SUFOI Intern - 1999 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SUFOI INTERN
Issue Date: February 1999
Publisher: SUFOI (Skandinavisk UFO Information)
Country of Publication: Denmark
Language: Danish

This issue of SUFOI INTERN, a newsletter for SUFOI's representatives, focuses heavily on the investigation and subsequent media and public reaction to a mysterious light sighting in Sønderjylland on New Year's morning 1999. The magazine also touches upon organizational news, financial reports, and internal debates within the UFO community.

Projector Lights Spark Debate in Sønderjylland

The lead article, "PROJEKTØRLYS SPØGER (STADIGVÆK) I SØNDERJYLLAND" by Toke Haunstrup, details the events following a New Year's night sighting of a bright light in Sønderjylland. Initially, SUFOI identified the source as a projector light from a discotheque in Fole, but this was later corrected to a discotheque named Josephine in Rødding. SUFOI issued a press release on January 1st, which was covered by Jydske Vestkysten on January 3rd and 5th. The case gained traction when journalist Bent Andersen of Jydske Vestkysten wrote about a woman's experience of being followed by two luminous objects from Vejen to Ribe. While SUFOI suggests this was likely the same projector light, Andersen's article did not explore this possibility.

The situation escalated when IGAP, represented by Egon Dalsgaard and H.C. Petersen, became involved. Dalsgaard suggested to the journalist that the objects were 'flying telemeter discs' from 'mother ships', dismissing the projector light explanation. This led to a public meeting organized by Jydske Vestkysten's Vejen editorial office, attended by 120 people, where Dalsgaard and Petersen presented their views.

The author expresses disappointment that a simple explanation like projector lights was overshadowed by more sensational claims, attributing this to a combination of a naive journalist and local enthusiasts. He notes that discussions with Bent Andersen did not convince him of any lack of critical reporting on his part. SUFOI's attempts to provide a rational explanation were, in the author's view, overshadowed by the more dramatic IGAP narrative.

Organizational News and Activities

LARS STOPPER SOM WEB-MASTER: Lars has stepped down as SUFOI's webmaster due to work pressure. He will be succeeded by Flemming Rasmussen. The organization expresses gratitude for Lars's efforts in building the website.

SUFOI PÅ TV2: Toke Haunstrup was interviewed on TV2's youth program 'Puls' on February 17, 1999, discussing common UFO-related questions.

'ÅBEN MØDE' MED BESØG UDEFRA: An open meeting is planned for March 13, 1999, in Copenhagen, featuring speakers Mikael Rothstein and Willy Wegner, followed by a discussion on SUFOI's stance on the spaceship theory.

SUFOI-AALBORG KIGGER OP!: The Aalborg branch continues to hold regular meetings and has seen an influx of new members. Plans include an outdoor excursion to Blokhus for stargazing.

FOREDRAG I NORDJYLLAND: Toke Haunstrup has given several lectures in Aalborg and surrounding areas, covering UFO phenomena.

AVISUDKLIP HAR FUNDET SIT NYE HJEM: Per Andersen has archived a large collection of UFO-related newspaper clippings dating back to the 1950s, which is now available for research.

Financial Report and Deadlines

REGNSKAB: RESULTAT JULI TIL DECEMBER 1998: The financial report indicates satisfactory income and expenditure, with most costs within budget. The budget for PR and office materials has been fully utilized.

DEADLINES: Key deadlines are listed for the next issue of SUFOI Intern (April 10, 1999), SUFOI Nyhedsbrev (April 15, 1999), and UFO-Nyt (April 3, 1999).

OBSERVATIONSLISTE MANGLER: The observation list for January 1999 is delayed due to time constraints and will appear in the next issue.

Other Articles and Features

ROSWELL-VIDEOEN AFSLØRET SOM FUP (OMSIDER?!): The article reports that the Roswell autopsy video has been exposed as a hoax, fabricated by Englishmen, as reported by Danish media like BT and Politiken. Lars Thomas was interviewed by Politiken, noting the timing of the revelation coinciding with Charles Berlitz's book.

GRATIS!: Per Andersen is offering old UFO-related materials, including magazines, research project archives, audio and video archives, and reports, for new homes.

BO FYLDER 40 ÅR: The newsletter congratulates Bo on his 40th birthday.

