UFO Lokal Information - 1986 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Lokal Information" is a Swedish UFO magazine, identified as No. 4 from 1986. It is published by Enköpings UFO-förening and serves as a platform for communication and discussion among local UFO groups within Sweden. The magazine features a hand-drawn map of Sweden on its cover, with the main headline "INFORMATION.". The issue date is indicated as No. 4, 1986.

Editorial Content

The magazine opens with a message to all local UFO associations, reflecting on the year 1986 and the progress (or lack thereof) in the UFO field. The editor notes a decrease in optimism compared to the previous year and questions whether the UFO issue has moved closer to being understood. There's a discussion about the need for a "Säger någon" (someone says) international award, suggesting that Swedish UFO work might be recognized, but also questioning the goal of being "first in the world".

A significant portion of the content revolves around the need to "bilda opinion" (form public opinion) and the challenges faced by local groups in doing so. The idea of a petition to the authorities is suggested, demanding action. The issue highlights a planning conference held in Rättvik, hosted by Siljansringens UFO-förening, which was deemed productive but too short. Participants agreed on a "navigable path" forward, including Göran's proposal for reporting and a planned district division.

Positive developments mentioned for 1986 include the launch of a new traveling exhibition for UFO-Sverige, intended to boost public outreach. The film screened at the conference, which was almost not shown due to a worn-out tape, is also noted as a positive event, with hopes that significant action will finally be taken.

However, the magazine also addresses negative aspects. The subscription numbers for "UFO-Sverige Aktuellt" are reportedly low, leading to a discussion about potentially lowering the price. The magazine itself is criticized for being one-sided, serving more as a bulletin for other publications rather than a true communication tool for local groups. The contributor expresses a desire for more information from the local groups about their activities and preparations.

Specific wishes for the new working year include at least four updates per year from all local groups (even just half a page), the formation of at least five new local groups, and an increase in the circulation of "UFO-Aktuellt". The issue concludes with holiday greetings for Christmas and New Year.

Planning Conference in Rättvik

One contributor, identified as "2. Beru't Berglued Ludvilka", provides feedback on the planning conference in Rättvik. While thanking Päe-Anders Långsvens for the arrangements, the contributor criticizes the conference's structure, noting the lack of a prepared agenda and people being cramped in a room. The contributor emphasizes the need for participants to share proposals and ideas, which was limited to small groups. The scarcity of time allocated for UFO-Sverige gatherings is questioned, suggesting that a two-day conference would be more beneficial, even if some find it expensive. The contributor wonders if there's a fear of giving others responsibility or if something is wrong within UFO-Sverige, questioning if the central group fears being challenged by more knowledgeable members. The importance of distributing work to local departments and allowing them to learn from mistakes is stressed. Suggestions for courses, such as field research, administration, and economics, are made, believing they would be well-attended. The proposed district division is seen as a good starting point for cooperation and joint courses.

Message to All Local Groups

"Mats" writes to all local groups, expressing joy at the activity of UFO-Sverige groups during the past year and the good contact with the central group. Plans for new groups in Ljungby, Halmstad, and Gotland are mentioned. The writer shares personal experiences of hosting visitors at the UFO-Sverige office and encourages continued visits. The writer also mentions visiting several groups, including those in Halmstad, Ljungby, Malmö, and Göteborg, describing it as a positive trip. The importance of local groups actively marketing themselves through local press and local radio is highlighted. The writer urges groups to share their ideas and activities through the "Internbladet" (internal newsletter) to benefit other groups. Arnold Idebring in Enköping is mentioned as someone who needs more material submissions from groups. The message concludes with holiday wishes and a reminder that this is the last internal newsletter before Christmas.

"Larm-kedja!" (Alarm Chain!)

This section introduces a proposal for a "riks-täckande" (nationwide) alarm chain. The initiative, spearheaded by C G Norlén of Stockholms UFO-förening, aims to gauge interest in creating such a system. It acknowledges the significant demands on participants and requires them to fill out a form with their contact details, availability, and willingness to participate. The proposal outlines a structure with regional coordinators and deputies. Participants are asked to send their interest to "KEDJAN, STUFO, Box 137, 145 01 NORSBORG" by February 28, 1987. The form also includes a detailed list of equipment that participants might be able to provide, such as extension cords, binoculars, cameras, and magnetometers, as well as questions about financing methods (one-time fee, annual fee, monthly fee, or deposit). The writer notes that the conditions for participation will be tougher than a regular membership and that exclusion from the chain is possible for failure to comply with duties. The option to be a regional coordinator or deputy is also presented.

Västerbergslagens UFO-förening

"Gudrun" from Västerbergslagens UFO-förening writes about their efforts to help UFO-Sverige. Despite attempts to engage with the organization and its leadership, there has been no response. The writer suggests that UFO-Sverige needs training in board management and emphasizes the importance of having an agenda well in advance of meetings. The writer also shares an experience of ordering magazines that took a long time to arrive. The local group is described as functioning well under Bernt Berglund's organization, with a system for handling incoming reports by distributing them among different members of the investigation group. However, the writer expresses serious consideration of leaving UFO-Sverige if the upcoming planning sessions continue with the same "poor spirit" as previous ones, preferring to focus on their own strong local association.

