Saucer Smear - Vol 35 No 07 - 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Vol. 35, No. 7
Date: November 15th, 1988
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY

This issue of SAUCER SMEAR, published by James W. Moseley, focuses on the aftermath and key events of the 1988 National UFO Conference (NUFOC), celebrating its 25th anniversary. The publication details a schism among Cleveland ufologists that was resolved, leading to the NUFOC's sponsorship in Cleveland. It lists the speakers and members of the NUFOC Governing Board, noting absences and replacements for the following year's convention, which is planned for Phoenix, Arizona.

The 1988 National UFO Conference

The main event covered is the 1988 NUFOC convention. A significant lecture highlighted was by Dr. Willy Smith, who is engaged in a scientific dispute with the MUFON hierarchy over the authenticity of UFO photographs taken by a Gulf Breeze businessman known as "Mr. Ed". Despite Mr. Ed's request to suppress his real name, the magazine acknowledges the public revelation of his identity by Dr. Smith. The article notes that while some MUFON officials believe publishing the name would be harmful, "Smear" has decided to withhold it. Mr. Ed is described as a pleasant person, and "Smear" looks forward to meeting him.

The authenticity of "Mr. Ed's" approximately 40 photographs is a central issue. Dr. Smith's scientific analysis casts doubt on many of them, while Dr. Bruce Maccabee and the MUFON hierarchy largely endorse them. The CUFOS hierarchy and many independent researchers lean towards skepticism. Dr. Smith's argument is strengthened by Dr. Maccabee's refusal to provide original photographs for analysis. The article points out specific issues with the photos, such as potential double exposures and a nearby UFO being in focus while distant trees are blurry, suggesting common fluorescent tubing rather than alien craft.

Other Conference Highlights and Personalities

Beyond Dr. Smith's lecture, the magazine highlights an enjoyable experience appearing with Ed Biebel on the Gary Dee talk show. The issue also mentions other attendees and speakers, including John Timmerman (CUFOS), Richard Dell'Aquila, Antonio Huneeus, Ed Biebel, Timothy Green Beckley, Tom Benson, Ron Schaffner, Charles Wilhelm, and Jim Moseley himself as MC. Notable absentees from the Governing Board included Bill Moore, Hal Starr, and Ken Behrendt. Jim Speiser of ParaNet is mentioned as agreeing to host the next year's convention in Phoenix.

The "Ufologist of the Year" award was presented to Tim Beckley for his work with "UFO Universe" magazine. The "Honor Roll" of departed ufological comrades was updated with names like Pete Mazolla, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, and Gray Barker.

Tidbits of Trash

This section covers various brief news items: a fiftieth anniversary celebration of the Orsen Welles "War of the Worlds" broadcast in New Jersey, a Fortean convention in Virginia attended by John Keel, a UFO convention in New York City, and a MUFON mini-convention in Ohio. The editor notes missing these events to attend the Fantasy Fest in Key West.

Scientists from Oxford University reportedly state the Shroud of Turin is a 14th Century fake. Another UFO convention is planned for Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Christa Tilton obtained an annulment from her marriage to ufological contactee Col. Wendelle Stevens.

The issue references a TV special on UFOs, mentioning "Condor" and "Falcon" as alleged MJ-12 informants. "Falcon" is identified as Richard Doty. A paper exposing MJ-12 as a hoax by a CSICOP member is anticipated, suggesting Bill Moore might be involved.

George Fawcett is thanked for listing "Smear" in his sources of worldwide UFO information. Pat Marcattilio's list of out-of-print UFO books is also mentioned. Nuclear physicist Stanton Friedman is noted to accept speaking invitations, having recently spoken at the Global Sciences Congress in Colorado.

