Saucer Smear - Vol 40 No 01 - 1993

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 40, No. 1
Date: January 10th, 1993
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: US
Language: English

This issue of SAUCER SMEAR marks the beginning of its 40th year in publication, a milestone celebrated by editor James W. Moseley, who also serves as the President of the SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY (S.A.U.C.E.R.S.). Moseley, self-appointed as an "Elder Statesman" of ufology, recounts the publication's history, which began in July 1954 as 'Nexus' with co-founders August C. Roberts and the late Dominick Lucchesi. Despite S.A.U.C.E.R.S. being a largely mythical organization with Moseley as its sole active member, he asserts it is the oldest UFO research group in the United States, and possibly the world.

Publication History and Evolution

The publication's name changed from 'Nexus' to 'SAUCER NEWS' in 1955. It was published as a quarterly zine until 1968 when it was sold to the late Gray Barker. Circulation reportedly peaked at around 10,000 in 1967. Barker continued 'SAUCER NEWS' until 1970. After this, Moseley, though not 'hushed up', continued lecturing on UFOs and engaging in other ufological activities. In 1976, a comeback was planned with a small newsletter designed to focus on gossip and opinions within the UFO field, rather than sightings, to be distributed free to seriously interested parties. This newsletter initially retained the name 'SAUCER NEWS' but changed titles frequently in its early years before settling into an 8-page format. In July 1981, following a suggestion by Erik Beckjord, the permanent title "Saucer Smear" was adopted to reflect its sarcastic approach.

Reflections on Forty Years in Ufology

Moseley reflects on the fun had over the past forty years, including facing lawsuits (most notably from the Amazing Randi, though never sued). He mentions engaging in hoaxes, such as the "Straith Letter" sent to George Adamski in 1957, and exploring various ufological theories like the "Earth Theory," the interplanetary theory, and the "little-men-from-Mars" theory, later humorously modified to a "3-D Theory." Despite the lightheartedness, Moseley emphasizes a serious purpose: to encourage critical thinking and questioning of unproven assumptions. The publication has both attacked and defended believers and debunkers alike.

Recent "exclusives" include the story on the incarceration of Col. Wendelle Stevens and a series on James Randi, as well as an analysis suggesting Dr. Donald Menzel could not have been a member of the MJ-12 group. Moseley admits the publication is not unbiased but has created a forum by publishing opposing viewpoints, aiming to entertain and enlighten.

He observes that the "middle" of ufological belief has shifted significantly, with stories once considered too extreme now being routinely accepted. 'Saucer Smear' consciously avoids supermarket tabloids, deeming their content "cheap shots," and focuses primarily on the activities and opinions of leading ufologists in the U.S., rather than the overseas scene.

Current Events and Controversies

The issue highlights current distress over UFO guru Jerry Clark's involvement in "highly emotional, non-productive feuds" with CSICOP members Phil Klass and Dr. Gary Posner, as well as Dr. Willy Smith, George Hansen, and others. These disputes occur in private "pass-arounds." Moseley expresses a mystery as to why professionally-trained individuals engage in such behavior and states that while the issues are complex, the irrationality displayed by some leaders makes their viewpoints unworthy of comment, despite appreciating being on the "pass-around" lists.

Philosophical Musings and the Nature of UFOs

Moseley concludes that after forty years, no "Great Truths" have been definitively learned. His current view is that UFOs are part of a spectrum of "Fortean events" that are largely unsolvable, suggesting the Universe is far more complex than commonly imagined. He posits that ufologists may never solve the UFO mystery because it is intertwined with the fundamental mysteries of human life, such as origins and destiny, which are often addressed by religious faith rather than science.

He offers a speculative theory from a Time Magazine article: that Earth might be a "zoo for extraterrestrial beings" who planted the seeds of evolution and occasionally intervene. Moseley encourages readers to continue exploring ufology, but "not too seriously."

Hoax Scoreboard

A "Hoax Scoreboard" is presented as a public service by the UNICAT Project, summarizing famous hoaxes without comment. It lists "Majestic 12," "Gulf Breeze," and "Plains of S. Agustin Manhattan Transfer" with perpetrators, sponsors, motivations (fame, money, secret agenda), and outcomes (forged documents, fake photos, false evidence, or a question mark). The note clarifies that the chart is for entertainment value only and is "For Mature Adults Only."

Miscellaneous Ravings and Letters to the Editor

Hal Starr's Retirement: The newsletter notes the retirement of Hal Starr, former MUFON Director for Arizona, to Mexico due to poor health. Starr was instrumental in Moseley joining MUFON. Moseley acknowledges his gratitude for Starr's help, which led to his current position as Assistant State Section Director for Monroe County, Florida. Starr was also a member of the National UFO Conference (NUFOC) governing board, where Moseley is Permanent Chairman.

