Saucer Smear - Vol 55 No 04 - 2008

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 55, No. 4 (Whole Number 410)
Date: April 20th, 2008
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of "Saucer Smear" announces a significant addition to its staff: Dr. Chris Roth, a social/cultural anthropologist, has joined as a Contributing Editor. The magazine highlights his unique perspective, which focuses on understanding UFO phenomena through the lens of human culture, folklore, and linguistics. Dr. Roth, who holds a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, describes himself as a skeptic, neither a "True Believer" nor a "Debunker." He is seen as the "Designated Successor" to the current editor, James W. Moseley, who is 76 years old.

New Staff and Editorial Direction

The editorial section introduces Dr. Chris Roth, detailing his academic background and his approach to ufology. It also acknowledges the contributions of Vince Ditchkus, another Contributing Editor, who is an information technology specialist with an interest in Fortean phenomena since the 1960s. The magazine expresses gratitude for their efforts and notes that Dr. Roth will help preserve the publication's unique flavor and format.

News Briefies and Exposés

The Alien Autopsy Film Exposed

A major focus of this issue is the debunking of the infamous "Alien Autopsy Video." British ufologist Philip Mantle is credited with attempting to close the lid on this "ludicrous offshoot of the Roswell Incident." The article states that the film, initially claimed to be from 1947 and obtained from an American military photographer, was later admitted by its proponent, Ray Santilli, to have been "re-shot" due to deterioration of the original. The magazine asserts that "there never was any original film," calling the entire affair a "money-grubbing fraud." The authors recall attending a UFO conference where the video was continuously played, and humorously recount eating chili during a scene depicting the "alien's" insides.

Giant Bird Sighting in West Virginia

Investigator Stan Gordon reports a strange encounter from West Virginia. A witness driving on a rural road at 8 a.m. on October 1st of the previous year saw a giant bird, described as at least four feet tall with a wingspan of approximately 21 feet, feeding on a possum. The bird had dark brown or black feathers, a long, crooked neck, and a prominent yellowish-orange collar. Its wings were attached like human arms to a muscular torso. The creature took off with an awkward gait. The incident lasted only 10-15 seconds, with no other witnesses or proof. The article speculates if this could be the legendary Mothman.

Val Thor and the "Stranger at the Pentagon"

The magazine revisits the case of Val Thor, described as a supposed extraterrestrial captain of a starship. Previously associated with Frank Stranges' book "Stranger at the Pentagon," it is mentioned that a major motion picture adaptation was anticipated. However, a new claim has emerged from Patti Jeanne Spencer, who alleges she married Val Thor in 1950 in Hawaii. This predates Stranges' claims of hearing about Thor. Spencer is concerned about "sex scenes" from her alleged union being used in a movie for profit. The article notes the discrepancy in timelines and expresses skepticism about the claims.

Retro UFO 3 Conference

This issue highlights the "Retro UFO 3" conference scheduled for April 26th-27th at the "Integratron" in Landers, California. Speakers include Nick Redfern, Stanton Friedman, Guy Malone, George Noory, Paul Kimball, Greg Bishop, and Bob Short. The event is noted for its connection to George Van Tassel's annual conventions at Giant Rock, which were known for contactees and ufological gatherings.

"Interview with a Snake"

An article from "Fate Magazine" titled "Interview with a Snake" is discussed. It features an interview with a five-foot boa constrictor conducted by an "animal communicator." The snake reportedly speaks intelligently, advocating for tolerance and respect for snakes. The magazine notes that while this is an unusual item, "Fate Magazine" has historically published material by Fortean researchers.

Raelians and Clitoris Reconstruction

The Raelian UFO cult is reported to be involved in a new initiative: offering clitoris reconstruction surgery in Africa. The cult has recruited Marci Bowers, a surgeon specializing in sex-change operations, to perform these procedures. While framed as a humanitarian effort to reverse female genital mutilation, the magazine finds the subject "rather sickening."

Herbert Schirmer Abduction Case

Greg Bishop brings attention to the 1967 abduction of patrolman Herbert Schirmer of Nebraska, which is listed as #20 on the "100 Best UFO Sightings." Schirmer encountered an oval object with red lights and was subsequently abducted by three 5-foot-tall beings. He was given a tour of the craft and received a cryptic message: "We want you to believe in us, but not too much." This admonition is considered a significant clue to the nature of the UFO mystery.

UFO Documentary and "Cerebral Print"

Filmmakers from Oklahoma, Ford Austin and his partner, claim to have been abducted by aliens and are producing a movie about their experiences titled "Cerebral Print: The Secret Files." The film reportedly includes alien abduction stories, government agent interviews, and "artistic recreations."

Drones or Dragonfly Drones

The phenomenon of "Drones" or "Dragonfly Drones" is discussed. These are described as possibly computer-generated models or governmental devices rather than extraterrestrial craft. They are primarily sighted in the southwest, often near military bases or power lines. The article notes contradictory information and a sense that "something is really wrong here."

NASA Transmissions and UFO Fears

Concerns are raised about scientists sending radio messages into outer space, fearing that malevolent aliens might be alerted. NASA is currently broadcasting The Beatles' song "Across the Universe." The magazine notes that humanity has already revealed its position and information about human biology through the Voyager and Pioneer probes.

Rick Hilberg's "A Significant Ufological Year 1966"

Researcher Rick Hilberg has published a $9 booklet titled "A Significant Ufological Year 1966." The year 1966 is noted for the Michigan "marsh gas" flap and other classic cases. For the editor, 1966 was a year of near-celebrity status due to college lectures and media appearances. It was also a year when Dr. J. Allen Hynek reportedly began to doubt the Air Force's negative stance on UFOs. Hilberg's book emphasizes detailed structural and lighting descriptions of craft, suggesting that modern sightings lack such unambiguous detail, possibly due to the rise of abductions.

James Randi's Million Dollar Challenge

Updates are provided on James Randi's "Million Dollar Challenge." The rules have been tightened, requiring participants to have a "well-known track record in the paranormal field." The prize funds, if unclaimed, will be used for "other purposes" by the Foundation, potentially including remodeling or other projects.

Letters to the Editor

Several readers contribute their thoughts. Carlos Mentira praises the magazine's shift towards Fortean items and its improved quality. Matt Graeber expresses concern about the perceived decline in Ufology's "energizer bunny." Michael Dennett critiques the use of the word "artist" for David Huggins' painting, questioning its artistic merit and the interpretation of the alien figures' intentions. Chris Roth comments on the Stephenville, Texas, UFO flap and discusses Scientology's UFO beliefs. George Earley defends former Arizona governor John Fife Symington III against criticism regarding a UFO sighting, suggesting the criticism was misdirected. Kim Cupples praises the editor's demeanor on the Paracast radio show and finds Chris Roth informative. Mac Tonnies, writing for SETI.org, questions the elusive nature of visiting aliens and suggests a "social engineering campaign" rather than literal flesh-and-blood visitors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach to UFO phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on debunking hoaxes and questionable claims, as seen with the "Alien Autopsy" exposé. The publication values Fortean phenomena and historical cases, often contrasting them with modern abduction reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to understand the underlying nature of the UFO mystery, whether it involves genuine extraterrestrial contact, psychological phenomena, or other unknown forces. The inclusion of diverse perspectives, from anthropologists to skeptics, reflects a desire to explore the subject from multiple angles. The magazine also exhibits a dry, sometimes humorous, tone in its reporting and commentary.