Caveat Emptor - vol 2 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: No. 6 (Volume 2, Number 2)
Date: Winter 1972-3
Publisher: G & G Enterprises
Price: 60¢

This issue of Caveat Emptor, published quarterly by G & G Enterprises, presents a collection of articles exploring UFO phenomena, psychic experiences, and spiritual beliefs. The cover features a satirical illustration related to UFOs and a machine called 'Hannibal Mastation', with the headline 'YES!' and a quote asking about the answer to the UFO mystery.

Editorial

Eugene Steinberg's editorial reflects on the cyclical nature of UFO interest, noting a predicted resurgence in 1972 after a period of decline. He mentions John Keel's forecast and Dr. Hynek's book, 'The UFO Experience', as contributing factors. Steinberg highlights the Condon Report's negative conclusion and the Air Force's subsequent shutdown of Project Blue Book, which led to a decrease in public reporting and the demise of some UFO magazines. He observes a renewed interest in UFOs in 1972, with articles appearing in men's magazines, and emphasizes that the UFO phenomenon has persisted for thousands of years, urging a serious approach to finding solutions.

Feature Articles

What I Really Believe (Part II)

By James W. Moseley

James W. Moseley continues his exploration of the UFO mystery and related 'offbeat' topics. He reiterates that many UFO theories omit evidence and discusses the division between those who 'will to believe' and those who 'will not to believe'. Moseley delves into the complexities of proving an afterlife through spirit mediumship, acknowledging the history of fraud but arguing that not all mediums are fraudulent. He questions whether messages come from the dead or from the living person's mind, or even from 'vibrations' of physical objects. Moseley expresses belief in ESP between living persons and 'precognition', though he notes that none have been definitively proven. He discusses the statistical studies on ESP and the skepticism surrounding them. Moseley recounts a personal experience of guessing cards with unusual accuracy, which he labels as precognition, but acknowledges the difficulty in predicting the future with certainty. He touches upon the philosophical implications of predetermination versus free will and expresses skepticism about the validity of personality reading techniques like handwriting analysis.

My Experience with Deros and the MIB

By Eric Grandstaff

Eric Grandstaff recounts a personal experience that he believes may involve 'Deros' (subsurface dwellers) and 'Men in Black' (MIB). He describes how his small UFO club, 'UFO Sighting Alert' (USA), took precautions to keep their research secret. Laressa, a girl he met, called him in distress, claiming her cousin, a 'D-Force', had taken her into an underground civilization. Laressa described people with a 'wolf' design on their jewelry and mentioned that 'D-Forces' outnumbered 'T-Forces'. She also revealed knowledge of USA's secret project and warned Grandstaff not to attend a local UFO convention meeting. Coincidentally, a UFO was sighted over the convention hotel during that meeting. Grandstaff also details a disturbing incident where a green car with one headlight aggressively followed him on a country road. He considers the possibility of a hoax but finds Laressa's knowledge of Shaverism and USA's activities particularly unsettling. He also mentions receiving late-night phone calls with no one on the other end and notes that Laressa's cousin has a distinctive necklace with a wolf-type design.

About UFOs

By Richard S. Shaver

Richard S. Shaver presents his theory that UFOs are sent by a malevolent faction of the Martian people who have enslaved and brutalized their own kind. He believes these Martians use UFOs to sabotage Earth and prepare for their eventual mass invasion. Shaver suggests that the Martians are afraid to come to Earth themselves and send others, whom they hate and fear, to harass humanity. He describes these beings as residing in 'hidey-holes' and compares them to a nest of vipers, planning but lacking the courage for open conquest. Shaver also touches upon the existence of underworld cities on Mars and Earth, suggesting that sandstorms observed by probes are a result of weather control mechanisms still operating from these subterranean cities.

The Life Force (Second of a Series)

By Dennis Stamey

Dennis Stamey's article explores the most primitive forms of religion, focusing on the worship of a life force or essence found in both living and inanimate objects. He discusses how American Indians believed in a power flowing through animals, plants, and celestial bodies, leading to sacrifices. Stamey highlights the worship of trees in ancient European and African cultures, citing examples like the Hidatsa and Wonika Indians, and Siamese Buddhist monks. He also addresses beliefs in animal souls and the common reverence for animals among primitive cultures, such as the Cherokee and bear hunters. The article extends to ancient civilizations that conceived of spirits as persons, becoming gods of specific domains, and traces the evolution of philosophical thought, mentioning figures like Frazer, Thales, Imenes, and Plato, who explored concepts of ultimate reality and the nature of ideas.