Debate Section

ET PAR KOMMENTARER TIL TOKE (Af Per Andersen): Per Andersen argues that SUFOI's mission statement, which implicitly equates the spaceship hypothesis with other theories and states that SUFOI does not favor or reject any theory, needs revision. He believes SUFOI should acknowledge that some theories are more probable than others to advance understanding of UFO phenomena. He suggests that if SUFOI is to distance itself from the spaceship hypothesis, it should be announced as major news.

DEBATINDLÆG - Af Torben Birkeholm: Torben Birkeholm responds to Toke Haunstrup's editorial regarding the spaceship hypothesis. Birkeholm agrees that the spaceship hypothesis is not the only or most obvious explanation for UFO sightings. However, he disagrees with the assertion that SUFOI does not address the discrepancy between practical experiences and the spaceship paradigm. He argues that SUFOI's publications have consistently pointed to alternative explanations, including psychological and sociological models, and that many members have criticized this line, with some leaving the organization over it. He believes SUFOI has moved beyond the spaceship hypothesis as a paradigm, and that this is a strength, though it must still acknowledge the public's association of UFOs with spaceships.

Reader Letters

Læserbrev til Jydske Vestkysten: This letter, likely from SUFOI, reiterates the explanation of the New Year's light sighting as projector/laser lights from discotheques. It addresses the media's focus on 'observation ships' and IGAP's claims, emphasizing SUFOI's conclusion that the phenomena were terrestrial. The letter also discusses the difficulty in judging distances at night and how perceived proximity can be misleading.

Reader Mail (Helle Loyche): A reader, Helle Loyche, writes to express appreciation for the SUFOI website and requests a free sample of the UFO-Nyt magazine for a school project. She also compliments Kim Møller Hansen on his books.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO sightings, the role of media in shaping public perception, and internal organizational debates about how to approach and explain UFO phenomena. SUFOI's stance, as articulated by Toke Haunstrup and debated by Per Andersen and Torben Birkeholm, is to maintain a critical yet open mind, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the public's fascination with the spaceship hypothesis. The organization aims to provide a nuanced perspective, distinguishing between evidence-based conclusions and speculative theories, and to avoid jumping to conclusions without thorough investigation. The editorial stance leans towards rational explanations and a scientific approach, while acknowledging the need to address the more sensational aspects that capture public attention.

This issue of SUFOI Skandinavisk UFO Information, dated January 1999, is a collection of articles and news clippings primarily focused on debunking UFO myths, promoting skepticism, and addressing public anxieties surrounding the millennium bug (Y2K).

Key Articles and Features

UFO-Nyt: A Letter of Appreciation and Information Exchange

A letter from Peter Nørgaard, Vice Chairman of SUFOI, to Helle Løyche thanks her for her praise and UFO drawings. He mentions forwarding her praise to Kim Møller Hansen and is sending her UFO information material along with a free sample of UFO-Nyt. He also requests a photocopy of her project if she is willing and able.

Fremtidsrejser og ædelstene (Future Travels and Gemstones)

This section previews a series of lectures covering topics such as past-life regression, the influence of positive and negative thoughts, spiritual development, trance, and the properties of crystals. Notably, Kurt Abildskov is mentioned as speaking about UFOs, and Grethe Buhr about crystals. Kim Pedersen will discuss reincarnation and karma.

Grøn tur i vintermørket (Green Tour in the Winter Darkness)

This article announces an unusual evening tour led by UFO expert Ole Henningsen near Næsgaard. While officially a 'green tour' guided by nature communicator Alice Foged, Henningsen will share his experiences and local UFO reports, aiming to create a sense of mystery and perhaps fear among participants as they observe lights in the night sky. The tour starts at 7:00 PM at the Næsgaard Agersbrugsskole parking lot, and attendees are advised to bring warm clothing, practical footwear, and a flashlight.

Engle og UFO'er (Angels and UFOs)

This piece highlights the spring program of the spiritual association Stjernedrys. It includes lectures on angels, UFOs, clairvoyance, and other spiritual topics. Stuart Peacock will share his personal experiences with angels, and Kurt Abildskov, a pilot, will discuss other life forms and unidentified objects with photographic evidence. Teosofen Kim Pedersen will also present on spiritual matters and clairvoyance.

