Saucer Smear - Vol 57 No 03 - 2010

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 57, No. 3 (Whole Number 429)
Date: April 2nd, 2010
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY
Editor: James W. Moseley

This issue of Saucer Smear, a non-scheduled newsletter dedicated to ufological journalism, tackles the provocative question of whether alien hybrids are poised to take over the human race. While acknowledging the prevalence of hybrid lore in UFO narratives, the publication expresses skepticism from a conventional scientific standpoint, noting that Earth-based hybridization typically results in sterile offspring. The magazine explores various facets of the UFO phenomenon, including abduction research, historical sightings, and skeptical investigations, while also featuring updates on prominent figures and publications within the field.

Alien Hybrids: A Question of Reality?

The lead article, "ARE ALIEN HYBRIDS ABOUT TO TAKE OVER THE HUMAN RACE ??", addresses the topic directly. It posits that while the idea is prevalent in UFO lore, conventional science does not support the possibility of genetic hybrids between humans and aliens. The article references discussions with Ph.D.s to support this view. It uses the example of a horse and donkey producing a sterile mule to illustrate the concept of hybridization. The piece then introduces the "Starchild Skull," found in Mexico and studied by Lloyd Pye, who claims genetic tests indicate a non-human father and a human mother, suggesting a hybrid origin. Despite expensive scientific tests, the skull's nature remains a mystery, with many experts reportedly agreeing it is not human.

Abduction Research and Subjective Experiences

The magazine discusses abduction researcher Dr. David Jacobs of Temple University, referencing a complaint from a former subject, "Emma Woods," who described his behavior as "increasingly bizarre and psychologically abusive" during 37 hypnotic sessions. The article notes that Jacobs "literally believes in the physical existence of alien-human hybrids" but takes evasive actions when questioned. Another individual, David Huggins, claims to have fathered about fifty hybrid babies with an alien named Crescent over many years, though these offspring appear to be the same age and are described as "babies." The editors propose their theory that alien experiences are not physical but are induced by "outside Intelligence," suggesting that surveillance cameras would yield no results. They highlight the work of Tin Brigham, who is pursuing a Ph.D. to investigate whether the abduction syndrome is self-induced or has an external cause.

Skeptical Investigations and Personalities

The issue revisits the long-standing feud between arch-skeptic James Randi and psychic Uri Geller. It details Geller's lawsuits against Randi, which reportedly depleted Randi's MacArthur Award grant and strained CSI's libel insurance. Randi's subsequent resignation from CSI and alliance with Michael Shermer's "Skeptic" Magazine are mentioned. The article notes that Randi and CSI have since reconciled.

The Professor and Historical UFO Data

A blogger known as "The Professor" is discussed for his posts on ufological history, particularly regarding Air Force and government attitudes towards UFOs from 1948-1952. His analysis of Project Sign, a predecessor to Project Bluebook, suggests the preparation of a pro-ET paper called "Estimate of the Situation" that was never released due to shifting Pentagon attitudes. The article suggests this indicates a "Silence Group" rather than an organized conspiracy, stemming from complex personnel changes. The editors express skepticism about the Roswell Incident being ET-related, arguing that if ET hardware had been recovered, top-level officers would have known, and that the "Estimate of the Situation" document lacked tangible evidence for ET origins.

Gene Steinberg and UFO Watchdog

Gene Steinberg, host of "The Paracast," is mentioned as facing financial troubles. His co-host, Dave Bledny, has taken an "indefinite leave of absence." Steinberg has taken over the website "UFO Watchdog," formerly run by Royce Myers III, where UFO researchers are categorized into "Hall of Fame" or "Hall of Shame." Steinberg plans to expand this list and include a "Gray Basket" for individuals with feet in both camps, with Gray Barker nominated as an example.

Book Reviews and Updates

"Shades of Gray" Documentary

An update is provided on a documentary about the late Gray Barker titled "Shades of Gray," produced by Bob Wilkinson. Seminal Films is distributing it, and efforts are underway to secure distribution with major retailers like Wal-Mart and Blockbuster.

