Caveat Emptor - vol 1 no 3

Magazine Overview

Title: caveat emptor
Issue: No. 3
Volume: 1
Date: Spring, 1972
Publisher: G & G Enterprises
Country: USA
Price: $2.00 per year (4 issues), $6.95 for the reviewed book.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, a quarterly publication, focuses on a range of esoteric and controversial topics, including UFOs, alleged conspiracies, and religious fringe groups. The cover features a collage of various smiley faces, while the interior content delves into serious and often speculative subjects.

Articles and Features

Culture Corner: THE SILVER BRIDGE Review

The issue begins with a review of Gray Barker's book, "The Silver Bridge," published in 1970. The book is described as a compelling narrative about the strange happenings in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, centered around a 'Mothman' creature and the collapse of the Silver Bridge. The reviewer notes that Barker takes liberties with facts, creating a sympathetic portrayal of the people involved and evoking a fantasy novel-like experience with allegorical undertones.

Editorials: The Three Men in Black and the Kennedy Assassination

Eugene Steinberg's editorial, inspired by Father Thomas A. Fairbanks' article, addresses the controversial theory of the "Three Men in Black" being involved in the assassinations of President Kennedy, Senator Kennedy, and Dr. King. Steinberg expresses surprise at this revelation but acknowledges the possibility of an organized agency causing global havoc. He challenges Father Fairbanks to provide notarized affidavits to support his claims, questioning the purpose of presenting the theory without sufficient proof, especially given the potential for lawsuits. The editorial also touches upon the "Indian curse" theory related to presidents elected in years ending in zero, listing several presidents who died in office after being elected in such years.

"A New Look At The Three Men in Black" by Father Thomas A. Fairbanks

Father Fairbanks presents a theory linking the "Three Men in Black" to the assassination of President Kennedy. He discusses his acquaintance with David W. Ferrie, who was allegedly involved in the assassination plot, and Bishop Raymond Broshears. Fairbanks suggests that the "Men in Black" might not be CIA or Air Force intelligence agents, but rather adventurers involved in hypnosis and drugs, potentially influenced by alien intelligences. He also explores the infiltration of Russian Orthodox Church jurisdictions by NKVD agents and speculates about Marina Oswald's potential role as a Soviet spy. Fairbanks also discusses his theory of a "ring of homosexual clerics" functioning in the ecclesiastical underworld, potentially involved in political assassinations and communist revolution.

"WHAT I REALLY BELIEVE (Part I)" by James W. Moseley

James W. Moseley shares his personal perspective on flying saucers, admitting that after years of research, he still doesn't have definitive answers. He stresses the importance of scientific method over blind belief or disbelief, stating that science deals with probability and can be disproven or improved upon. Moseley critiques the tendency of UFO investigators to jump to conclusions, such as assuming UFOs are alien craft and that aliens are friendly. He suggests that "space people" might be conducting psychological experiments on humans, and that their communications often lack truth or scientific basis. He concludes that entities contacted may simply be alien to the point of being beyond human comprehension.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section on "Rage Rat," "Spiritual Advisor," "Chameleon," "UFOlogist Undaunted," "Group Therapist," "Court Jester," and "Kibitzer-At-Large." Advertising rates are listed, and the publication details confirm it is published quarterly. A "Newswatch" section and "Miscellaneous Trivia" are also mentioned in the table of contents. The magazine also features articles on "WITCHCRAFT: WHO, WHAT AND WHY" by Dr. Leo Louis Martello and "THE HUMPTY DUMPTY PARALLEL" by Richard S. Shaver.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Caveat Emptor consistently explores themes of conspiracy, the unexplained, and alternative belief systems. The magazine appears to provide a platform for speculative theories and personal accounts, encouraging readers to question established narratives. The editorial stance, particularly from Eugene Steinberg, emphasizes a critical approach, demanding evidence and questioning unsubstantiated claims, while still remaining open to exploring unconventional ideas. The publication seems to cater to an audience interested in the fringes of science, religion, and politics, often with a skeptical yet curious outlook.

CAVEAT EMPTOR, Spring 1972 issue, is a publication that delves into a variety of controversial and often fringe topics, including UFO phenomena, witchcraft, pornography, and the population explosion. The magazine features articles by various authors, offering diverse perspectives on these subjects.

