Saucer Smear - Vol 57 No 04 - 2010

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER SMEAR
Issue: Volume 57, No. 4
Date: May 15th, 2010
Publisher: SAUCER & UNEXPLAINED CELESTIAL EVENTS RESEARCH SOCIETY

This issue of SAUCER SMEAR, a publication dedicated to ufological journalism, features a lead story detailing a UFO landing in Turis, Spain, in July 1979. The magazine also includes updates on the 'Starchild Skull' controversy, the 'WOW!' signal, and a close encounter in Zimbabwe. Additionally, it offers book reviews, personal anecdotes, and commentary on prominent figures in the UFO and skeptical communities.

Lead Story: Turis, Spain Landing (July 1979)

The issue highlights a fascinating lead story from the March 2010 issue of IUR (International UFO Reporter), which rehashes a July 1979 incident near Turis, Spain. A Spanish farmer named Federico Ibanez, while driving in his vineyards, encountered a strange object blocking the road. Described as a white, 'half-egg' shaped object, it lacked wheels and rested on two 'feet', standing about eight feet tall. Ibanez witnessed two identical beings, a little over 3 feet tall, emerge from behind a tree, run to the object, and enter it on its left side. The object then ascended with great speed, almost vertically, creating a whirlwind that swept the ground clean. The farmer was unsure if there was any sound. The creatures had short arms ending in dark hands, and their faces featured protruding black tubes about three inches long. The entire event, from sighting to disappearance, lasted only about ten seconds. Complex physical traces were later found on the ground where the object supposedly landed. Ibanez, still alive and farming in the same location, is considered a reliable witness.

James Randi's Public Admission

The publication notes the public coming out of James 'The Amusing' Randi, who admitted to being gay at the age of 81. The editor recalls knowing Randi since the 1960s and mentions a trip to Ecuador with him. The editor observes that Randi's homosexuality was apparent to many but he never admitted it publicly, which led to him being targeted by intellectual enemies. The article references a 'blackmail tape' that was allegedly used by Uri Geller and others to punish Randi for his anti-psychic activities. The editor also reflects on Randi's increasing harshness against 'superstition' and flying saucers. It is noted that Randi ultimately won his intellectual battle with Uri Geller, who has faded into obscurity, while Randi remains a respected leader of the skeptical movement.

Personal Anecdote: Casino Luck

The editor shares a personal anecdote about gambling at the Sands Hotel in Atlantic City. He recounts receiving a psychic tip from Rick Butler, a self-proclaimed psychic and UFO abductee, to play a specific slot machine. Following the tip, the editor won $150 on his first try and another $100 two days later, leaving Atlantic City $250 ahead, a significant improvement over his usual performance.

Update on Hybrids: The 'Starchild Skull'

The issue revisits the 'Starchild Skull', which researcher Lloyd Pye believes to be of human/alien hybrid origin. Pye claims that recent DNA testing is conclusive, with the father being non-human. The geneticist and evidence are expected to be presented soon. However, a contrary opinion from another geneticist suggests the skull is entirely human and its deformation is due to binding practices. Dr. Chris Roth also expresses skepticism about the possibility of terrestrial and extraterrestrial organisms mating.

The 'WOW!' Signal

On August 15th, 1977, a signal believed to be extraterrestrial was detected by the 'Big Ear' radio telescope at Ohio State University. Dr. Jerry Ehman, excited by the signal, circled a segment on the printout and wrote 'WOW!'. The signal lasted 72 seconds and was never repeated. Despite extensive searches, the signal has not been detected again. Dr. Ehman stated that while terrestrial origins have been ruled out, the possibility of an ETI source cannot be dismissed, but there is insufficient data for vast conclusions.

MUFON Chief Resigns

James Carrion, MUFON International Director, has resigned after three years, citing issues with balancing his real job and MUFON duties. In a blog post, he expressed being 'squarely outside of Ufology', describing it as a 'three-ring circus' that has produced no definite answers. He stated his intention to pursue a path of exposing human deception. The new MUFON czar, Clifford Clift, is introduced as a genial and reasonable individual.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "Electricity of the Mind": A non-fiction anthology, with two articles of interest: "The Real James Randi" by Tim Cridland, detailing Randi's early life and career as a debunker, and an article on the mysterious Nazca Lines of Peru, which mentions a unique 'astronaut' depiction.
• "The Cryptoterrestrials" by Mac Tonnies: Mentioned briefly, with a critique of Antonio Bragalia's negative review.
• "MIND CONTROLLED SEX SLAVES AND THE CIA" by Nick Redfern, Tracy Twyman, and "Commander X": Described as 'wild speculation' for entertainment purposes.
• "Houdini's Spirit Exposes": A book exploring Houdini and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's contrasting views on the supernatural, featuring historical photographs.
• "The Best of the Original UFO Magazine" by Rick Hilberg: A collection of items from his 1960s zine.

News Briefs

• "OpenMinds" Magazine: A new UFO magazine and organization based in Phoenix, Arizona, aiming to discover truths through critical examination. It also sponsors the International UFO Conference and runs a radio show and website.
• "The Ruwa Close Encounter": An article by Antonio detailing an incident in Zimbabwe on September 16th, 1994, where 62 children witnessed a saucer-shaped object from which a small humanoid emerged and projected a psychic message about environmental care. Dr. John Mack of Harvard University investigated the case and was convinced of its honesty, though the author cautions about Mack's potential agenda.
• Roswell Alcoholics: Anthony Bragalia's blog post about four people who allegedly turned to alcohol after witnessing the Roswell crash, including an anecdote about former New Mexico Governor Joseph Montoya.
• Worm Astronauts: Iran's successful launch of a rocket carrying a mouse, turtles, and worms into space, seen by President Ahmadinejad as a technological victory.

Letters to the Editor

• David Biedny to Gene Steinberg: Biedny announces his departure from the Paracast internet radio show, citing extensive negative impact on his life and career.
• David Huggins: Responds to an article about alien hybrids, sharing personal memories of interacting with hybrid babies and women, and mentioning having had sex with an alien woman.
• Dr. Chris Roth: Expresses strong skepticism about the 'Starchild Skull' and the possibility of extraterrestrial-human reproduction, calling such ideas an 'absolute absurdity'. He also questions the feasibility of genetic testing on ancient skulls.

MUFON Update

Rob Swiatek of MUFON reports on the organization's challenges after funding from the Bigelow outfit ended, forcing investigations to rely on volunteers. He mentions that some cases, like a CE-III in Texas, were closed due to insufficient data. Swiatek also comments on the financial success of organizations like CSETI and the International UFO Museum, contrasting it with MUFON's struggles, and muses that 'UFOs don't pay, but there's tons of money in saucers.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical yet open-minded stance towards UFO phenomena. While reporting on alleged sightings and encounters, the editors often inject skepticism, particularly regarding claims of psychic abilities and hybrid beings. There is a clear respect for verifiable evidence and a distrust of unsubstantiated theories or individuals perceived as promoting disinformation. The publication also engages with the broader UFO community, commenting on the activities of organizations like MUFON and the work of prominent researchers and skeptics. The editorial tone is often informal and personal, reflecting the editor's long-standing involvement in ufology.