Saucer Smear - Vol 40 No 07 - 1993

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Vol. 40, No. 7
Date: September 10th, 1993
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY

This issue of "Saucer Smear" is a non-scheduled newsletter dedicated to ufological journalism. It covers recent events, research, and controversies within the UFO community.

MUFON International Symposium and "Operation Right to Know"

The magazine reports on the 1993 MUFON International Symposium held in Richmond, Virginia, from July 2nd-4th. The event featured speakers from various countries, though "Smear" focused on American speakers. Budd Hopkins spoke on "Invisibility and the UFO Abduction Phenomenon," presenting photos where a family of people did not appear. Linda Napolitano (aka Linda Cortile), described as Budd's "star abductee," was not present at the symposium.

Following the MUFON conference, many attendees participated in the second annual "March on Washington to End UFO Secrecy," also known as "Operation Right to Know." This event, which occurred on Monday, was not officially endorsed by MUFON but was tolerated. Approximately one hundred people participated, picketing the White House and generating publicity for the UFO cause. Ed Komarek, Mike Jamieson, and Elaine Douglass were among the organizers.

Key Speakers and Discussions

Dr. John Mack of Harvard Medical School is highlighted for his lucid discussion on the abduction subject, encouraging a broader concept of reality beyond Western science. George Knapp, a newsman and UFO documentary producer, is praised for his work investigating Bob Lazar of "Area 51" fame. Knapp has interviewed numerous individuals who claim knowledge of "alien technology" similar to Lazar's story.

John Schuessler presented the case of Eddie Doyle Webb, a truck driver injured by a UFO years ago, whose case was not to be publicized until after his death. The issue also mentions a controversy regarding Bob Oechsler's potential inclusion on the lecture program, which was reportedly blocked by "Powers That Be" (Walt Andrus).

Linda Howe, known for her work on cattle mutilation, provided entertaining accounts, including three Alabama ladies who watched a UFO videotape while the objects were still visible in the sky.

MUFON Internal Dynamics

The magazine notes that as MUFON's membership grows (around 4500), tensions between "conservatives" and the "New Age wing" are becoming more apparent. The firing of Donald Ware is cited as an example. Maverick researcher George Hansen is quoted discussing this problem, criticizing Walt Andrus's leadership and suggesting members reconsider their support for MUFON.

Miscellaneous Ravings and "The Fund for CIA Research"

This section discusses an anonymous 14-page tract titled "The Fund for CIA Research, or Who's Disinforming Whom?" circulated by an organization called "Associated Investigators Group." The tract aims to discredit Dr. Bruce Maccabee, former chairman of the Fund for UFO Research, by suggesting his affiliation with the CIA. Maccabee has responded with a 16-page paper called "HOT AIR," defending himself and stating his CIA association is based on his Navy work, unrelated to UFO research.

The tract also targets Bill Moore, who admitted in 1989 to not being entirely candid with the public. Moore's recent attempt to explain his side is published in "The Excluded Middle" magazine.

Upcoming Events and Publications

• Several upcoming UFO events are listed:
• National UFO Conference: October 15-17, 1993, at the Days Inn in Bordentown, New Jersey. Speakers include David Huggins, Bob Oechsler, Timothy Green Beckly, Dr. Frank Stranges, George Hansen, Tom Benson, Rick Hilburg, Jim Moseley, Pat Marcattilio, and Alice Haggerty.
• The UFO Experience: October 9-10, Holiday Inn, North Haven, Connecticut.
• Gulf Breeze UFO Conference: October 22-24, Clarion Suites Convention Center, Pensacola Beach, Florida.

• New publications are also mentioned:
• "Crash at Corona" by Stanley T. Friedman and Don Berliner.
• "Extraterrestrial Friends and Foes" by George C. Andrews.
• "Into the Crystal" by Dr. Berthold Schwarz, featuring Peter Sugleris.

Letters to the Editor and Reader Contributions

• Several individuals contribute letters:
• Bill Moore comments on the Zechel diatribe against himself and Maccabee.
• Tom McIver critiques "Klass's" reasoning and associates it with Randi's trial.
• Phil Klass challenges Tom McIver to a wager regarding the authenticity of a letter.
• Sheila Franklin reports on a radio talk show host, Rick Syderman, who reportedly bested Phil Klass in a verbal exchange.
• Robert Anton Wilson reflects on ufology, perception, and memory, drawing parallels to ancient mythologies.
• George Hansen clarifies his views on the Linda Napolitano case, applauding her contribution to ufology.
• Christopher Allan suggests methods to confirm Linda's abduction story, such as verifying alien writing or star maps.
• George Knapp expresses his honor at being featured in "Saucer Smear."
• Kris Ferguson questions the concept of aliens being sexless and praises Phil Klass and Christa Tilton.
• Gary Hemphill inquires about a faded photograph and mentions the lack of "franked mail" for "Smear."
• Dick Freeman speculates on why aliens might avoid landing on the White House lawn.

Other Content

The issue includes a brief mention of an obituary for Orfeo Angelucci, an early UFO contactee. There is also a short news item about "Roach-eaters give up bugs - because of pesticides!" and a cartoon titled "Honey, we've got alien Visitors!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Saucer Smear" exhibits a critical and often skeptical stance towards certain figures and organizations within the UFO community, particularly those perceived as involved in disinformation or lacking scientific rigor. The editor, James W. Moseley, frequently injects his personal opinions and challenges established narratives. There is a strong emphasis on investigative journalism, exposing perceived inconsistencies, and encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. The magazine also highlights upcoming events and publications, serving as a hub for information and discussion within the ufological field. The editorial stance appears to favor robust debate and a questioning approach to claims, even while acknowledging the complexity and often elusive nature of the UFO phenomenon.