Enköpings UFO-för.

This report from Enköpings UFO-förening indicates that things are proceeding as usual, with no UFO sightings reported in their immediate area. However, the group is busy preparing two newsletters. They are also conducting a study circle on "Den Snillrika människan" (The Ingenious Human), focusing on history, with 19 participants and four meetings held so far. A voluntary lecturer covers different topics each time. The group plans a Christmas party with porridge, coffee, cake, and a package auction. A theater group is also actively working. After the study circle concludes in March, they plan to create a mini-exhibition for youth centers and schools, to be used in conjunction with films. They also intend to produce a short film about local UFO cases for the same purpose. They have presented their material at five locations, including youth centers and a school. Regarding the proposed district division, they have not yet taken a stance but note that it is perceived positively. The report concludes with holiday wishes to all local associations.

UFO-GÄVLEBORG Proposal on Districts

This section, from UFO-GÄVLEBORG, presents a proposal for dividing UFO-Sverige into districts. The proposal, discussed at the planning conference in Rättvik on November 8, 1986, aims to improve collaboration and efficiency. Four districts are outlined:

• District 1: Kiruna TVF.UFO-NORD, Umeå UFO-FÖRENING, ÅDALENS UFO-FÖRENING, UFO-Z, UFO-SUNDSVALL.
• District 2: SILJANSRINGENS UFO-GRUPP, VÄSTERBERGSLAGENS UFO-FÖRENING, SALA AMATÖRFÖRENING F.TVÄRVETENSKAP, UPPSALA UFO-FÖRENING, GÄVLEBORGS UFO-FÖRENING.
• District 3: ENKÖPINGS UFO-FÖRENING, ESKILSTUNA UFO-FÖRENING, KÖPINGS UFO-FÖRENING, STOCKHOLMS UFO-FÖRENING, ARBETSGR.F.UFO-IDENTIF.AFUI.
• District 4: ARKIVET FÖR UFO-FORSKNING.AFU, UFO-NYKÖPING.TVF, UFO-CENTER KARLSKOGA, GÖTEBORGS UFO-FÖRENING, MALMÖ UFO-JOUR.

The document then lists potential benefits of this district structure:

1. Increased cooperation between associations within a district.
2. Better knowledge of each other's internal activities.
3. Improved opportunities to establish new local groups within districts.
4. Enhanced public information due to more stable and stronger districts.
5. The UFO-SVERIGES Board can send assignments and directives to district contact persons.
6. The UFO-SVERIGES Board will be relieved of mundane tasks and can focus on more significant work.

Local groups are asked to provide their opinions on this proposal and any other suggestions they may have, with the goal of strengthening UFO-Sverige. Responses should be sent to GÄVLEBORGS UFO-FÖRENING, BOX 282, 801 04 GÄVLE.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the organizational challenges and future direction of UFO-Sverige, the importance of effective reporting and public outreach, and the need for greater collaboration among local groups. There is a clear desire among contributors to see UFO-Sverige become more proactive and impactful. The editorial stance appears to be one of constructive criticism, urging for improvements in communication, organization, and public engagement, while also acknowledging the efforts of dedicated individuals and local groups. The issue reflects a period of introspection and planning for the organization, with a focus on adapting to new challenges and opportunities in UFO research and advocacy.

This issue of UFO-Gävleborg, dated 1987 and identified as issue number 10, focuses heavily on the internal organization, planning, and operational aspects of UFO-Sverige. The content is primarily in Swedish and appears to be a collection of minutes, reports, and discussions from various meetings and conferences.

District Organization and Planning Conferences

The lead article, 'Om Distritstyrelser tillsätts i de 4 regionerna, hur kan dom utformas?' (If District Boards are Appointed in the 4 Regions, How Can They Be Formed?), explores potential structures for regional district boards. A proposed model suggests two representatives from each local association plus one or two deputies per district. It also discusses the frequency and location of district meetings (four times a year, rotating locations) and raises questions about potential subsidies and financing for these districts.

A section on 'PLANERINGSKONFERANSER' (Planning Conferences) discusses holding one or two per district annually, often in conjunction with district board meetings and varying locations among the associations. The goal is to better engage and activate UFO groups across Sweden and to influence UFO interests at the district level.

The 'SAMARBETE-UFO-SVERIGES STYRELSE - UFO-GRUPPER' (Cooperation - UFO-SWEDEN'S BOARD - UFO GROUPS) section poses questions about planning and structuring cooperation between the national board and local groups to create a stronger UFO-Sweden.

Planning Conference in Rättvik (November 8, 1986)

Detailed notes from a planning conference held in Rättvik on November 8, 1986, are presented. Pär Anders Långsvens of Siljansringen welcomed attendees, and UFO-Sveriges chairman Christer Nordin opened the conference, expressing hope for a productive day. Christer Nordin was elected chairman of the conference, and Ulla Hallgren of Västerbergslagens UFO-förening was elected secretary.

