Caveat Emptor - vol 3 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: No. 10
Volume: 3
Date: November - December, 1973
Publisher: G & G Enterprises
Price: 60¢

This issue of Caveat Emptor presents a diverse range of topics centered around the paranormal, UFO phenomena, and alternative historical theories. The cover features an abstract illustration, hinting at the mysterious and unconventional content within. The magazine includes a variety of articles, interviews, and book advertisements, reflecting a strong interest in the unexplained and fringe subjects.

Editorial

Eugene Steinberg, the editor, addresses two primary concerns: the challenges faced by publishers due to paper shortages and rising postal rates, and the declining quality of service from the U.S. Postal Service. He notes that while Caveat Emptor has managed to avoid increasing its subscription price, other publications are struggling. Steinberg expresses frustration with the postal service, highlighting instances where copies of the magazine have not reached subscribers, and urges readers to complain to both the magazine and their local post offices to seek improvement.

Feature Articles and Interviews

The Caveat Emptor Interview: Richard S. Shaver

The centerpiece of this issue is an extensive interview with Richard S. Shaver, conducted by Gene Steinberg and Richard S. Shaver himself. Shaver discusses his experiences and beliefs, which gained prominence through his writings in *Amazing Stories*. He clarifies that while his stories were presented as fiction, they were based on real experiences and observations.

Shaver recounts becoming aware of an underground civilization about 40 years prior, communicating with them mentally through cloud formations. He describes these beings as living in ancient buried cities, possessing advanced knowledge, and having longer lifespans due to their protected environment. He differentiates between 'teros,' who are inhabitants of these underground cities, and 'deros,' which he describes as a potentially hostile race that came from space and poses a threat to Earth.

He details a personal visit to an underground city, describing immense levels of buildings and technology. This visit ended abruptly when the underground dwellers were attacked by 'deros,' resulting in the death of many. Shaver managed to escape and return to the surface.

Shaver also discusses his work with 'rock books,' which he believes contain ancient texts and images from a highly advanced civilization that had space contact. He explains that these are not ordinary rocks but have engraved surfaces that reveal information when viewed correctly, possibly with specialized lighting like X-rays. He laments the lack of acceptance of these findings by the scientific community.

Regarding historical events, Shaver discusses Immanuel Velikovsky's theories on 'moonfalls,' suggesting the moon has struck the Earth multiple times, causing catastrophic tidal waves. He believes the next 'moonfall' might be the eighth and could be significant for humanity.

Shaver explains that his stories were written as fiction because the true nature of his experiences could not be published otherwise. He notes the decline of science-fiction readership with the rise of television, which impacted his ability to earn a living from writing.

The Patuxant Fishing Pond UFO

This article by Curtis K. Sutherly likely details a specific UFO sighting or encounter related to a fishing pond in Patuxant.

On Maintaining an Even Keel

Written by Lucius Farish, this piece may offer advice or commentary on maintaining stability or balance, possibly in the context of dealing with unusual phenomena or personal challenges.

Who (Or What) Are the Gods? (Part I)

Tim Zell explores the nature of deities, questioning their origins and identity, possibly linking them to extraterrestrial or advanced beings.

Fort-ifications (no. 2)

Paul J. Braczyk contributes the second part of an article on 'fortifications,' the subject of which is not fully detailed but could relate to ancient structures, defense mechanisms, or perhaps even the 'underground cities' discussed by Shaver.

We Go to See the Fortfest

Gene and Geneva Steinberg recount their experience attending an event called 'Fortfest,' likely related to the 'fortifications' theme.

Making Do After the War (Cartoon – no. 4)

This entry indicates a cartoon by Chris Riesbeck, possibly offering a humorous or satirical perspective on life after a conflict.

Other Content

U.F.O. Books: A section lists and describes various books related to UFO research, including titles by Dennis Stamey, Kurt Glemser, F.E. Stranges, and Gordon Lindsay, covering topics like 'The Dark Forces,' 'The Man in Black,' and 'Inner Earth.'