Witchcraft: Who, What & Why (#3)

By Dr. Leo Louis Martello

This section, part of a series, likely delves into the practices and beliefs of witchcraft. (Content not fully detailed in the provided scan).

Ellie

By Donald J. Battey

(Content not fully detailed in the provided scan).

Naked Came the Fortean (Part II)

By Richard E. Wiplash

This article appears to be a continuation of a Fortean-themed piece, likely discussing unusual or unexplained phenomena.

Sexual Morality and Religion

By Rev. Richmond Hutchins

(Content not fully detailed in the provided scan).

The Ego Corner: Now, As I Was Saying

By Geneva Steinberg

This column, likely a personal reflection or commentary, is written by co-editor Geneva Steinberg.

Other Sections

Culture Corner: A section likely featuring cultural commentary or reviews.

Letters To The Editors: A space for reader correspondence.

Newswatch: A section for news items related to the magazine's themes.

Flashes: A section for brief news or sighting reports.

Advertising: The magazine includes advertising rates and listings for various books and services, including UFO books from Galaxy Press and Laura Mundo Enterprises, witchcraft supplies from Coven Wicca, and organic herb seeds from Green Acres Organic Food.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor are UFOs, psychic phenomena, spirituality, and the occult. The editorial stance, as expressed by Eugene Steinberg, is one of open inquiry and a belief in the enduring nature of the UFO phenomenon, despite periods of public disinterest or skepticism. The magazine appears to encourage the exploration of unconventional ideas and experiences, providing a platform for various perspectives on the unexplained.

This issue of CAVEAT EMPTOR, dated Winter 1972-73, is the third issue and features a cover story on "Witchcraft: Who, What & Why" by Dr. Leo Louis Martello. The magazine explores a range of topics including mysticism, ancient religious practices, spiritualism, UFO phenomena, and modern sexual morality.

Articles and Content

Mysticism and Ancient Religions

The issue begins by exploring the concept of "other worlds" and the doctrine of Dualism, which posits a reality separate from our own. It traces the philosophical debate of "universals" through medieval scholars like Abelard. The article then delves into various Christian saints who experienced "mystic experiences" and were canonized, including St. Augustine, St. Gregory I, and St. Theresea of Avila. The influence of George Fox and the Quaker movement, emphasizing "inward light" and direct spiritual connection, is also discussed.

Comparisons are drawn between Christian practices and ancient rituals, such as the Aztec use of mushrooms in religious ceremonies, referred to as "God's Flesh." The Eleusinian Mysteries of ancient Greece, honoring Demeter and Persephone and symbolizing the rebirth of grain, are detailed, including the Lesser and Greater Mysteries. The Dionysian Mysteries, associated with the god of wine and orgies, are also mentioned.

Witchcraft: Who, What & Why

Dr. Leo Louis Martello's article challenges the popular image of witches, asserting that true Witchcraft is primarily a religion with its own theology, worship of ancient Gods and Goddesses, and belief in reincarnation. He explains that initiated witches are all priests or priestesses, and covens are typically limited to 13 members, reflecting lunar cycles. The article touches upon the historical persecution of witches by the Church and how this led to various traditions and the loss of original theology. Martello clarifies that while witches use rituals and items similar to other faiths, "magic" is not the basis of Wicca or "la vecchia religione" (The Old Religion), just as "miracles" are not the basis of Christian theology.

Black Magic, Satanism & Voodoo

A book review by Dr. Leo L. Martello for "Black Magic, Satanism & Voodoo" is included, describing it as a "Fascinating & Weird" chronicle of occult arts, including rituals, sacrifices, and the Black Mass.

The "Ellie" Case Study

Donald J. Battey reports on a case involving a spirit named "Ellie" who was contacted by the Keane family of Middletown, N.Y., through a Ouija board. Ellie, a French-Canadian spirit, claimed to have committed suicide in 1939 after being jilted. The family, concerned about their daughter Jo-Anne's involvement, sought help from the Spiritual Frontiers Fellowship. Through a Ouija board session, facilitated by spiritual guides like Tallis and Marianne, Ellie was eventually persuaded to move to the spirit world.

Naked Came the Fortean

Richard E. Wiplash presents a satirical piece titled "Naked came the Fortean, Part 2," which includes an "Introduction to the Introduction" by Otto Bound. This section humorously depicts a bizarre Christmas gathering at the Lurch family's home, involving a large and eccentric group of guests. The narrative focuses on Oswald Lurch, a young UFO researcher, who mysteriously disappears after being sent to fetch water, with his voice heard screaming from above. The article suggests a conspiracy to hide the truth about his disappearance, possibly related to the International Athiest Conspiracy (IAC) or "Flying Saucer People."