UFOs and the Unknown

The issue begins with an exploration of UFOs and their potential connection to the human mind. The author posits that UFOs may have an existence independent of human perception, possibly existing in a complex interrelationship with the mind itself. This concept is extended to include phenomena like poltergeists and ghosts, suggesting they might originate from the same "SPECTRUM of the Unknown." The UFO mystery is presented as a potential gateway to understanding unexplored aspects of the human mind, reality, or even the nature of God. However, the rarity of these occurrences makes them scientifically challenging to study, leaving the field largely to amateurs. The article touches upon the U.S. Air Force's Project Blue Book, noting that their primary concern was national security, and their interest waned as data accumulated without clear threats. An anecdote from a Pentagon official highlights a dismissive attitude towards UFOs occurring outside the U.S.

A personal account by the author details a UFO experience in Miami where a star-like object moved and disappeared, raising questions about self-hypnosis versus an actual encounter. The author emphasizes that naming phenomena like "self-hypnosis" does not explain them. The possibility of a meteorite is considered, but the odds of it coinciding with a specific thought about a UFO are deemed overwhelmingly against it.

Witchcraft: Who, What and Why

Dr. Leo Louis Martello discusses Witchcraft as an "underground river" that has recently surfaced in public consciousness. He defines it as the "Old Religion," a pre-Christian faith dating back to Paleolithic times, which worships old Gods and Goddesses, with the Goddess playing an equal or superior role. Martello highlights that Witchcraft offers liberation for women and rejects terms like "black" and "white" magic as unconsciously racist. He explains that witches do not believe in Satan but in the pre-Christian HORNED GOD and the GODDESS. The article mentions "ARADIA, THE GOSPEL OF THE WITCHES" by Charles Godfrey Leland as a key text for understanding Witchcraft, detailing its rites, rituals, and mythology collected from Italian witches.

The Humpty Dumpty Parallel

Richard S. Shaver, in "The Humpty Dumpty Parallel," critiques the handling of the space capsule incident where astronauts Grissom and his crew perished. He argues that the same minds responsible for this tragedy are controlling atomic weapons testing, which he believes poses a greater existential threat. Shaver introduces the concept of a "SUN CYCLE," suggesting that repeated atomic tests could trigger a self-sustaining chain reaction in Earth's elements, similar to processes on the sun. He expresses concern that this potential catastrophe is being ignored by those conducting the tests, comparing them to children playing with matches.

Profile of a Pornography Fighter

Steve Erdmann profiles Raymond T. Dreher, legal counsel for Citizens for Decent Literature (CDL). Dreher discusses the progression of pornography in the country, arguing that it defies reality and contributes negatively to society. He explains that CDL, founded in 1957, aims to educate the public about obscenity laws and encourage their enforcement. Dreher emphasizes that CDL is not a vigilante group but works within the legal framework, filing "amicus briefs" in the Supreme Court. He criticizes the Supreme Court's evolving definition of obscenity, particularly the concept of "redeeming social value," and highlights the impact of "contemporary community standards." Dreher expresses concern about the influence of organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in defending pornographers' rights and criticizes PLAYBOY magazine as promoting a view of women as mere chattels. He also discusses the potential for pornography to desensitize individuals and normalize anti-social behavior, citing examples from Denmark and a film incorporating child molestation.

The Population Explosion

Geneva Steinberg addresses the population explosion, arguing that it is not a distant problem but a present reality in the U.S. She challenges the traditional view that married people should have children, suggesting that the current rate of population increase is unsustainable and detrimental to the environment. Steinberg points out that while India faces a tragic situation, the U.S. depletes resources at a much higher rate. She advocates for population control for everyone, emphasizing that it is not synonymous with genocide. The article suggests limiting families to two children, adopting, or even choosing not to have children if one is unsure. It also provides contact information for "Zero Population Growth."

Culture Corner: The Silver Bridge Collapse

The "Culture Corner" section revisits the collapse of the Silver Bridge, refuting theories of alien involvement or spy networks. The National Transportation Safety Board's report is cited, attributing the collapse to stress corrosion and corrosion fatigue in the bridge's eyebar joint, exacerbated by the lack of knowledge about these phenomena at the time of design and the inaccessibility of the flaw for inspection. The article then contrasts this mundane explanation with the unexplained "Mothman" sightings, questioning if the Mothman was a harbinger of death, similar to a "banshee" in Irish folklore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

CAVEAT EMPTOR appears to adopt a critical and often contrarian stance, questioning established narratives and exploring subjects that challenge mainstream societal norms. The magazine seems to be a platform for alternative viewpoints on topics ranging from the paranormal and occult to social issues and potential existential threats. There is a recurring theme of questioning authority, whether it be governmental bodies, scientific consensus, or societal expectations. The articles often present a sense of urgency and a call for deeper investigation into phenomena that are dismissed or misunderstood by conventional society. The editorial stance leans towards skepticism of official explanations and an openness to more unconventional theories, while also engaging with serious social issues like pornography and overpopulation from a concerned perspective.