NUFOC Board Changes: Ed Komarek has replaced Hal Starr on the NUFOC governing board, joining other members like Rick Hilberg, Al Manak, Tim Beckley, Pat Marcattilio, Bill Moore, Antonio Huneeus, and Tom Benson. The annual NUFOC convention is planned near Trenton, N.J.

Budd Hopkins and Linda Napolitano: A rumor suggests that Dan, one of the alleged government agents involved in the Linda Napolitano abduction case, has met an "untimely death." The newsletter also includes a letter from Richard Boylan, a psychologist, to Robert Bigelow, warning that Budd Hopkins and David Jacobs are providing "therapists' workshops" without proper qualifications, potentially exposing Bigelow to liability.

Dr. Stephen Kurzwell Case: The issue references a New York Post article from November 22, 1992, about Dr. Stephen Kurzwell, a physician who claimed aliens kidnapped him. Despite his beliefs, his license was not revoked. Budd Hopkins reportedly testified against Kurzwell, despite previously being described as a "professional UFO chaser." Kurzwell's theory involves Nazi contact with aliens and a deal with the U.S. government for technological benefits in exchange for abductees.

TREAT V Conference: Information is provided about the TREAT V conference on Anomalous Trauma, scheduled for March 18-21 in Santa Fe, N.M., with Dr. Rima Laibow and Dr. John Alexander as chairs. Alexander is rumored to be engaged to ufologist Victoria Lacas.

• New Publications and Books: Several publications and books are mentioned:
• "UFO Encounters," a zine from Aztec Publishing.
• Armand Laprade's magazine (subscription issues).
• "UFOs in the New York Times, 1947-1987," a 120-page book available for $20.
• "Arktos: The Polar Myth in Science, Symbolism, and Nazi Survival" by Joscelyn Godwin, available from Phanes Press for $20.

Letters to the Editor:

• Robert Anton Wilson: Questions Jerry Clark's explanation regarding the alleged crimes against Linda Napolitano, particularly why evidence isn't reported to law enforcement if a "Conspiracy" is involved. He contrasts this with whistleblowers like Detective Serpico and "Deep Throat."
• Curt Sutherly: Expresses skepticism about the Linda Napolitano story, suggesting a police investigation would quickly reveal its falsity.
• Greg Long: Praises Moseley for exposing the work of Budd Hopkins, calling the abduction case "ridiculous" and lacking "significant dramatic content" or "scientific value." He doubts the existence of a high-placed government official involved and criticizes the "bozo 'cops'" in the case.
• K. Ryan: Inquires about 'Pursuit' Magazine, describing it as an "indy-scientific journal of SITU," and notes Bob Warth's cheerful demeanor. The editor clarifies that 'Pursuit' is not the correct name and Warth is still cheerful.
• Christopher Allan: Questions the credibility of Major Jesse Marcel's testimony regarding the Roswell incident, suggesting his memory was "refreshed" by Moore and Friedman in 1979 after initially not recalling key details in 1978. He points out Marcel's failure to keep press reports if the experience was so momentous.
• Michael Dobbs: Expresses joy at the prospect of Bill Moore's "Fair Witness Project" becoming operational again and inquires about its status and subscription issues. He acknowledges Moore's contributions to UFO research but urges him to fulfill subscription obligations.
• Carol Salisberry: Defends Ed Walters, stating that while MUFON gave him "carte blanche with his hoax," he hurt people by slandering Nick Mock and making life miserable for others. She questions the necessity of his actions.
• John Keel: Is described as having carved an odd niche as a UFO expert. A quote from Keel criticizes Ed for slandering Tommy Smith and his parents, and for forcing his son to cover up "the Big Lie."
• Jim Oberg: Submits a terse, insulting comment regarding STS-48, expressing frustration with E. Beckjord's "misconceptions and delusions." He dismisses Richard Hoagland's theories as "consistently wrong" and offers advice to those frustrated by irrational explanations: "It's time to stop stomping on the flames, and instead go get the marshmallows." Oberg also offers a technical memo refuting the "Star Wars" interpretation of the STS-48 video.
• Gary Hemphill: Thanks Moseley for keeping him informed about ufology. He notes the absence of a firewalk at a past NUFOC conference and questions if firewalking is related to alien abduction. He also points out the surname similarity between the new Senator from Illinois and the "Commander" (Moseley) and asks if this connection will be exploited.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'Saucer Smear' embodies its self-proclaimed "sarcastic approach" to ufology. Recurring themes include the questioning of authority and established narratives, the critique of prominent figures in the UFO community (such as Budd Hopkins and Jerry Clark), and the exposure of hoaxes and questionable claims. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards sensationalism, particularly from tabloid sources, while still engaging deeply with the complexities and controversies within the field. Moseley emphasizes critical thinking and a willingness to explore unconventional ideas, but always with a degree of detachment and a focus on the underlying philosophical questions about existence and the nature of reality. The publication positions itself as a forum for open discussion, even when that discussion involves criticism and disagreement among its readership and contributors.