AI Magazine Summary
Saucer Smear - Vol 32 No 04 - 1985
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Title: SAUCER SMEAR Issue: Volume 32, No. 4 Date: April 20th, 1985 Publisher: SAUCER SMEAR Type: Official publication of the SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY.
Magazine Overview
Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 32, No. 4
Date: April 20th, 1985
Publisher: SAUCER SMEAR
Type: Official publication of the SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY.
Exclusive Information: UFOs and Reagan's "Star Wars" Plan
The lead story in this issue of "Saucer Smear" presents exclusive information from a source in Washington D.C., alleging that President Reagan's "Star Wars" plan is not primarily intended as a defense against Soviet missiles. Instead, it is claimed to be a joint U.S.-Soviet effort to develop an effective defense against UFOs. The article suggests that the U.S. government possesses significant knowledge about UFOs, including the suspicion that some invading objects may be hostile. Russia is also aware of this threat and is covertly cooperating with the U.S. on "Star Wars" technology, despite public disagreements.
The impetus for this defense initiative is attributed to the December 1980 Rendlesham Forest incident in England. Following this event, President Reagan reportedly convened a panel of leading scientists, including Dr. Edward Teller, which recommended the "Star Wars" program. The panel advised delaying its announcement to avoid linking it too obviously with the UFO incident. The article further alleges that the CIA orchestrated "boomerang UFO" incidents near Stormville, New York, to create the impression of prosaic explanations for UFO sightings, as part of a government cover-up. This information was allegedly leaked by a disgruntled White House official.
Editor's Notes and Reader Contributions
James W. Moseley, the editor, acknowledges the source of the "cover-up" story and explains that while he has no proof, he felt compelled to publish it. He also introduces a "Dreaded X" system for non-subscribers, indicating that those with an "X" on their envelope must respond to remain on the mailing list.
A fascinating newspaper article is shared, discussing a new theory that the universe may have spontaneously created itself and expanded. Readers interested in this topic are directed to the St. Louis Globe Democrat.
- News Briefies include:
- Moseley's appearance on a Miami talk show discussing UFOs and antiquities.
- An offer from George Earley for a list of his publications.
- Information about the second issue of Ken Behrendt's technical UFO journal, "AURA".
- Details about the upcoming National UFO Conference (NUFOC) in Fremont, California, on May 25th, featuring speakers Bill Moore and Thomas Gates, with Moseley acting as master of ceremonies.
- An announcement of Moseley and Kal K. Korff speaking at the Bay Area Skeptics meeting in Campbell, California, on May 23rd.
The Poetry of Gray Barker
This section features two poems by the late Gray Barker, presented as examples of his UFO-themed work from the 1960s. The poems, titled "UFO IS A BUCKET OF SHIT" and "Women included among good liars," offer a cynical and critical perspective on the UFO field and its followers.
R. E. Straith Speaks
R. E. Straith makes a humorous statement about entertaining guests in Washington D.C., implying that new regulations prohibit casual lunches and that guests might have to pay for themselves unless they are dignitaries.
'Alien Attack' Puts Man in Hospital
A brief report from Salt Lake City describes a man who claimed to be attacked by extraterrestrials and was taken to a hospital after exhibiting violent behavior. The man had reportedly lost $1 million gambling.
Letters to Ye Olde Editor
- Several letters from notable figures in the UFO community are included:
- Timothy Good, co-author of "George Adamski: The Untold Story," thanks "Smear" for solving the "Straith Letter" mystery and mentions filing a Freedom of Information request for related documents. He also offers a special deal on his book.
- Ian Mrzyglod, a former British UFO zine editor, comments on the "Straith Letter" and the practice of faking evidence. He expresses skepticism about the reliability of UFO evidence and investigators, reflecting on his past belief in UFO stories.
- Bob Schmidt, a ufologist and cartoonist, congratulates "Smear" on its provocative content and suggests reducing the price of a John Keel statue.
- Tom Benson, the new New Jersey Director for Ground Saucer Watch (GSW), writes about taking over the directorship and hints at future revelations about "charlatan George Adamski" and Moseley's role.
- Erik Beckjord recounts an incident in 1983 where he was shot at by an individual who believed he was possessed by Bigfoot. He also mentions a movie about Mokele Mbembe.
- Ernest H. Taves, M.D., a skeptic, humorously comments on Moseley's potential shift towards skepticism and suggests he might become an honorary non-member of CSICOP.
- John Merrell, another skeptic, discusses researcher Brent Raynes' work and contactee Wayne Aho. He notes Aho's belief in interdimensional travel and his past predictions, questioning if contactees experience a "psychic failure" before fading away.
Other Contributions
- Scot Morris of OMNI Magazine comments on Moseley's piece about Coral Castle, agreeing with the assessment of its builder as a driven physicist.
- Peter Sutherland from Canada expresses concern about reports of UFOs landing at Air Force bases and offers his services as a consultant to the government for dealing with aliens, emphasizing his reasonable fees and ability to manage public relations.
Legal Note
A brief news item from the National Enquirer reports that Maryland's highest court ruled a four-letter slang word for sexual intercourse was neither profane nor obscene.
Letter from John P. Timmerman (CUFOS)
John P. Timmerman, Chairman of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS), writes to Moseley regarding Dr. Hynek's "angel" and the search for funding. He discusses the concept of "teetering" toward skepticism as a healthy condition for objectivity in UFO research. Timmerman emphasizes that human perception is fallible, witness credibility is crucial, and the burden of proof lies with the proponent of an anomaly. He also acknowledges the enduring mystery of why people report similar strange experiences across history and the challenge of finding explanations for unexplained physical events.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of "Saucer Smear" maintains its characteristic blend of investigative reporting, often controversial claims, and a healthy dose of skepticism and satire. The central theme is the alleged secret collaboration between the U.S. and Soviet Union regarding UFO defense, framed within the context of Reagan's "Star Wars" program. The publication continues to feature contributions from both proponents and skeptics within the ufological community, highlighting diverse perspectives on UFO phenomena. The editor, James W. Moseley, positions himself as a truth-seeker, willing to expose potentially sensitive information regardless of personal risk. The inclusion of poetry and humorous commentary, alongside serious allegations, underscores the publication's unique and often irreverent approach to the subject matter.