CAVEAT EMPTOR, Spring 1972, Volume 1, Issue 1, is a magazine dedicated to exploring paranormal phenomena, fringe theories, and alternative viewpoints. This issue features articles on UFOs, witchcraft, ancient civilizations, and societal commentary, offering a platform for diverse and often controversial ideas.

STRANGE CREATURES FROM TIME AND SPACE by John A. Keel

This review of John A. Keel's work highlights his investigation into "uglies and nasties" and the "whole panorama of Fortean and psychic incomprehensibles." Keel posits that these phenomena, often categorized separately, tend to follow global patterns. He notes connections between UFO sightings and "hairy, man-like apes," as well as the Abominable Snowman. Furthermore, UFOs are frequently accompanied by unusual sensory experiences like sulphurous smells, electrical storms, shrill screams, and green lights. Keel suggests that UFOs might not be from outer space but are "psychic-physical manifestations of an ultra-dimensional world." The article also touches upon the mysterious "Men in Black," described as sardonic figures who appear after UFO sightings, and draws parallels to similar figures in religious and political contexts.

Keel's broader theory posits that human beings are pawns in a cosmic battle between two supernatural forces. He suggests that different races were created as "chess pieces" to fuel racial antagonism, keeping the game going. However, individuals are given the choice of which side to align with. The concept of "Illumination," where individuals briefly merge with the Universal Mind, is also discussed as a transformative experience.

OUR HAUNTED PLANET by John A. Keel (Review)

This review of Keel's "Our Haunted Planet" contrasts it with his previous work, "UFOs: Operation Trojan Horse," finding it easier to read but raising questions about the author's conclusions. The reviewer questions the evidence for prehistoric animal bones with bullets and electric batteries found in ancient Egyptian tombs. The book is described as a collection of oddities, including evidence of advanced civilizations, flying saucers, black magic, and mysterious radio voices. Keel's conclusions about history and religion are seen as drawing a "new light." The reviewer notes Keel's theory that humans are pawns in a supernatural battle and that different races are manipulated. The possibility of choosing sides is mentioned, along with the idea that gypsies might be a special race for communicating with these forces. The concept of the "Universal Mind" and "Illumination" is also presented. The review concludes by recommending the book but advises readers not to accept its conclusions as absolute truth without further research.

Witchcraft: Who, What and Why

This section provides a historical overview of witchcraft, referencing Margaret Murray's "Witch Cult in Western Europe" and Gerald B. Gardner's "Witchcraft Today." It highlights the influence of Murray's work on Gardner, who established a Museum of Witchcraft. The article notes that modern Gardnerians often base their theology on Leland's "Aradia." The author shares their personal tradition as Italian-Sicilian "Continental witches," mentioning their grandmother being a town "strege" (witch) and their father's cousin leading a New York coven. The author was initiated in 1951. A trip to Sicily is described, where the author visited the Temple of Demeter and learned that a statue of the Madonna and Child depicted a "FEMALE JESUS," a nod to Demeter and Persephone. The article states that Diana is known as "The Queen of the Witches" in Italy, with Lucifer as her consort, not the Christian devil. Aradia is credited with founding the witch cult on Earth. The article mentions that not all witches worship the same deities and that secrecy surrounds their practices. It also notes that witches often worship nude, but this is not universal. The core tenet is "Do what ye will, as long as ye harm none," with good returning threefold and bad returning threefold, based on Karmic law applied on Earth. The author presents this as a glimpse into the Old Religion and invites comments.

An editor's note introduces Dr. Leo Louis Martello as a potential regular columnist for CAVEAT EMPTOR, contingent on reader interest. Readers are encouraged to send questions about witchcraft or related subjects to Dr. Martello.

The Humpty Dumpty Parallel

This piece discusses the conditions leading to the beginning of the sun cycle, noting they are unknown and potentially unsurvivable to discover. The author expresses concern that scientific minds are not deterred by the destructive potential of bombs, fearing a global atomic event. A specific incident of a "WHOLE ISLAND" vaporized by a bomb is mentioned. The author also notes the testing of bombs underground and the potential for rivers to burst into flame from oil waste. The author feels compelled to protest such "tom foolery."