The agenda included discussions on an economic report, budget proposals, UFO-Sveriges goals, administration, and notes from planning meetings in Enköping and Björsjö. Specific points like 4, 4b, 6, and 9 were to be discussed in large groups, with the rest in smaller groups.

Statutes (STADGAR)

Although the statutes committee had not met, Bernt Berglund from Västerbergslagens UFO-förening had independently drafted a proposal. This proposal generated significant discussion, covering aspects like membership age, the name 'UFO Sverige', whether it should be a central group or a board, the timing of the general assembly, and mandate distribution. The conference enthusiastically received the proposal and urged the committee to continue working on it, sending it out for review to local associations. The statutes are intended to be ready for adoption at the 1987 general assembly.

Economic Report

An economic report by Ulf Ekstedt described the financial situation as 'very dark,' with UFO-Sverige facing a loss of approximately 80,000-100,000 SEK. Despite this, Ekstedt was optimistic, citing the repayment of a loan and the nearing completion of a data leasing agreement. The board decided to handle magazine printing internally to reduce costs. To attract more members, issue number 4 of the magazine would be printed in 2,000 extra copies.

Operations and Magazine Production

Information was provided that four people were willing to work as operators for magazine typesetting and data card punching. The board expressed gratitude for this help, as UFO-Sverige would now be producing the magazine themselves.

UFO-Sveriges Prize

UFO-Sverige received a silver trophy for its work in Hessdalen. The award was presented at a meeting in Oslo by Yorkshire UFO's from England. UFO i Norge also received a similar award.

Project Dalarna

Gudrun Andersson of Västerbergslagens UFO-förening reported on Project Hessdalen in Dalarna. Plans included monitoring five locations in Dalarna from January 6-12, 1987, with accommodation arrangements for interested participants. Scheduling of 'work shifts' was also part of the plan. However, there was a need for assistance with equipment, which UFO-Sverige had promised to provide.

Field Research Courses

The cancellation of a field research course in the fall prompted a discussion about the reasons, questioning whether it was due to finances or a decline in interest. Västerbergslagens UFO-förening had successfully organized its own courses, and the question was raised whether this was a viable model or if a mixed approach to courses should be considered.

UFO-Sveriges Film

Gunnar Thoreń reported on contact with Arnold Idebring in Enköping regarding a film project. The conference agreed that the film must be made, with Ove Lewitzki volunteering to undertake the task. Suggestions included using parts of an older film and incorporating newer music. A woman in Nacka was reportedly writing the script. The film was intended to be 15-25 minutes long. Enköpings UFO-förening had raised 2,500 SEK for the film, issuing an ultimatum: if the film is not completed in 1987, the funds would be used for another purpose, or Enköpings UFO-förening would produce the film themselves.

Criticism of UFO-Sverige

Göran Norlén presented a compilation of criticisms against UFO-Sverige's work. These included: insufficient information, late or absent meeting documents, slow delivery of materials, unanswered public letters, ineffective magazine distribution, a lack of adequate goals, and the need for an information and reporting center. Further recommendations included establishing systems for registering various types of data (photo, film, seismic, magnetic, geological, geophysical, atmospheric disturbances) and monitoring private traffic, balloons, astronomical data, space traffic, weather patterns, and military activities. The importance of a clear mission statement and a serious action plan was emphasized, including efforts to secure government support and convince military decision-makers of the value of a civilian air surveillance system, with UFOs being a natural project within this system.

District Division Proposal

Roland Östlund of Gävle UFO-förening presented a proposal to divide UFO-Sverige into four districts for a trial period of 2-3 years, followed by an evaluation. The planning conference received the proposal positively and suggested it be sent out for review to local associations.

Conclusion

The conference concluded with a statement that if these guidelines could be followed, UFO-Sverige could become 'the best in the world in 2 years,' referencing a statement made at the Östersund general assembly. However, due to time constraints, some points, including aspects of the statutes proposal and the district division proposal, were not fully discussed. Members were urged to review and discuss these matters within their local associations to provide input to the board.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are organizational structure, strategic planning, financial management, and member engagement within UFO-Sverige. The editorial stance appears to be one of striving for improvement and professionalism, aiming to strengthen the organization and its impact, as evidenced by the ambition to become 'the best in the world.' There is a clear emphasis on structured processes, clear goals, and active participation from local groups. The criticism section also indicates a desire for greater transparency and efficiency.

Other Content

An 'OBS!' section provides information from the Report Center to local groups and field researchers, detailing the process for submitting UFO reports for the 1986 annual report, with a deadline of January 8. It emphasizes the importance of receiving all UFO-IFOs, even if no observations were made, to ensure completeness. The address for Ulf Ekstedt in Eskilstuna is provided.

A separate section lists the autumn program for the Sala Amateur Association for Transdisciplinary Science (SAT), including lectures on astrology, computers, and ambres, as well as general discussion evenings.

Finally, a page displays two UFO emblems: one for 'UFO SVERIGE' and another for 'UFO Enköping,' with details on how local groups can order them from Arnold Idebring.