Saucer Smear - Vol 44 No 01 - 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 44, No. 1
Date: January 10th, 1997
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY

This issue of "Saucer Smear" presents a collection of articles, news items, and personal opinions on ufology and related paranormal phenomena. The publication, edited by James W. Moseley, aims to uphold the "highest principles of ufological journalism" and is characterized by its direct and often critical commentary on various figures and events within the UFO community.

Miscellaneous Ravings

The "Miscellaneous Ravings" section begins with an announcement about the availability of a 105-minute documentary film titled "Whispers from Space" about the life of ufologist Gray Barker. The film, made by Hollywood lighting expert Ralph Coon, premiered in Charleston, West Virginia, in March 1995 and features the "Smear" editor. Coon is also noted for publishing an artsy zine called "The Last Prom" and is working on an issue about William Fuld, the inventor of the ouija board.

UFO Research and Controversies

The issue delves into several ongoing debates and research efforts within ufology. It discusses Michael Hesemann's article in "Nexus" magazine, which attempts to support the authenticity of the alien autopsy film, though the author points out perceived mistakes, particularly regarding Colman VonKeviczky's credentials.

James Randi's online disputes are highlighted, including his conflict with "Riley G" and Earl Curley over an alleged "blackmail tape." The article notes that Curley has posted parts of the tape online, which Randi claims was made at the request of local police and the phone company. Randi is also suing Curley.

Uri Geller's purported psychic abilities are also mentioned, with claims that he has identified the location of a missing fuel pump related to the TWA Flight 800 crash and suggested it was brought down by a bomb.

Notable Cases and Investigations

The "haunted ranch" near Fort Duchesne, Utah, is revisited. The former owner, Terry Sherman, reported UFO sightings, mutilated cows, and unusual soil impressions during his 18 months there. Millionaire investigator Robert Bigelow purchased the ranch for approximately $200,000 for investigation by his National Institute of Discovery Science. John Alexander, a non-lethal weapons expert, is involved in this venture.

Ed Walters, author of "UFOs Are Real: Here's the Proof," is releasing a third book, co-authored with Dr. Bruce Maccabee. The book updates the Gulf Breeze case and includes UFO photos.

A report from a UFO convention in Philadelphia, attended by Matt Graeber, notes that only 300-400 people attended, far short of the break-even number. Notable speakers included Zecharia Sitchin, Travis Walton, and Al Bielek.

Book Reviews and Mentions

Several books are highlighted: "UFO Danger Zone - Terror and Death in Brazil" by Bob Pratt, recommended for its coverage of potentially dangerous UFO encounters in Brazil. "TOP SECRET/MAJIC" by Stanton Friedman is mentioned, with the publication noting an "uncorrected proof" was received. John Keel's "Operation Trojan Horse" is reissued, and two contactee-style books, "Alien Magic: UFO Crashes - Abductions - Underground Bases" by William Hamilton III and "Earth Changes Bible" by Diane Tessman, are also noted.

"UFO Healing" by Preston Dennett is mentioned as a book about extraterrestrials who reportedly cure diseases. A booklet titled "UFO and Paranormal Phenomena Sourcebook of Old, Rare and Out of Print Magazines and Publications" is also available.

Mail Bag and Commentary

The "Mail Bag" section features correspondence from various individuals. Phil Klass questions Stan Friedman's withholding of names of Ufologists who allegedly accept MJ-12 documents. Robert Todd strongly criticizes Friedman's book on MJ-12, calling it "boring" and "poorly written."

Christa Tilton comments on William Moore's teachings, suggesting he is a "money grubber" and has lost respectability. Paul Fisher corrects a previous statement about Colonel McCoy's role in Air Force Intelligence and argues that evidence from the Roswell incident, such as descriptions of "metal foils" and "balsa wood," indicates that physical evidence of an unidentified flying object was recovered.

Jerome Clark shares his thoughts on the "UFO Encyclopedia" and the dynamics within the ufological community. Alexander Mebane suggests Phil Klass deserves the Isabel Davis Award for his contributions to UFO research and expresses skepticism about Budd Hopkins' "Witnessed" case.

Robert Anton Wilson offers a perspective on conspiracy theories, noting that those involving UFOs are often the least rational. Karl Pflock critiques the use of the title "Professor UFO" by Pat Marcatileo.

Tidbits of Trash

This section includes various brief news items: a rumor about Budd Hopkins marrying Linda Cortile is debunked; Erik Beckjord's business card is mentioned; the death of Carl Sagan is noted, with a brief commentary on his UFO opinions; and an announcement for "The UFO Event of the Year" and the Roswell 50th anniversary celebration.

Other Contributions

John Merrell renews his subscription, praising Matt Graeber's work while criticizing the rest of the publication. Ann Druffel finds the "negative info" in UFO reports valuable. Bill Howard discusses the Varginha, Brazil incident, suggesting it involved a secret military aircraft. Gene Buck presents a theory about Aaron Burr's ancestry, suggesting he was sired by aliens.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Saucer Smear" include the ongoing debates and controversies surrounding prominent figures in ufology, the critical examination of UFO-related books and films, and the reporting of various UFO sightings and alleged encounters. The editorial stance, as expressed by James W. Moseley and through the selection of content, is one of critical inquiry, skepticism towards sensationalism, and a focus on what the editor deems "ufological journalism."