Letters to the Editors

Dr. Walter J. Gordon of Soquel, Calif., writes to express his interest in the magazine but offers a pessimistic outlook on its financial viability due to the costs of stencils, paper, and postage. He believes the Post Office is deliberately hindering small publications that tell the "TRUTH" while allowing large magazines and newspapers that "brainwash" the public to continue. He doubts the ability to gain enough subscribers to sustain the publication.

The editors respond, correcting Dr. Gordon by stating that the Postal Service HAS raised rates on big magazines, causing some to go out of business. They explain that the Postal Service needs money due to losses and aims for a pay-as-you-go basis. They dismiss the idea of a conspiracy against small publishers, attributing the challenges to the Postal Service's financial situation. They express optimism for CAVEAT EMPTOR's growth and invite Dr. Gordon to subscribe to see if they are right.

Miscellaneous Trivia

• This section includes several short updates:
• Rick Hilberg has rejoined the staff after completing therapy.
• Allen Greenfield has been promoted to Chameleon, and Steve Erdmann is now the Spiritual Advisor.
• Steve Erdmann's address for offset printing quotes is provided.
• Wallace Steinberg resigned as First Aide.
• A booklet by UFO writer Laura Mundo is advertised for $2.00.
• Readers are asked to send newspaper clippings about UFOs and the occult, as well as personal experiences.

DISSENTER/DISINTER

This piece presents a bleak view of current events, describing rising crime and revolutions of all kinds. It frames the Earth as a "battleground" with sheepish citizens. A journal called "D/D" is advertised, described as a large, photo-offset publication with illustrations.

Philadelphians Favor Ghosts

A newspaper survey in Philadelphia indicates that a majority (55.4%) believe in ghosts, while 44.6% do not. Believers offered comments ranging from finding ghosts "fascinating" to cynically calling them "the substance of election promises." A non-believer admitted being troubled by ghosts since purchasing a color TV.

A Fool and His Money...

This report details a scheme where 70,000 people nationwide were defrauded by "James Bliss Company," which advertised spare-time income opportunities. Victims paid a $1.00 registration fee and received only circulars. The company was charged with defrauding people, and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Consumer Protection obtained a permanent injunction, requiring the firm to offer refunds.

Flying Saucer Up-Day!

This section advertises a 60-page booklet by UFO writer Laura Mundo, including photos, sightings, and contacts.

Caveat Emptor Newswatch: The God of War Preserves His Secrets

This report discusses the Mariner 9 spacecraft's mission to Mars. A persistent dust storm hindered efforts to map the planet's surface. However, instruments detected water vapor in the south polar cap. The mission also returned the first close-up photos of Mars' moon, Phobos, which appears pock-marked like the Moon and Mars. The report notes the Russian Mars 3 probe's soft landing, though its success was not fully detailed, possibly due to strong winds and a dust storm. The craft transmitted brief "video signals" that were suddenly discontinued.

Saucer Flop

This brief article notes a decline in UFO sightings during the fall, suggesting witnesses preferred indoor activities. It mentions British reports of a large blue blob of light observed hovering and zipping at high speeds.

UFO Reports from the United States

• This section details several UFO sightings:
• A procession of UFOs was seen moving towards Chicago, with one circular orange-red object, followed by a second that appeared to be a star climbing into the sky, and a third speeding between cloud layers.
• Saucers were reported flying over central Illinois, with witnesses including state troopers. Strange colored lights were observed, and a state police cruiser followed a UFO.
• A Detroit disc jockey and his girlfriend described five objects flying in formation across the moon's face. They observed the UFOs casting shadows on the moon's surface.
• In Albany, Mrs. Harry M. Fries reported an "inverted bowl" with a dull finish that caused neighborhood dogs to bark. The UFO was reportedly 50 feet from her home. John A. Zakutny spotted a "white circle with a phosphorescent glow." Sheriff's deputies also investigated a "bright light."
• An engineer in Chester County, Pennsylvania, who had been collecting UFO data for years, noted a decline in sightings in the late 1960s, with a pickup in reports around the summer of 1971.

Hippies K.O. Giant Rock Convention

The Giant Rock saucer convention, hosted by George Van Tassel since the early 1950s, came to an end in 1971. The "love" generation's presence in 1970 proved too much for Van Tassel, who canceled the event, citing the inability to maintain order.

