SAUCER SMEAR

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 41, No. 3
Date: April Fool's Day, 1994
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Editor and Still Supreme Commander: James W. Moseley

This issue of "Saucer Smear" is a non-scheduled newsletter that continues its critical examination of ufology and its prominent figures. The publication, known for its direct and often provocative commentary, features a mix of editorial opinions, reader contributions, and news items related to UFO phenomena.

Editorial Stance and Key Articles

Critique of John Keel

The lead editorial, penned by James W. Moseley, strongly criticizes John Keel, a respected ufologist, for statements made in the "Afterword" of his 1973 book. Moseley refutes Keel's attribution of 'crashed saucer' and 'captured little men' hoaxes to Gray Barker and Moseley himself, asserting that such events never occurred. Moseley clarifies that while Barker and he were involved in the "Straith Letter" hoax concerning George Adamski, the 'little men' stories were popularized by Frank Scully in his 1950 book "Behind the Flying Saucers," not by Ray Palmer in 1945 as Keel suggested. Moseley also dismisses Keel's "Fugo Balloon" theory regarding the Roswell incident.

The Roswell Incident Debate

The Roswell incident remains a focal point, with multiple perspectives presented. Tom Benson, former MUFON Director for New Jersey, offers a detailed account of an alleged UFO crash in July 1947, describing a 'heel-shaped lifting body' containing Rhesus monkeys undergoing experimental testing. He posits that the initial military press release about a flying saucer, and the later explanation of a weather balloon, were cover stories for a failed experimental program amidst 'Cold War' hysteria. Conversely, Don Webb suggests a weather balloon from Ganymede, operated by 'Fugo Oswald,' crashed near Roswell, and that Oswald, later known as Monty Cantsin, shot JFK in protest.

UFO Research Organizations and Hoaxes

The newsletter touches upon various UFO research organizations. Simone Mendez is featured for an article titled "UFO Organizations Exposed," which critiques MUFON and CUFOS. The issue also mentions the Fund for UFO Research (FUFOR) and its collection of Roswell witness testimonies, noting that some witnesses were deceased or uncooperative. The Borderland Science Research Foundation (BSRF), founded by Meade Layne, is described as the oldest UFO-oriented organization, though its focus on "4-D" aspects is deemed unacceptable by the establishment.

Personal Accounts and Reviews

Several individuals share their experiences and opinions. Jerome Clark's new book, "UFO Encounters & Beyond," is mentioned, with a reference to Moseley as an editor. Bob Girard of Arcturus Books is criticized for his negative review of Ed and Frances Walters' book, "UFO Abductions in Gulf Breeze." Moseley defends "Saucer Smear's" review, stating that Walters' book did not sell well and that Walters exhibits an 'egomanical streak.'

Other Noteworthy Items

• Phil Klass writes to refute claims that he attempted to dissuade publishers from printing Ed Walters' book, clarifying that Zan Overall acted independently.
• Michael D. Dobbs questions the analysis of material found under Ed Walters' fingernails after an alleged abduction experience.
• Ingo Swann, known for "Remote Viewing," praises "Saucer Smear" for its literate content.
• William Moore corrects reports that the Fair-Witness Project was closed down and disputes the date of the FBI/Roswell telex, asserting it was July 8, 1947, not July 6.
• Christopher Allan stands by his previous statements on Roswell and the FBI teletype.
• Robert Wanderer proposes an alternative theory for the Fugo balloon's appearance in New Mexico.
• George Hansen recommends Holger Kalweit's book "Dreamtime & Inner Space: The World of the Shaman" for its UFO phenomena discussions.
• Barbara Becker speculates that Bob Lazar's knowledge of a secret base might stem from surveillance tapes from brothels.
• Martin Cannon criticizes the treatment of fellow ufologists, calling for ethical procedures and an end to personal attacks.
• Tom Burch draws parallels between Moseley and Howard Stern, noting their controversial styles and shared characteristics.

Advertisements and Announcements

The issue includes advertisements for the Tampa UFO Convention, featuring speakers like Zecharia Sitchin and Stanton Friedman. It also promotes "Saucer Smear" back issues and a video tape by Robert Anton Wilson titled "Fear in the Night: Demons, Incest and UFOs." A peculiar advertisement for a "Belly Button Guardian" from "Singularity" is also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

"Saucer Smear" consistently adopts a critical and often contrarian stance within the UFO community. The publication frequently challenges established narratives, exposes perceived hoaxes, and scrutinizes the credibility of prominent figures and organizations. James W. Moseley, as editor, champions a form of "ufological journalism" that prioritizes skepticism and a rigorous, albeit sometimes abrasive, pursuit of truth. The newsletter appears to revel in controversy, aiming to provoke discussion and challenge the prevailing "UFO Religion." Themes of deception, misrepresentation, and the subjective nature of evidence are recurrent, underscoring Moseley's commitment to debunking what he views as unsubstantiated claims while still engaging with the unexplained.