UK UFO Hotline Closure

A troubling report from the UKPA indicates that Britain's Ministry of Defence will destroy future UFO reports to avoid public disclosure. The official UFO hotline and investigation unit were closed in December 2009, with reports to be kept for only 30 days before disposal. This policy is described as a way to avoid responding to freedom of information requests. Nick Pope, a former MoD employee, calls this "laziness as opposed to a conspiracy" and laments the potential loss of fascinating material.

"The Cryptoterrestrials" by Mac Tonnies

Mac Tonnies' posthumously published book, "The Cryptoterrestrials," is recommended for those tired of the ET hypothesis. Tonnies suggests that some UFO encounters may involve contact with an ancient terrestrial race closely related to humans. While the editors find this idea unlikely, they consider it worthy of consideration. Tonnies died suddenly at age 34.

Professor Charles Moore and the Mogul Project

Professor Charles Moore, an expert in ballooning, passed away at age ninety. His connection to the Mogul balloon project in New Mexico in 1947 is highlighted as a potential explanation for the Roswell Incident. Moore himself reportedly became convinced that the Roswell crash was caused by one of his Mogul flights. The article references Karl Pflock's book "Roswell: Inconvenient Facts and the Will to Believe" for details on the complex nature of these flights.

Sean David Morton and SEC Lawsuit

Ufologist Sean David Morton is mentioned as having a lengthy entry in Royce Myers' "Hall of Shame." Morton, who claims to be psychic and successful in stock market predictions, is facing a lawsuit from the SEC. He is accused of raising over six million dollars from investors and diverting funds into foreign currency trading and a religious organization run by him and his wife.

Historical Oddities and Sightings

Mars Communication Attempt

An unusual event from 1924 is recounted: astronomers attempted radio communication with Mars during its closest approach to Earth. The U.S. Army and Navy listened for transmissions, but none were detected.

Nasca Lines

The editors express a long-standing interest in the Nasca Lines of Peru, with the editor having once been an "expert" on the subject. They dismiss Erik von Däniken's theory of them being extraterrestrial landing fields and favor theories related to ancient peoples searching for water sources. David Johnson's book, "Beneath the Nasca Lines and Other Coastal Geoglyphs of Peru and Chile," is mentioned for its research into the complex links between the lines, hieroglyphs, and water sources.

Marfa Lights

John Rimmer reviews James Bunnell's book "Hunting Marfa Lights," which studies the mysterious lights in Marfa, Texas. Bunnell's eight-year scientific study, avoiding UFO or paranormal interpretations, has explained some lights but left others unexplained.

Missives from the Masses

Christopher Allan's Skepticism

Christopher Allan, a regular contributor, expresses continued skepticism in his ufological views. He comments on the classic Father Gill sighting from 1959, suggesting astronomical objects as a possible explanation, and notes that the Royal Australian Air Force dismissed the case as astronomical objects in a turbulent atmosphere.

Tim Printy on Lonnie Zamora and Nitinol

Tim Printy of the skeptical zine SUNlite writes about Anthony Bragalia's negative reaction to a comment in "Smear" regarding Lonnie Zamora. Printy dismisses the "Nitinol nonsense" as a dead end and expresses certainty that the Roswell report was not falsified to hide evidence.

George Earley on Ufology Camps

Researcher George Earley describes ufology as divided into two camps: the "scientifically undereducated" who believe "dark and dreary tales" while rejecting contrary views, and "the rest of us."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Saucer Smear maintains its characteristic blend of reporting on UFO phenomena, abduction research, and skeptical analysis. The editors express a clear preference for scientific inquiry and critical thinking, often questioning extraordinary claims while acknowledging the enduring mysteries of the UFO field. There is a recurring theme of debunking sensationalism and focusing on evidence, even while exploring speculative theories. The publication demonstrates a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims and a willingness to challenge established narratives within ufology. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism, particularly regarding ET origins, and favors terrestrial or more conventional explanations where possible, while still acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena. The magazine also engages with the personalities and internal dynamics of the UFO research community, including disputes and collaborations among researchers and skeptics.