Reprisal Department

This section discusses New Orleans district attorney James Garrison's investigation into the assassination of President Kennedy. After indicting Clay Shaw, who was acquitted, Garrison himself was indicted by a Federal grand jury on charges of bribery and filing false income tax returns. Garrison claimed this was government retaliation for his probe.

Women's Lib and Historical Gender Roles

This extended piece argues that the current concept of Women's Lib is insufficient and that early human history was characterized by female dominance. The author posits that women naturally run governments and households, while men's roles were advisory. The Amazon civilization is cited as an example of a female-run society. The author suggests that men were artificially and politically forced into dominant roles, and that the current societal structure is unnatural. The piece concludes by suggesting that women will eventually reclaim their natural dominant role.

Richard S. Shaver from Summit, Ark., offers a counterpoint, expressing skepticism about the existence of an ancient matriarchal race and cautioning against generalizing behavior based on it. He advocates for individual merit over sex-based positions in society, arguing that even if biological differences exist, the 1% qualified in either sex should not be handicapped.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CAVEAT EMPTOR include the exploration of the unexplained, the questioning of established scientific and historical narratives, and the examination of alternative belief systems. The magazine appears to have an editorial stance that is open to fringe theories and paranormal phenomena, providing a platform for authors like John A. Keel and Dr. Leo Louis Martello. There is a clear interest in UFOs, witchcraft, and ancient mysteries, often presented with a critical yet open-minded perspective. The inclusion of letters to the editor and diverse viewpoints, such as the discussions on Women's Lib and historical gender roles, indicates a desire to engage readers in ongoing debates and investigations into the unknown.

This issue of Caveat Emptor presents a collection of rare back issues of UFO and occult magazines, made available from the collection of a world-famous researcher. The primary offering is packages of 10 assorted magazines for $5.00, with the promise of "numerous sightings and personal encounters" and "dozens of fascinating articles and features." A bonus of two issues of "The UFO REPORTER" is included with each order. The advertisement also lists numerous other UFO and occult publications, including "SAUCERS, SPACE & SCIENCE" and "DARKNESS."

Books and Publications

The magazine features an extensive catalog of books related to UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and esoteric subjects. These books cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Contactee accounts: Books detailing alleged encounters with extraterrestrial beings from planets like Mars and Venus, such as "BOOK OF SPACE BROTHERS" by Timothy Green Beckley and "WE MET THE SPACE PEOPLE" by Helen and Betty Mitchell.
• UFO phenomena and history: Works exploring the history of UFO sightings, theories about their origins, and government secrecy, such as "JIM MOSELEY'S BOOK OF SAUCER NEWS," "THE SHAVER MYSTERY AND THE INNER EARTH" by Timothy Green Beckley, and "THE COMING OF THE SAUCERS" by Kenneth Arnold and Ray Palmer.
• Esoteric and spiritual topics: Books delving into ancient civilizations, hidden worlds, spiritual practices, and prophecies, including "THE HOLLOW EARTH" by Dr. Raymond Bernard, "MYSTERY SHAVER" and other works by Richard S. Shaver, and "WE WANT YOU" by Michael X.
• Specific UFO cases: Accounts of notable UFO flaps and incidents, such as the "Michigan UFO flap" in "FLYING SAUCERS ARE WATCHING YOU" by John Sherwood.

Each book listing includes a brief description, the author, and the price.

Classified Advertising

Several classified advertisements offer further resources for UFO enthusiasts:

• SAUCERS, SPACE & SCIENCE: A Canadian UFO magazine in its 14th year, offering sample copies and subscriptions.
• DARKNESS: An official publication of CF/UFOFRI, featuring articles, reports, and special features on UFOs and Forteana.
• FELLOWSHIP OF STS. BASIL AND ALCUIN: An organization offering information and answering questions for $1.00.
• Richard S. Shaver: Offers booklets on understanding UFOs and "rock books," along with sample rocks and photographs.

Instructional Content

A unique, humorous instructional piece titled "MAKING DO AFTER THE WAR #1: HOW TO SKIN THE ANT" by Chris Riesbeck is included, offering a satirical guide to preparing an ant for display.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFOs, paranormal phenomena, occultism, and contactee experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of providing access to a wide range of materials, both popular and obscure, for those interested in these subjects. The publisher, G & G Steinberg, acts as a distributor, offering these items to the public "in the public interest," while stating that they "do not necessarily support the viewpoints expressed in these books."