Saucer Smear - Vol 39 No 03 - 1992

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 39, No. 3
Date: April 15th, 1992
Publisher: SAUCER AND UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY

This issue of "Saucer Smear" details significant personnel changes, controversial figures, and ongoing debates within the ufology community.

James Moseley Resigns as Editor

James Moseley has resigned as editor of "Saucer Smear", effective immediately. He is succeeded by "OISEAU", described as a close companion with a remarkably similar writing style. Moseley's current whereabouts are unknown, but he is rumored to be in an unheated igloo in the foothills overlooking Nome, Alaska. This sudden resignation was reportedly triggered by a series of threats, including death threats, lawsuit threats, and miscellaneous threats, from William Knell, an obscure Long Island UFO researcher. Knell, who was arrested in New York City in 1984 for selling illegal guns, is described as potentially dangerous and is engaged in feuds with several other prominent UFO figures, including John Ford, Antonio Huneeus, and Colman Keviczky.

Knell's recent troubles stem from his alleged selling of video tapes that do not legally belong to him. His issue with "Saucer Smear" arose from the magazine printing material that called attention to his questionable activities, although "Saucer Smear" had previously printed several of Knell's letters.

Bill Cooper's Behavior and Theories

The issue features a report on controversial ufologist Bill Cooper's lecture at a recent UFO convention in San Diego, California. Cooper concluded his lecture with the phrase "WAKE THE FUCK UP!", referring to the supposed fact that Americans are unaware of the "New World Order" gradually taking away their freedom. His closing remarks led to a confrontation with cryptozoologist Erik Beckjord, with whom Cooper had been drinking heavily. The two men became physically involved at a farewell convention party after Beckjord showed a video that Cooper claimed belonged to him. Cooper reportedly "flipped out" and called Beckjord names, and they grappled. The situation escalated when Beckjord mentioned Cooper's "near-death experience" and the amputation of one of his legs, which had occurred in 1977.

Cooper is described as having a pattern of bizarre behavior, including leaving numerous threatening phone messages on his ex-partner's answering machine after a business partnership dissolved. A friend at the convention described Cooper as "a very troubled man."

Cooper's theories suggest that UFOs are not interplanetary but are a government hoax designed to prepare the country for the "New World Order." He is reportedly furious at Jerome Clark for allegedly calling him anti-Semitic in a recent FATE Magazine article. Cooper does not blame Jews for the "great conspiracy" but rather the shadowy "Illuminati."

Area 51 Video Footage

Cooper has reportedly been showing video film taken in February in "Area 51" in Nevada, which is described as "by far the best ever!" This film allegedly duplicates almost all the performance characteristics of legendary UFOs. The night shots were taken from the edge of a U.S. Government test site, and the exact location is no longer secret. The article provides directions to Area 51, cautioning visitors about government surveillance and potential dangers.

Other UFO Researchers and Conventions

The issue briefly comments on speakers at the San Diego and Bordentown conventions. Bill Lear is mentioned as lecturing again, discussing his belief in alien visitations and praising Bob Lazar. Christian Page is also mentioned as a speaker.

Tidbits of Trash

This section addresses several points: Phil Klass has not responded to a letter questioning his bringing up Ed Walters' forgery conviction. Erie night-time UFOs with porthole-type lights are still being seen in Gulf Breeze, Florida. The former editor plans to visit Gulf Breeze again. Non-subscriber Paris Flammonde is interested in JFK assassination books.

Correspondence and Book Reviews

Greg Long writes about completing a book proposal that will have a "disturbing effect on conventional ufology and Bigfootology." William Knell sends a vulgar and threatening letter in response to "Saucer Smear" publishing his correspondence and calling attention to his activities. "OPEN FILE" (TOFCCN) alleges that Knell may have been hired by "Uncle Sam" to disrupt UFO interests and that a show produced by TOFCCN will "PUT A DAMPER on Mr. Knell."

Robert Anton Wilson writes to "Jim" (presumably Moseley), criticizing Robert Sheaffer's analysis and discussing his own theories on religion and skepticism. He also mentions his book "The New Inquisition."

Barry Greenwood, editor of "Just Cause," is discussed in relation to his views on UFO interest decline and elitism in ufology, contrasting with Jerry Clark of CUFOS. Greenwood is also the editor of "UFO Historical Review."

Gene Steinberg writes about his decision to concentrate on paying rent and putting his magazine "Caveat Emptor" on hold, arranging for another magazine to fulfill subscriptions.

Contactee Howard Menger sends a news release about his recent trip to Cairo, Stockholm, and Oslo.

Other Mentions

Stan Friedman writes a letter to Jim Moseley, enclosing his rebuttal to an article by Tom Carey about Anderson and Buskirk. Friedman criticizes Kevin Randle for accusing Anderson, Barnett, and himself of lying, and for misinterpreting the MJ-12 Briefing. He also mentions his upcoming non-fiction book "Crash at Corona" with Don Berliner.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Saucer Smear" reflects a critical and often skeptical stance towards certain figures and claims within the UFO community, while also engaging with controversial topics and personalities. There is a strong emphasis on investigative journalism, exposing alleged hoaxes, and questioning the credibility of researchers. The magazine appears to be dedicated to uncovering what it considers the truth, even if it is "shockingly close" to it, and is not afraid to engage in disputes and criticisms of prominent figures in the field. The editorial stance seems to favor a rigorous examination of evidence and a healthy dose of skepticism, particularly regarding claims of alien visitation and government cover-ups, while still acknowledging the enduring mystery of the UFO phenomenon.