Saucer Smear - Vol 24 No 04 - 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER GLUES
Issue: Vol. 24, No. 4
Date: March 25th, 1977
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Type: Non-Scheduled Newsletter

Editorial Observations

The issue opens with "MISC. RAVINGS" replaced by "short observations." The editor notes that only Captain Oberg seemed to notice that "Saucer Clues" had used a repeat title. More sadly, there have been no favorable letters received about Allen Greenfield, with John Keel's letter being the only one, which the editor does not consider favorable. To address the issue of non-subscribers reading others' letters, the publication introduces a "HANDY INDEX" listing contributors and their corresponding page numbers, presented in alphabetical order. The editor humorously notes that if a reader's name is not on the list, they might not have written in lately.

1977 National UFO Conference Announcement

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to announcing the "1977 NATIONAL UFO CONFERENCE." The conference is scheduled for Saturday, August 6, 1977, at the Hotel San Franciscan in San Francisco, California. This marks the first time the event has been held west of the Mississippi. The letter, dated December 28, 1976, from Dale Rettig, a member of the Permanent Organizing Committee and sponsor of 1977 NUFOCON, invites "Diehard Saucerites" to attend. It highlights that the conference has been a gathering of "middle ufologists" since 1964, welcoming all participants regardless of affiliation. The letter mentions a cyclical presence of UFO reports and notes high interest from Californians. A special "public session" is also projected. Information on hotel reservations is provided, with a group rate of $22 single and $26 double for August 4-6. Attendees are urged to send reservation cards promptly. Dale Rettig requests that those who publish "ufozines" print the conference details and use his name and address as the source for information.

A "FLASH!" announcement reveals that Stanton Friedman will be speaking at the public session of the conference. Dale Rettig is reportedly in negotiations with other leading ufologists for further speakers.

Missives and Contributions

The "MISSIVES" section features a collection of letters and comments from various individuals in the ufology community:

• Steve Barnett humorously requests "a little more porno" in "Saucer Gnus."
• John Keel, writing as "Ted Mulch, Ph.U.," provides a lengthy and critical assessment of Allen Greenfield, accusing him of arrogance and self-promotion, and questioning his contributions to ufology. Keel also mentions that Greenfield was not invited to the government-funded International UFO Congress in Mexico and refers to him as a "non-person."
• Janice Croy addresses past "bad feelings" with Robert S. Easley and publicly apologizes, emphasizing the need for unity in ufology. She expresses anticipation for meeting Easley at the National UFO Conference.
• Richard Heiden clarifies that he is not an "anti-contactee" and believes contactee reports should be judged case-by-case. He mentions being involved in investigating a Milwaukee contactee case. Heiden also comments on Jim Oberg's discussion of the "hollow moon" theory, questioning the source of Oberg's information.
• Captain Oberg writes a humorous and self-referential piece, stating he "loved 'Saucer Clues'" and that anti-Oberg references are either humorous or slander. He claims no factual errors have been raised against his research and suggests a common ground with ufologists who are imaginative, well-read, and interested in space exploration.
• Jim Moseley (as editor) responds to Oberg's comments, noting that Oberg's dictionary lacks a word and jokingly suggests Janice Croy might help. He also mentions receiving an "Organization Chart" of Heaven from Oberg.
• Phil Klass writes about receiving a massive sum from the CIA for an autographed copy of his book "UFOs Explained," humorously questioning if CIA payments are tax-free and if he is being paid off for services rendered. He also presents a theory about the needle mark on Travis Walton's arm involving a blow-gun.
• Gilbert Ziemba thanks the publication for mentioning his letter and provides his current address for correspondence. He praises Betty Moseley's cartoon and announces his upcoming series, "The UFO Challengers," in "Unknown Worlds," which he claims will offer a controversial "ultimate answer" to what UFOs are.
• Lama Dickhoff comments on Dave Fideler's "Ass-ociation" and describes the individuals featured in the issue as "weirdos."
• Bob Sheaffer suggests that Jim Moseley should have been a writer instead of a UFO chaser, implying he has a talent for writing.

Further Correspondence and Commentary

• Jim Moseley (Editor) responds to Bob Sheaffer, expressing a preference for being remembered as a writer like Hemingway.
• Dennis Pilichis of the Page Research Library seeks assistance for his "Illustrated History of UFO Newsletters," mentioning an "organized movement" attempting to suppress his work. He reports receiving copies of his newsletter torn up and mailed back, interpreting these as warnings.
• Curt Sutherly comments on Dave Fideler, questioning his identity and noting that Fideler reversed the order of mentioning researchers. Sutherly humorously confirms his status as a "former Air Force agent." He also criticizes the use of "newslettRE" as a gossip forum and mentions that John Keel is planning a book about exorcising UFO demons from Dr. Hynek's basement. Sutherly also inquires about Stan Friedman and jokes about Captain Oberg's league with fictional characters.
• Hayden Hewes addresses George Earley's comments regarding "recompense in coin of the realm." Hewes clarifies that payment was outlined for information provided and that cooperation was the primary goal. He recounts Earley's dismissive response when asked for a book publisher's address, calling it "tacky" and "schlock." Hewes praises Earley's favorable review of "UFO Missionaries Extraordinary" but suggests Earley should focus on research rather than prolonging it.
• William H. Spaulding of GROUND SAUCER WATCH (Civilian Aerial Phenomena Research Organization) writes to Jim Moseley, noting his name was omitted from a list of speakers for the "Almighty Acapulco group." Spaulding makes a point of revealing that "James" (presumably Moseley) and he are both "illegitimate children" and were raised on the teachings of Adamski and Fry. He contrasts James's philosophy (based on Menzel and Klass) with his own belief in UFOs and government conspiracy. Spaulding concludes by stating that both he and James believe UFOs are real and that James is jealous of not being invited to speak at symposiums. They are reportedly looking for an ex-CIA agent named Admiral Spaulberg.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a highly informal and often critical tone within the ufology community. There is a strong emphasis on personal opinions, rivalries, and critiques of fellow researchers. The editor, Jim Moseley, uses a sarcastic and sometimes confrontational style, particularly in his responses to contributors and his own editorial comments. Themes include the credibility of researchers like Allen Greenfield and Captain Oberg, the nature of UFO evidence, the role of government in UFO phenomena, and the internal dynamics and disputes within ufology organizations. The publication also serves as a platform for announcements and discussions related to UFO conferences and publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards certain established figures and theories, while encouraging open discussion and debate, albeit often in a combative manner.