Sexual Morality & Religion: A Minority View

Rev. Richmond Hutchins argues against the notion that society's Judeo-Christian heritage is solely defined by strict sexual morality. He contends that religion and morality are not always synonymous and that while Christianity is a moral religion, its teachings on sexual morality must adapt to contemporary times, particularly in light of the contraceptive revolution. Hutchins critiques the idea of imposing religious sexual standards on the wider community, advocating for a focus on individual choice and consent among adults, provided no harm is inflicted on others. He references the Presidential Commission on Obscenity and Pornography's findings that explicit sexual material does not play a significant role in causing social harms.

The Ego Corner

Geneva Steinberg's column, "the ego corner - now as i was saying," discusses the phenomenon of highly intelligent people arriving at opposite conclusions. She applies this to the Women's Liberation issue, suggesting that while traditional sex roles have historically ensured species survival, subjective dissatisfaction with the system is prevalent. Steinberg posits that while some personality differences between men and women may exist naturally, they are likely minor compared to their similarities. She advocates for viewing individuals as unique rather than as members of a category and suggests exploring "together and unequal" rather than "separate but equal."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores alternative spiritualities, esoteric beliefs, and phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. There is a critical stance towards established religious institutions and societal norms, particularly concerning sexuality and morality. The publication seems to favor a more open-minded and investigative approach to topics often considered fringe or controversial, such as witchcraft, spirit communication, and UFOs. The editorial stance appears to be one of questioning authority, exploring diverse belief systems, and advocating for individual freedom of thought and practice, within the bounds of not harming others.

CAVEAT EMPTOR, Winter 1972-73. This issue delves into a variety of topics including feminism, paranormal phenomena, book reviews, and societal critiques.

Articles and Themes

The "Second Sex" and Human Liberation

The issue begins with a discussion on the "Second Sex" and the Women's Liberation movement. The author notes that while men may face disadvantages, women are becoming more aware of their choices. The first Feminist movement arose from the Abolitionist movement, and the modern Women's Liberation movement similarly emerged from the Civil Rights movement, where women found themselves relegated to supportive roles. The article posits that while "Human Liberation" is the ultimate goal, it's necessary to address current realities. It critiques two common mistakes of the Women's Liberation groups: the eagerness to adopt male roles for prestige and the tendency to attack men as the "enemy." The author suggests that men, like women, are products of their environment and that berating each other is pointless. While acknowledging the anger and reasons behind it, the piece concludes that Women's Liberation can be a force for change, ultimately hoping for a future where sex, race, and other barriers are overcome, leading to cooperation.

Book Reviews

"This Hollow Earth" by Eric Norman (alias Warren Smith)

This review examines a book that promised to "explode the myths and reveal the astonishing truth" about the Earth being hollow and inhabited. However, the reviewer finds the book to be a letdown, claiming it's largely fabricated by the author. The review highlights a scene described by Norman/Smith that is not present in the original book "The Smoky God." The reviewer criticizes Norman/Smith's "overly-dramatic literary license" and the lack of a bibliography. Despite these flaws, the review notes that the book contains a lengthy description of the occult background of Hitler's Third Reich, which is considered essentially correct.

"Strange Disappearances" by Brad Steiger

This review discusses Brad Steiger's work, which covers disappearances and appearances of people and entities. The reviewer notes that Steiger has authored numerous paperbacks and articles on these topics. While Steiger's views are described as "far-out," the reviewer points out that his documentation is not always airtight. An example given is the alleged disappearance of Bill Verity in the Bermuda Triangle, who later turned up unharmed. The review also mentions the Oliver Larch/Lerch case, suggesting it may have been fabricated. The reviewer concludes that Steiger summarizes classic Fortean records but appears to accept strange accounts without skepticism.

"Investigating the Unexplained" by Ivan T. Sanderson

Ivan T. Sanderson is praised as a strong writer on Fortean matters, despite occasional awkwardness and verbosity. His book is described as a sequel to "Things and More Things," covering tales of odd species and enigmas. The review highlights Sanderson's discussion of sea monsters, the "Simrad" sonar detection device, and his critique of attempts to explain unusual echo-soundings. Sanderson's theories on the Loch Ness monster and the "Alaskan Longneck" are mentioned. The book also explores the origins of astrology, suggesting the Zodiac signs were simplifications of neighboring lands for travelers. Additionally, it discusses ancient artifacts, including a gold model of a delta-winged airplane and a jaguar-like artifact that appears to be a bulldozer, and speculates about ancient Egyptian priests using TV cameras and Van de Graaff generators.