Flyer: Information is provided for 'Flying Saucer Up-Day!', a booklet by Laura Mundo, a pioneer UFO writer.

Advertisements: Several advertisements appear for related publications and services, including 'Spectrum, Psi Associates Journal,' 'Dissent-Disinter' journal, and 'Cosmo Link' for occult and esoteric information.

Advertising Rates: The magazine provides rates for advertising space.

Letters to the Editors and Newswatch: These sections would typically feature reader correspondence and brief news items related to UFOs and the paranormal.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor are UFOs, ancient civilizations, paranormal experiences, and alternative theories about Earth's history and inhabitants. The magazine appears to be a platform for exploring unconventional ideas, often drawing from personal accounts and speculative research. The editorial stance, as expressed by Eugene Steinberg, is one of resilience in the face of publishing challenges and a commitment to providing content that explores the unexplained, even while acknowledging the difficulties of production and distribution. The interview with Richard Shaver strongly supports the magazine's focus on hidden histories and encounters with non-human intelligences.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated November-December 1973, features a cover story by Curtis K. Sutherly titled "THE PATUXANT FISHING POND UFO: WAS A COVERUP ATTEMPTED?". The magazine also includes articles by Lucius Farish, Tim Zell, and Paul Braczyk, along with book reviews and commentary.

THE PATUXANT FISHING POND UFO: WAS A COVERUP ATTEMPTED?

This article details an alleged UFO sighting at the Patuxant Fishing Pond in Odenton, Maryland, on March 24, 1973. James T. Rhule, a resident of Odenton, reported the incident to the author. Rhule described a yellow-white sphere observed by 24-30 witnesses, including himself, performing aerobatics for about 15 minutes. Following the sighting, Rhule received a hoax letter demanding he cease his investigation.

Rhule's subsequent attempts to contact other witnesses were met with a "wall of silence"; most denied being present or provided alibis that were confirmed by others. The investigation also explored the proximity of Fort Meade, an Army installation, and the potential interest of the NSA. A police officer, whose name is withheld, analyzed the hoax letter, noting the use of two types of glue and magazine letters, possibly from TV Guide. No fingerprints were found, suggesting gloves were used.

The article also critiques the research methods of John Keel, questioning his handling of cases like the "Oliver Lerch" disappearance and the "Walesville" plane crash, suggesting Keel overlooked readily available documentation. Keel's tendency to accept information from tabloids is contrasted with his dismissal of other researchers' findings.

ON MAINTAINING AN EVEN KEEL

By Lucius Farish

This article is a response to criticisms made by researcher John Keel in the Spring and September-October 1973 issues of Caveat Emptor. Farish argues that Keel, while criticizing "buffs" for paranoia and unwillingness to accept documented material contrary to their beliefs, exhibits similar practices himself.

Farish challenges Keel's conclusions on several cases:

1. Oliver Lerch Disappearance: Keel suggested Brad Steiger "solved" this case by linking it to Ambrose Bierce's fictional story "Charles Ashmore." Farish points out that Bierce's stories were fiction and that the David Lang disappearance, which may have inspired Bierce, is itself questionable, with the Gallatin, Tennessee Chamber of Commerce reportedly calling it a hoax.
2. Walesville Plane Crash: Keel questioned the existence of Walesville, NY, and a UFO-related plane crash. George Fritts confirmed Walesville's existence and a jet fighter crash (F-94C Starfire) on July 2, 1954, during a UFO intercept mission. An Associated Press dispatch from July 3, 1954, also corroborated the event.
3. KLEE-TV Incident: Keel claimed Dr. Frank Drake investigated the KLEE-TV incident and found it to be a hoax. Farish refers to an article by Ivan T. Sanderson in Pursuit, suggesting that TV viewers in the northern U.S. and Canada also picked up the "fake" signals, and questions how Drake's findings explain North American incidents.
4. "Sisterville" Dirigible Sighting: Keel mentioned a "Sisterville" dirigible sighting from 1897. Farish corrects the town name to Sistersville, WV, and questions Keel's research, suggesting he failed to check local newspapers and historical societies. He also notes that Keyhoe's account was not the only one, citing Charles Fort's The Books of Charles Fort.
5. Tabloid Reliance: Farish criticizes Keel for reproducing a "totally fabricated" article from the National Bulletin in his Anomaly Supplement, despite Keel previously warning against such tabloids. The article concerned Fred Hoyle's supposed beliefs about "alien minds," which Hoyle himself denied.