Ondskabsfulde kloner uden nissehue (Malicious Clones Without a Santa Hat)

This main article critically examines the phenomenon of UFO sightings, particularly in the USA. It questions why UFO encounters, especially those involving physical contact (third kind), are most frequently reported by white Americans. The author, Toni Rasmussen, proposes a theory linking these reports to European folklore, suggesting that tales of elves and hidden folk from European immigrant traditions might have been reinterpreted as alien encounters. The article contrasts this with the lack of such reports from other ethnic groups, like African slaves.

It further discusses how 'alien encounter' narratives share common elements with folklore, such as 'experimentation' and 'sexual escapades.' The article then shifts to a film review of Abel Ferrara's 'Body Snatchers,' a remake of the classic sci-fi film, noting its themes of paranoia and the unknown, which are compared to Cold War anxieties.

Y2K - dåsemad eller dommedag (Y2K - Canned Food or Doomsday)

This section reports on the growing panic in the USA regarding the Year 2000 computer bug (Y2K). It details how Americans are stocking up on canned food, water, generators, and even weapons, with some planning to move to isolated rural areas. The article mentions the rise in sales of survival gear and quotes individuals preparing for potential societal collapse. It also touches upon the fear of computer system failures leading to disruptions in utilities and potential public unrest. The piece notes that while officials are trying to reassure the public, the fear is palpable, with some even connecting Y2K to apocalyptic prophecies.

Sandheden er ikke derude (The Truth Is Not Out There)

This article, along with others on pages 9 and 10, focuses on debunking the famous 'Roswell alien autopsy' film. It reveals that the film, widely believed by UFO enthusiasts to be genuine footage of a 1947 alien autopsy, was actually a hoax filmed in a barn in Southern England in 1994. The 'alien' was a 12-year-old boy, and the 'autopsy' involved props like a puppet head and chicken livers. The article names the filmmakers, Keith Bateman and Andy Price-Watts, and their associate Ray Santilli, who admitted to knowing the film was fake.

The piece highlights the disappointment and anger of UFO fans upon learning the truth, with some filmmakers receiving threats. It quotes zoologist Lars Thomsen, a scientific consultant for SUFOI, explaining that such myths often replace religious beliefs for some individuals and that challenging them can provoke strong reactions. Thomsen also points out the late emergence of the Roswell story, suggesting it gained traction in the late 1980s and 1990s, aligning with a rise in conspiracy theories and distrust of government in the US.

Skeptiske danskere (Skeptical Danes)

This section features the Danish UFO Information (SUFOI) and its skeptical stance on the Roswell incident. Lars Thomsen of SUFOI questions why the story only gained prominence in the late 1980s after Charles Berlitz published a book on it. He suggests the narrative fits well with the prevailing paranoia and distrust of government in the US during the 80s and 90s.

En ufo? Nej, en kro (A UFO? No, a Pub)

This short news item reports on a supposed UFO sighting near Gram, Denmark, on New Year's Eve. After investigation by SUFOI chairman Toke Haunstrup, it was determined that the lights were from projectors at a local pub.

Nytårs-ufo var laserlys fra diskotek (New Year's UFO was Laser Lights from Disco)

This article clarifies the previous report, stating that the 'UFO' seen on New Year's Eve was not from a pub but from laser lights at a disco called Josephine in Rødding. The event had generated numerous UFO reports to SUFOI's alarm center.

Fænomener som healing og astrologi er populære, men Skeptiker Forening Danmark kæmper imod og vil skabe balance i oplysningerne om det udokumenterede (Phenomena like healing and astrology are popular, but Skeptic Association Denmark fights against them and wants to create balance in the information about the undocumented)

This interview with Willy Wegner, a spokesperson for Skeptiker Forening Danmark, discusses the popularity of various alternative and paranormal phenomena like UFOs, telepathy, astrology, and healing. Wegner explains that the association's goal is not to stop people from believing but to demand evidence and documentation for claims, especially when they seek public support or funding. He highlights that members are typically professionals from academic or scientific fields who work on a voluntary basis. The interview touches upon the dangers of fanaticism and sects, citing the Heaven's Gate mass suicide as an example. Wegner also shares anecdotes illustrating the humorous side of skepticism and mentions the international network of skeptic organizations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, particularly UFOs, the critical examination of alleged evidence, and the promotion of rational thinking. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of scientific evidence and documentation, actively working to debunk hoaxes and misinformation. There's a strong emphasis on distinguishing between genuine phenomena and fabricated stories or folklore. The Y2K panic also serves as a backdrop, illustrating how anxieties can lead to widespread fear and preparation for doomsday scenarios, often fueled by sensationalism.

