Saucer Smear - Vol 33 No 04 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue Date: May 15th, 1986
Type: Non-Scheduled Newsletter, Official Publication of the Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society.

This issue of "Saucer Smear" is dedicated to the highest principles of ufological journalism and features a prominent article on the death of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a significant figure in UFO research.

Comments on the Death of Dr. J. Allen Hynek (1910-1986)

The lead article reflects on the passing of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a scientist and the de facto leader of ufology since 1973 as head of CUFOS (Center for UFO Studies). The author contrasts Hynek with Major Donald Keyhoe, whom he describes as a pretentious aviation writer who "snowed" the public into believing NICAP had government connections while attacking the Air Force. Hynek, on the other hand, is praised for his authentic scientific credentials and the respect he earned. His role as chief scientific consultant to the Air Force's Project Bluebook is mentioned. The article notes that Hynek's job was perceived by some UFO believers as debunking cases to keep the public calm. A key moment highlighted is Hynek's "marsh gas" explanation for sightings near Dexter, Michigan, in March 1966, which led to widespread ridicule but also increased public interest in UFOs. The author acknowledges that Hynek eventually realized some cases were genuinely strange and tried to balance scientific objectivity with advocacy. Despite some minor disagreements, the editor expresses that Hynek was an open-minded gentleman who did his best. His death is described as a merciful release from a terrible disease, and the article notes his sense of failure in not solving the "Mystery" or attracting significant funding for CUFOS.

Other Articles and Missives

Marijuana Called Top Cash Crop in Nation: A brief, unrelated news item.

Illegal Alien Wins $2 Million in Lottery: A brief, unrelated news item about Jose Caballero.

Miscellaneous Ravings:
This section includes commentary on James Randi, the debunker of parapsychology, comparing him to Phil Klass in ufology. Randi's appearance on the Johnny Carson Show, exposing faith healer Peter Popoff, is highlighted. An incident where Randi allegedly punched a ufologist, John De Herrera, is also recounted. The section also touches upon allegations of homosexual relationships against Randi, linking them to methods used by pro-psychics. A comparison is drawn to the case of Lt. Col. Wendelle Stevens, who pleaded guilty to pornography and sex charges, and whose support for the Billy Meier contactee case is mentioned.

Press-Time Details About the Forthcoming Phoenix Convention:
Details are provided for the 23rd annual National UFO Conference, held May 16-18, 1986, in Phoenix, Arizona, dedicated to Dr. J. Allen Hynek. The event includes a cocktail party, talks by various speakers including Stanton Friedman, Daniel Fry, Robert Sheaffer, Brad Steiger, and William Moore. Representatives from CUFOS, FUFOR, and MUFON are also expected. A separate room for display and sale of UFO materials is mentioned, along with room rates and admission prices.

Missives From the Masses:

• Professor Alvin Lawson writes that UFOs have likely been explained by ultraviolet photos showing "spots" in Earth's atmosphere, suggesting they are spent comets or atmospheric phenomena, and declares "the UFO/ETH party's over!"
• Thomas Cannon, a Black philanthropist, discusses the "black experience" and why "coloreds" might show less interest in UFOs. He suggests that racial discrimination might make them uncomfortable interviewing white UFO witnesses, and that media focus on negative aspects of the Black community discourages interest in "white interests" like ufology. He refutes Bob Schmidt's claim that a "genetically-rooted fear of matters unknown" is specific to Black people.
• George Fawcett, a UFO researcher, praises "Saucer Smear" for covering human personalities in UFO research and highlights Rob Anderson as a significant Black UFO investigator.
• Bill Retoff questions why there are few "Indians" involved with UFOs, following a discussion about the lack of Black involvement.
• Bill Steinman claims that the MJ-12 group, formed by General George Marshall in July 1947, is responsible for covering up the truth about flying saucers. He also states that there were 3-4 original recoveries of crashed flying saucers between 1947 and 1950, with subsequent recoveries being "our own" (mundane).
• Robert Davis found a 1927 letter from Vincent Starrett mentioning "Donnie Keyhoe" as a contributor to "Weird Tales" magazine, suggesting Donald E. Keyhoe concealed this part of his background.
• Ron Schmidt commends "Saucer Smear" as a valuable newsletter.
• Tom Higgins expresses his addiction to "Saucer Smear".
• Dave Reissig offers a philosophical and unconventional view, stating that UFOs have "prominent sex organs" and are biological entities that reproduce and interact intimately.

Editor's Note: Apologies are extended to Erik Beckjord and others whose letters were not printed. A letter from Phil Klass is mentioned, addressing a challenge to those who believe in a UFO conspiracy.

Philip J. Klass Letter:
Klass responds to Tom Benson's claim that he has called pro-UFO researchers "Communists." Klass proposes a wager, offering $10,000 if Benson can find such a charge in his books, while Benson would pay $1.00 per page if he cannot. Klass clarifies his position regarding the "Cosmic Watergate" claim, emphasizing that he is not suggesting affiliation with Communist Fronts but resents the charge of "coverup" against multiple US administrations. He urges those making such claims to present evidence to journalists at the National Press Club.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of "Saucer Smear" appears to be one of critical inquiry, often skeptical of official explanations while also being critical of what it perceives as unsubstantiated claims or overly zealous advocacy within the UFO community. The publication values well-supported research and highlights figures like Dr. J. Allen Hynek for their scientific approach, while also engaging with more fringe elements and controversies. There is a clear emphasis on journalistic integrity and a willingness to challenge prevailing narratives, whether from government agencies or within the UFO research field itself. The inclusion of diverse reader opinions, including those from minority perspectives, suggests an attempt to engage with a broader spectrum of thought on the UFO phenomenon. The publication also seems to have a long-standing tradition of covering both well-known cases and lesser-known aspects of UFOlogy and related fields like parapsychology.