Missives From the Masses

This section features correspondence from readers and other figures in the ufology community:

• Jerry Clark (FATE Magazine and CUFOS) criticizes "Smear's" editorial analysis and misrepresentation of his views. He argues that ufologists are not delusional and questions the interpretation of UFOs as extraterrestrial aliens, suggesting that the field is a 'science-in-the-making' or 'protoscience' as defined by J. Gordon Melton, a religious historian.
• Greg Long shares thoughts on the nature of ufology and the term 'secular scientist'. He also mentions Jenny Randles being a transvestite and writing under different names, a fact being exposed by FSR.
• John Barlow is quoted as questioning the value of inventing hoaxes or fronting for frauds, stating that credibility is the only asset a UFO reporter has.
• Phil Klass offers his opinion on "Mr. Ed's" UFO photos, stating they are 90% authentic but that the UFO itself resembles a 1988 model Adamski, possibly made in Hong Kong.
• Bob Willsey advises Phil Klass to hire a linguistics expert, as Roger W. Wescott is reportedly dismantling Klass's anti-UFO arguments.
• Brian Chapman thanks "Smear" for its 'libelous level of invective' and notes the empirical basis of the arguments.
• S & S Toth recommend John Keel's book "Disneyland of the Gods," describing it as a thought-provoking read that weaves together various anomalies and beliefs, though it leaves many questions unanswered.
• Barbara Becker reports on a UFO meeting in St. Louis where Whitley Streiber's work was discussed. She claims Shirley Coyne stated that only about 10% of "Communion" was true, with the rest being fabrication, and that Streiber intended to exploit people's letters for profit.
• Victoria Lacas offers a less enthusiastic view of Whitley Streiber's "Transformation," finding it filled with filler and background material, and questioning the lack of concern from Streiber's wife regarding his and his son's alleged abductions.

Update: Ill Wind from Gulf Breeze

This section details the fallout from the Gulf Breeze case. Dr. Willy Smith has reportedly been demoted within MUFON, becoming a regular subscriber to the MUFON Journal. Ray Fowler and Marge Christensen have resigned from MUFON over the issue, with Christensen taking a "leave of absence." Barry Greenwood (CAUS), Jim Speiser (ParaNet), and Jim Melesciuc have also resigned. Walt Andrus, MUFON's International Czar, initially endorsed the Gulf Breeze case but later backtracked. An article in CUFOS's "C.I.Q." publication, "Hoax UFO Cover-Up Exposed," quotes Dr. Robert Nathan of JPL expressing doubts about the Gulf Breeze photographs. A list of individuals and organizations promoting the "Gulf Breeze UFO Hoax" is provided, including Walt Andrus, Duane Cook, Budd Hopkins, Dr. Bruce Maccabee, and Donald Ware. A form letter from Dan Wright, MUFON's Deputy Director for Investigations, attacks Dr. Willy Smith. Dr. Smith's reply criticizes the perfunctory nature of UFO investigations and the lack of ethics among some researchers.

The Face on Mars - Final Results

This article presents the results of a computer enhancement of a Viking orbiter photograph of the "Face on Mars." The enhanced image is shown to be identical to that of well-known UFO skeptic Philip J. Klass. This revelation has shocked the UFO community. Reactions from various organizations are presented: MUFFIN spokesman expresses shock and plans to grant Klass status on their Board of Consultants; CUZ spokesman calls it a "waste of time" and considers legal action; CUFARCE spokesman notes they had previously observed "classical" features; and CSICO spokesman expresses anger and asks for Klass's resignation, stating he never disclosed his "Martian roots." Klass himself is quoted as saying, "Those idiots! I told them to commemorate me in profile, not face-on!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Saucer Smear" maintains its critical and often skeptical stance towards prominent UFO claims and organizations, particularly MUFON and its handling of the Gulf Breeze case. The editor, Jim Moseley, frequently injects his personal opinions and humor, as seen in his response to Jerry Clark's critique. There is a strong emphasis on exposing perceived flaws, alleged cover-ups, and internal conflicts within the ufology community. The magazine appears to champion independent investigation and critical analysis, often positioning itself against the mainstream views of organizations like MUFON. The "Missives From the Masses" section highlights a diverse range of opinions and criticisms, reflecting the often contentious nature of UFO research. The "Face on Mars" article exemplifies the magazine's tendency towards satirical commentary on well-known figures and phenomena within the field.