This issue of JYDSKE VESTKYSTEN, dated January 1999, focuses heavily on numerous UFO sightings reported by readers across Denmark, particularly around New Year's Eve and morning. The magazine features multiple articles, interviews, and a public meeting report detailing these events and expert opinions.

UFO Sightings on New Year's Eve/Morning

The primary theme is the widespread reports of unusual aerial phenomena observed on New Year's 1999. Several articles detail specific accounts:

• "Ufoer lyste on i Lervad" (UFOs lit up in Lervad): This article recounts the experience of Bodil Jørgensen and her family, who were followed by two luminous phenomena, described as 1-2 meters in diameter, while walking home on New Year's morning. They reported their telephone becoming dead during the encounter. Henning Madsen also reported seeing similar lights and stated he could not explain them as projectors or laser lights.
• "Talrige ufo-observatører fik telefonerne til at gløde" (Numerous UFO observers made the telephones glow): This piece highlights that the JYDSKE VESTKYSTEN newsroom in Vejen received over 30 calls from people who had seen UFOs. Aase Sørensen, a home care worker, and her colleague reported being followed by two luminous objects while driving to work. They heard a low humming or buzzing sound. Svend Eeg, a farmer, also witnessed the lights while milking his cows.
• "Også de så mystisk lys flintre rundt på himlen" (They too saw mysterious lights flitting across the sky): This article includes the account of Winnie Linnet and Bjarne Refsing from Darum, who observed a luminous disc or discs moving erratically and at high speed. They described the object as oval and yellowish-white, with movements that were too fast and complex for laser lights.
• "Hun blev fulgt på arbejde af en ufo" (She was followed to work by a UFO): This article focuses on a woman from Vejen who reported being followed by two luminous, round objects for three to four meters while driving to work in Ribe on New Year's morning. She described them as being close to her car and moving erratically.
• "Der er noget i luften" (There is something in the air): This article summarizes the events, noting that many readers in the Vejen, Holsted, and Ribe areas witnessed two bright, dancing lights or spheres. One woman was followed by the lights for a significant distance while driving, and another man reported being followed up his street.

Expert Explanations and Organizations

The magazine extensively features explanations from UFO experts, primarily Egon Dalsgaard from UFO-Kontakten in Kolding and H.C. Petersen, a retired major and former flight controller associated with IGAP (International Get Aquainted Program).

• UFO-Kontakten and IGAP: Egon Dalsgaard explains that UFO stands for Unidentified Flying Objects and that his organization has existed since 1950. He suggests that Earth has been visited by beings from other planets, who may be trying to warn humanity about pollution. He also references the Bible as evidence for UFOs.
• Dismissal of Laser Lights: Both Dalsgaard and Petersen strongly refute the idea that the observed phenomena were laser lights from discotheques, such as the one owned by Tano Alonso in Rødding. They argue that laser beams cannot perform the observed maneuvers, like moving around a flagpole or following a car for extended distances.
• Telemeterskiver: The prevailing explanation offered by the experts is that the phenomena were 'telemeterskiver' – small, remote-controlled observation craft from alien planets. These are described as unmanned, electromagnetically driven vehicles capable of incredible speeds and maneuvers, gathering information for larger mother ships.
• Official Secrecy: H.C. Petersen, a retired major, mentioned that the Danish Air Force and US Air Force likely possess significant material on UFOs but do not officially disclose it.

Public Interest and Events

The public's fascination with UFOs is evident throughout the issue:

• High Attendance at UFO Meeting: JYDSKE VESTKYSTEN organized a free meeting at Hotel Vejen Gæstgivergård with UFO experts H.C. Petersen and Egon Dalsgaard. The event was a significant success, with over 120 attendees, far exceeding the expected number, and many more had to be turned away due to capacity limits. The meeting featured presentations, film screenings, and data collection on the New Year's sightings.
• Media Coverage: The newspaper received a large volume of calls and letters from readers eager to share their experiences and seek explanations, highlighting the significant public interest in the topic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are the widespread and consistent nature of the New Year's UFO sightings, the dismissal of mundane explanations like laser lights, and the promotion of extraterrestrial origins as the most plausible explanation by the featured experts. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting on these phenomena, providing a platform for both witness accounts and expert analysis, while acknowledging the public's demand for answers. The magazine encourages readers to come forward with any photographic or video evidence they might have.