Farish also corrects an impression left by Keel regarding the circulation of Skylook, stating it is now 600-700 per month.

WHO (OR WHAT) ARE THE GODS? (Part 1)

By Tim Zell

This article, the first part of a series, explores the concept of divinity from the perspective of the Church of All Worlds, which Zell founded. He argues that theological confusion often arises from attributing diverse phenomena to a single cause, similar to how sea serpents are misidentified or how UFOs and psychic phenomena are lumped together.

Zell proposes a definition of divinity as "Thou art God" as "the highest level of aware consciousness accessible to each living being, manifesting itself in the self-actualization of that being." This view emphasizes immanence, responsible freedom, and the actualization of ultimate potential. He suggests that divinity can be understood through levels of organization, from single cells to complex organisms and ecosystems, with each level representing a synergistic whole greater than the sum of its parts.

The article uses the human body as an example, illustrating how cells form tissues, tissues form organs, organs form systems, and systems form an organism. Each level is presented as a manifestation of "God." Zell extends this concept to Mother Earth as a living being, representing the highest level of organization yet attained by the life-stream.

Paul Braczyk's Fort-ifications

This section includes several short pieces:

• Emile Slazek's Assignment: A narrative about Emile Slazek, an investigator for a British bureau, sending a cryptic telegram from Bogota, Colombia, to the United States, warning that "FORT-IFICATIONS LIVES!" and that he must be stopped.
• Mysterious Visitors: The UFO Story: A review of Brinsley Le Poer Trench's book, which the reviewer finds interesting but largely based on quoted material without much original research. The reviewer notes Trench's "Ultraterrestrial Theory" and its possible links to psychic phenomena, but finds the argument unconvincing.
• Flat Earth Society: A quote from Charles Johnson, President of the International Flat Earth Research Society of America, asserting that the Earth is flat based on the behavior of water. The article notes the Society's mission to debunk "science" as a "monstrous and insane false religion."
• Book Reviews:
• Bigfoot: The Yeti and Sasquatch in Myth and Reality by John Napier: The reviewer notes that Napier, a Professor of Primate Biology, cautiously accepts the existence of Bigfoot as an unidentified creature, moving beyond mere myth.
• The Natural History of the Vampire by Anthony Masters: Described as the best of the lot, detailing ancient and modern vampires.
• The Vampire: His Kith and Kin by Montague Summers: A reprint of a classic book on vampires.
• The Book of Vampires by Dudley Wright: A reprint of a 1914 study of vampirism.
• The Book of Werewolves by Sabine Baring-Gould: A reprint of an 1865 work considered the first serious study of werewolves.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions official narratives and promotes critical examination of phenomena, particularly UFOs and related topics. There is a strong emphasis on debunking perceived misinformation and exposing potential coverups. The editorial stance appears to be skeptical of established scientific and governmental explanations, while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims within the UFO community itself, as seen in the critique of John Keel's research methods. The articles explore a range of subjects including UFO sightings, historical mysteries, philosophical concepts of divinity, and paranormal phenomena, often with a contrarian or investigative tone.

Title: CAVEAT EMPTOR
Issue: November-December, 1973

This issue of Caveat Emptor delves into the "Fortfest" convention, a gathering of the International Fortean Organization (INFO), and features a report on the presence and activities of John Keel. It also includes reviews of several books touching on paranormal, occult, and theological themes, alongside reader correspondence.