Other Topics

"What I Really Believe"

This section, continued from page 6, discusses the nature of belief and scientific determination. The author notes that flattering qualitative descriptions are readily accepted but difficult to scientifically verify.

"Ellie" (continued from page 15)

This section details a series of communications with a spirit named Ellie through a Ouija board. The communications involve questions about heaven, deceased individuals, and spiritual teachings. There are also mentions of a man who was Wanda's father, who was later found to be alive.

"Sexual Morality and Religion" (continued from page 19)

This section appears to be a continuation of a discussion on sexual morality and religion, though the specific content is not fully detailed on the provided pages.

"Culture Corner"

This section features a review of "This Hollow Earth" and a discussion on the author's critique of the book's claims and the author's motivations.

Letters to the Editors

Several letters address various topics:

• Gene to Gene: A letter discusses the nature of poltergeists and their connection to a broader spectrum of psychic occurrences, referencing R. DeWitt Miller's work. It also touches upon the Congress of Scientific Ufologists convention and the press's access to proceedings.
• Allen H. Greenfield: This letter offers thoughts on women's rights, critiquing the National Organization for Women's approach as statist and authoritarian. It also discusses "limited war solutions" and the morality of mass violence.
• Curtis K. Sutherly: This letter responds to a critique of his article on UFOs and the Air Force, defending his position and questioning the assertions of Mr. Barker.
• Steve Erdmann: This letter critiques Alex Saunders' theory that Jesus was a "spaceman," arguing that it's a mundane explanation for a supernatural anomaly and ignores other psychic phenomena.
• Kurt Glemser: This letter, addressed to Mr. Steinberg, comments on the publication's name.
• R.F. Winters: This letter expresses concern about the publication's name and its potential impact on success.
• ERS (Editor's Note): Clarifies that "Dissenter/Disinter" was not a predecessor to CAVEAT EMPTOR, but that CAVEAT EMPTOR took over its subscribers due to financial difficulties. It also mentions taking over subscriptions for other publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, UFOs, and alternative explanations for phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. There's a critical stance towards mainstream societal norms and a willingness to question established narratives. The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry into unexplained events and phenomena, while also engaging in critical analysis of books and theories within these fields. The letters to the editor reveal a diversity of opinions on feminism, war, and the interpretation of religious and historical events, all within the context of exploring the "unexplained."

Title: CAVEAT EMPTOR
Issue: Winter, 1972-73
Publisher: G & G STEINBERG
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of CAVEAT EMPTOR, dated Winter 1972-73, features a prominent cover story titled "MONSTER ON THE LOOSE," focusing on the 'Missouri Monster' or 'Mo Mo' case. The magazine also includes reports on various UFO sightings and a selection of books related to paranormal and Fortean phenomena.

The Missouri Monster: 'Mo Mo'

The lead article details the sighting of a creature dubbed 'Mo Mo' by the press, which occurred on July 11th in Star Hill, Missouri. The creature, described as a smelly, hairy biped, was first seen by 8-year-old Terry Harrison, about 50 feet from his home. His 15-year-old sister Doris also saw it. 'Mo Mo' was reportedly carrying a dog. The article notes that strange occurrences had been reported in the Louisiana, Missouri area for about ten years prior. The foul odor of the creature was described as burnt sulphur or rotted meat. The Harrison family eventually moved into town due to the furor. The report mentions similar creatures sighted in the Florida Everglades, leaving footprints up to 17 inches long.

Ufologist Hayden Hewes and press members descended on the scene, leading to confusion. Hewes suggested that 'Mo Mo' might have been sent by 'flying saucer people.' Despite a lack of concrete evidence beyond a few tracks and hair strands, Hewes remained convinced the biped was real. Explorer and zoologist Ivan T. Sanderson is quoted as suggesting such creatures might be a primitive form of human life that survived.

The article critiques Hayden Hewes' shifting certainty, noting his claim that the 'Mo Mo' was the 'missing link' and his use of the terms 'Neanderthal man' and 'missing link' interchangeably. The editors acknowledge that something strange is occurring in the town but suggest that ignoring Hewes' publicity-seeking antics might lead to a better understanding of the events.

