from detailed accounts of alleged abductions and sightings to critical analyses and skeptical perspectives. SUFOI's evolving stance towards a more critical and evidence-based approach is a prominent theme. The issue also highlights the psychological and sociological factors that may contribute to belief in UFOs and conspiracy theories, particularly in the context of American culture and distrust of authority. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging unexplained phenomena while emphasizing rigorous investigation and skepticism towards sensational claims.

This issue of the Danish newspaper Viborg Stifts Folkeblad, dated November 19, 1997, features articles on unexplained phenomena, specifically UFO sightings and crop circles, under the headline "Der er mere mellem himmel og jord" (There is more between heaven and earth) by Birte Olufsen. A second article, "Sussi & Leo er landet" (Sussi & Leo have landed) by Kim Serup Rasmussen, discusses the popular Danish duo Sussi & Leo and their connection to the international UFO organization IGAP.

"Der er mere mellem himmel og jord" by Birte Olufsen

The article begins by highlighting a recent UFO conference held in Denmark with international participation, where serious natural science researchers discussed the phenomenon of 'flying saucers'. It humorously contrasts the skepticism of many Earthlings with the imagined reactions of Martians to human behavior and technology, such as their 'flying saucers' being large, noisy metal boxes. The piece notes that interest in spaceships, mysterious objects, and extraterrestrial life has not diminished, evidenced by popular culture and reports received by Sufoi (Skandinavisk UFO Information).

UFO Observations in Denmark

Scandinavian UFO Information (Sufoi) is presented as an organization that registers and scientifically investigates UFO sightings in Denmark. While 90% of observations are explained by natural causes, the remaining 10% remain mysterious. One such unexplained case is a 'car stalling' incident from autumn 1995 near Give, Denmark. A young man driving alone with his dog experienced his car's instruments fluctuating wildly and the engine dying. A bright light with surrounding smaller lights descended from above the car, causing it to stop. The object then moved away quickly, and the car was able to restart. The man was reportedly very upset, and his parents confirmed his distress. Torben Birkeholm of Sufoi and Asle Nielsen, head of the alarm center at Sufoi in Jutland, believe the witness's account is authentic. The incident is classified as a 'close encounter of the second kind', where the object was within 100 meters and details like windows were visible.

Another case mentioned is a 'close encounter of the third kind' where a man was allegedly abducted by an indefinable entity and lost an hour of his memory. Witnesses for the car stalling incident were sought but not found.

The Phenomenon of Crop Circles

The article then shifts to the phenomenon of crop circles. In mid-July 1997, a farmer in Ålum, Denmark (between Bjerringbro and Randers), discovered a large pattern of three circles, two connected, covering about 200 square meters. Three weeks later, a new pattern appeared, described as a 40-meter long magnifying glass with a circle and a rectangle on each side. A professor specializing in Native Americans recognized some of the symbols as Native American. Sufoi investigates these sites. The article notes that the crop is typically laid down in a clockwise direction. While some dismiss them as pranks, the precision and global occurrence of similar patterns are questioned. The magnifying glass symbol is interpreted as 'Big Brother is watching you'. The crop circle phenomenon has been known in England for 10-15 years and has also appeared in Denmark over the last three to four summers, including on Lolland and near Kalundborg. The article mentions that witnesses have reported seeing crop circles appear in a very short time, making it difficult to attribute them to human activity alone.

"Sussi & Leo er landet" by Kim Serup Rasmussen

This article focuses on the Danish musical duo Sussi & Leo, who have achieved significant popularity, particularly with the bakery association (Bagermesterforeningen) which has promoted them. The article describes a scene at Hotel Plaza in Copenhagen where the duo is greeted by a large press contingent. Their success is attributed to their charisma and ability to entertain, having performed at their establishment, Skansen in Skagen, for thousands of evenings since 1980. The promotion by the bakery association has reportedly increased sales of baked goods by 25 percent. The duo is considering a move to England, but prefers to return home.

Connection to UFOs and IGAP

Interestingly, the article reveals Sussi and Leo's long-standing involvement with the international UFO organization IGAP (International UFO Organization), where they have been members for twenty years. IGAP had previously sued the FBI to release 2000 documents related to UFO activities. Leo is credited with helping translate these documents into Danish. The article concludes by stating that one no longer risks ridicule for laughing at the duo's musical talent, as the whole country is now amused by them.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly leans into the unexplained and the paranormal, presenting UFO sightings and crop circles as genuine mysteries worthy of investigation. The tone is generally open-minded, with Sufoi presented as a credible source for information on these phenomena. The article uses a blend of serious reporting and lighthearted commentary, particularly in the comparison between human and alien perspectives on UFOs. The inclusion of the Sussi & Leo article, while seemingly unrelated, cleverly ties into the UFO theme through their affiliation with IGAP, suggesting a broader interest in the subject matter beyond just sightings and circles.

The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a willingness to explore phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding, encouraging readers to consider that "there is more between heaven and earth."