Saucer Smear - Vol 53 No 08 - 2006

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 53, No. 8
Date: September 1st, 2006
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Editor: James W. Moseley

This issue of "Saucer Smear" is dedicated to the principles of ufological journalism and features a collection of articles, news briefs, and reader contributions covering a wide range of paranormal and unexplained phenomena.

Cryptoterrestrial Hypothesis and Paranormal Interpretations

The issue opens with a discussion of Mac Tonnies' "Cryptoterrestrial Hypothesis (CTH)", described as a "unified field theory" for the paranormal. Tonnies posits that encounters with non-human beings are not necessarily extraterrestrial but may involve an indigenous, stealthy species that adapts its appearance to human expectations. This hypothesis is presented as a potential explanation for phenomena ranging from 1890s airship sightings to modern UFO reports, suggesting that some sightings might be "high-tech disinformation" campaigns.

Roswell Incident and Museum News

The "Roswell Grinds On" section reports on the 59th anniversary celebration of the Roswell Incident, which coincided with the local Independence Day. The International UFO Museum's director, Julie Shuster, attempted to prevent a local church from holding a separate fireworks display that might detract from the festival. The article also mentions a humorous incident at the museum involving a staged alien abduction as part of a marriage proposal.

The Mysterious Moon

A section titled "Miscellaneous Ravings" discusses the book "Who Built the Moon?" by Christopher Knight and Alan Butler. The authors suggest the Moon may not have a solid core and exhibits anomalous behavior, such as mirroring the Sun's movements. They conclude that the Moon might have been engineered to support life on Earth, arguing that its precise characteristics are essential for intelligent life to exist.

Debates within Ufology: Strieber vs. MUFON

The issue highlights "Bad Blood" between UFO guru Whitley Strieber and the MUFON hierarchy. An Australian ufologist claimed Strieber's wife confessed that his writings were fictional. Strieber expressed annoyance at MUFON's tendency to view the alien phenomenon strictly as "nuts and bolts" visitations. MUFON czar John Schuessler responded, defending MUFON's investigative mission and wishing Strieber well with his new book. The article also notes the upcoming retirement of John Schuessler and his wife from MUFON, with James Carrion set to take over.

Skeptical Radio and Other Cases

The magazine mentions Rick Wood, host of a syndicated skeptical radio talk show sponsored by CSICOP, whose aim is to debunk paranormal claims. It also touches upon the Cash-Landrum UFO case, noting Schuessler's past refusal to release medical records of a witness.

Crop Circles and Other Phenomena

Reports on crop circles include an incident where an English farmer was attacked by people who came to see a "near-perfect" circle. The emergence of a "3-D" crop circle in England is discussed, with speculation that it might emanate from another dimension. However, the overall crop circle season in England was slow. An obscure area in Hungary also hosted a "giant set of crop circles."

News Briefs and Book Reviews

News briefs cover the cancellation of the NUFOC conference for 2006 and plans for a future convention focused on abductions. A review of Karl Pflock's book "Shockingly Close to the Truth! Confessions of a Grave-Robbing Ufologist" is mentioned. The Raelian cult's activities, including building a landing strip for extraterrestrials, are also noted.

SETI and Bigfoot

An article questions the thoroughness of SETI's search for extraterrestrial life, suggesting that only a few radio telescopes are involved and do not devote significant time to the project. A brief news item about a Bigfoot sighting in California is included, along with information about a legal battle involving Bigfoot researcher Thomas Biscardi.

Loch Ness Monster and Planetary Science

A technological boost for the hunt for the Loch Ness Monster is reported, with a webcamera installed in the loch. The article also notes that science is considering changing the number of planets in the solar system from 9 to 12, referencing George Adamski's past claims about 12 inhabited planets.

Letters to the Editor and Tributes

Several letters to the editor are featured. Researcher Curt Sutherly writes a tribute to the late Karl Pflock, praising his tenacity and work ethic. John Barlow reflects on the passing of Karl Pflock and expresses appreciation for "Saucer Smear" continuing publication. Kevin Henderson also mourns Karl Pflock's death, calling it a loss for ufology.

Ralph Coon and Bob Wilkinson

Ralph Coon's film "Whispers from Space" is criticized for its non-altruistic approach and perceived lack of quality. Bob Wilkinson is working on a new documentary about Gray Barker.

John Lennon, Uri Geller, and UFOs

Chris Roth discusses the story of John Lennon and Uri Geller, referencing Michael Luckman's book "Alien Rock." The article notes Lennon's interest in UFOs and other reports of sightings.

Billy Meier Photos and Gene Steinberg

Gene Steinberg challenges the explanation of Billy Meier's UFO photos, asserting they have been exposed as frauds, a claim that the Meier cult reportedly denies.

Jury Duty and Roswell

Parapsychologist George Hansen recounts being dismissed from jury duty after mentioning "Saucer Smear" as a magazine he reads, speculating about the prosecutor's potential knowledge of the publication.

Cartoon Caption Contest

Matt Graeber proposes a cartoon caption contest for "Saucer Smear," inviting readers to submit captions for uncaptioned cartoons, with a prize for the winning entry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Saucer Smear" revolve around ufology, the paranormal, and skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, while also critically examining claims and engaging in debates within the ufology community. There is a clear interest in exploring alternative hypotheses, such as the Cryptoterrestrial Hypothesis, and in documenting various sightings and incidents. The publication also features contributions from researchers and readers, fostering a sense of community among those interested in these subjects. The editor, James W. Moseley, is presented as a long-standing figure in the field, and the magazine's continuation is seen as important by some contributors. The publication also seems to have a critical eye towards certain aspects of the paranormal field, as seen in the discussions about Billy Meier's photos and the skepticism towards astrology.