Saucers on the Loose

This section reports on several UFO sightings:

• Vietnam: On September 29th, a mysterious orange sphere was seen over Hanoi for over an hour and 20 minutes, and North Vietnamese military missiles failed to reach it.
• St. Louis, Missouri: On the night of July 22nd, three children reported a UFO dispatching five smaller, rotating, football-shaped, gold-colored objects that departed with a loud crackling sound.
• Marshfield, Massachusetts: On July 3rd, a translucent, delta-winged apparition hovered for 45 minutes and was tracked by local military installations.
• Western Pennsylvania: Before dawn on June 9th, a woman observed an oblong ball of fire rise up a tree and fly off, followed by a rectangular light that flew low over a bird bath and circled a pear tree.
• Western Kansas: On August 16th and 17th, witnesses encountered red glowing lights moving lazily or hovering, with one observer noting 'minor explosions within it.' A truck driver reported being followed by a strange light for about 3 miles.
• Dighton, Kansas: A cluster of bright lights has been observed multiple times a month, with police officers and citizens reporting intelligent maneuvers, including the object moving when attempts are made to transmit.

Flashes

This section provides brief updates:

• Curt Sutherly joined editors and readers on a trip to the Ringing Rocks on September 16th. Details will be in the next issue.
• The next issue will feature articles by Steve Erdmann, Floyd Murray, Richard Shaver, Dennis Stamey, and Curt Sutherly.
• The magazine thanks Fate magazine for a write-up in their November issue and mentions articles in the October Psychic Observer.

Book Advertisements

The magazine presents a list of "OUTSTANDING BOOKS" available for purchase, curated by "CAVEAT EMPTOR PRESENTS."

• (44) THE COMING OF THE SAUCERS by Kenneth Arnold and Ray Palmer ($2.64).
• (69) THE WRIGHT FIELD STORY by James W. Moseley ($5.00).
• (153) VERMIN FROM SPACE by Richard S. Shaver ($1.00).
• (154) MYSTERIOUS SHAVER by Richard S. Shaver ($1.00).
• (155) THE FINDING OF ADAM by Richard S. Shaver ($1.00).
• (156) GIANT EVENING WINGS by Richard S. Shaver ($1.00).
• (157) BLUE MANSIONS by Richard S. Shaver ($1.00).
• (158) SPECIAL OFFER! Books 154-157 for $3.00.
• (159) I REMEMBER LEMURIA! by Richard S. Shaver ($1.64).
• (160) THE SILVER BRIDGE by Gray Barker ($7.16).
• (161) THE ANCIENT ATLANTIC by L. Taylor ($2.64).
• (162) HE WALKED THE AMERICAS by L. Taylor Hansen ($7.16).
• (163) THE SMOKY GOD by Willis George Emerson ($2.64).
• (164) FLYING SAUCER PILGRIMAGE by Bryant and Helen Reeve ($2.64).
• (165) THE ADVENT OF THE COSMIC VIEWPOINT by Bryant Reeve ($3.64).
• (166) GODS OR SPACEMEN? by W.R. Drake ($2.64).
• (167) INVESTIGATING THE UNEXPLAINED by Ivan T. Sanderson ($8.16).
• (168) MYSTERIES OF THE SKIES: UFOS IN PERSPECTIVE by Gordon Lore and Harold Deneault ($7.16).

A note clarifies that these descriptions are from publishers' catalogs and CAVEAT EMPTOR does not necessarily endorse the content, but offers them in the public interest. Prices include 4th class postage, with delivery up to 4 weeks. Orders are to be sent to G & G STEINBERG, P.O. Box 688, Coatesville, Pa. 19320.

Other Features

• COMING SOON! Announcement for "THE SEARCH FOR THE HIDDEN WORLD" by Rick Hilberg, to be detailed in the next issue.
• PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS: The magazine has a new P.O. Box: 688, Coatesville, Pa. 19320. The telephone number remains 215-383-5399.
• Spaceview Magazine Advertisement: An ad for SPACEVIEW MAGAZINE, a bi-monthly publication on UFO news, offering subscriptions and a bonus photo.
• "Behold..the VENUS GARUDA" Advertisement: An ad for a book about winged space-aliens called Garudas, described as humanoids plotting to enslave humanity.
• "OHIO UFO REPORTER" Advertisement: An ad for the "Ohio UFO Reporter" magazine, described as providing detailed, objective reports on UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the "Missouri Monster" case, a variety of UFO sightings from different locations, and the promotion of books that delve into fringe science, ancient mysteries, and paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, while also maintaining a critical perspective on sensationalism, as evidenced by the critique of Hayden Hewes' approach to the 'Mo Mo' case. The magazine actively promotes a range of literature that explores these topics, suggesting a commitment to informing readers about a wide spectrum of unusual claims and theories.