The Fortfest Convention

The article "WE GO TO SEE THE FORTFEST" by Gene & Geneva Steinberg details their experience at the first annual convention of the International Fortean Organization (INFO) in Silver Spring, Maryland. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation regarding the appearance of John Keel, a prominent figure in ufology. Keel was scheduled to speak on a topic so obscure that only "arch-admirers of Charles Fort himself" would likely understand it. The convention was held at the ISIS Center, an occult bookstore with a small lecture hall, and attendance was limited by INFO organizers Ron and Paul Willis. Despite initial concerns about the heat, the venue was air-conditioned. John Keel was indeed present, and the authors note his apparent enjoyment of the event, despite his protests about being the center of attention. He was seen handing out "Keel for King" buttons and bumper stickers. The article includes a quote from Keel referencing Mr. Fort being referred to as "Charlie the top" and spinning in his grave.

Richard Hall, former Associate Director of NICAP, and Isabel Davis, a leader of the now-defunct Civilian Saucer Intelligence (CSI) of New York, are mentioned. A peculiar incident involving Jim Moseley being led away in a black Cadillac is also recounted.

Despite the "Mosslie tragedy" and other events, the convention is described as having "without much drama." The Willis Brothers denied any connection to a man found hiding in a closet with a tape recorder, who claimed to be with the Gas Company.

Among the highlights of the convention were an animated cartoon film titled "Flatland" and a model of a "famous ancient gold relic that looks like a delta-wing aircraft." A paper on "Psychoanalytic Speculations on Resistance to Forteana" was also noted. The Saturday program included a lecture on the physical theory of acupuncture, which the author found fascinating but the seating uncomfortable. The Sunday session featured a film on Stonehenge.

Book Reviews

A BOOK OF DREAMS by Peter Reich

This review by Jerome Eden praises Peter Reich's first volume, "A Book of Dreams," as a book that "jolts us out of our everyday affairs and propels us at jet speed into depths and heights that are as shocking as they are exhilarating." The book offers insights into the childhood of the author with his father, the scientist Wilhelm Reich, M.D. It touches upon Wilhelm Reich's conflicts with those who branded him "insane," his battles with government entities seeking his scientific secrets, and his theories about UFOs being involved in a "worldwide planetary destruction by military means." The review highlights that Dr. Reich believed UFOs utilized "Cosmic Orgone Energy" for propulsion and to create weather changes harmful to Earth. The author of the review claims to have personally verified the functionality of Reich's "Cloudbuster" device. The book is recommended for its ability to introduce readers to these "startling disclosures about UFOs" in a way that maintains their equilibrium.

MYSTERIOUS VISITORS: THE UFO STORY by Brinsley Le Poer Trench

This review by Eugene Steinberg describes Brinsley Le Poer Trench's book as an "optimistic viewpoint on the advent of UFOs." Unlike many writers who portray flying saucers as harbingers of doom, Trench suggests that "The Sky People" may offer a way out of humanity's plight. The book is noted for collating known information about human history and UFO appearances, producing an "entertaining and well-written work." Trench's earlier book, "The Sky People," is mentioned as having helped set the stage for speculation about ancient astronauts. "Mysterious Visitors" is seen as a continuation of Trench's efforts to simplify the complexities of the UFO enigma. The author posits that "The Sky People" may have influenced mankind's development, either through selective breeding or interbreeding. The review suggests that humanity has lost its way and is facing a "nightmare of pollution, energy shortages and threats of war." Trench's theory of "saucerians from other dimensions or realms" is discussed, as is the concept of "hyperspace" travel. The review also includes Trench's sobering thought that some "space people" are not friendly and are alleged to emanate from an invisible area pertaining to this planet, distinguishing them from the "real Sky People."

THE LATE GREAT PLANET EARTH by Hal Lindsey

This review by Hal Lindsey describes the book as a "panoramic view of Biblical prophecy" that is "intriguing." It notes that Herbert W. Armstrong and Billy Graham have espoused similar messages. Lindsey's work is characterized as a "reasonable, point by point review of Bible prophecy against modern events," presented in a "concise, pure, crystal clear" format. The review poses questions about prophecy, its superiority, Old Testament prophets, the Messiah, and the fulfillment of prophecy. The book is described as accelerating to a finale concerning "Israel, the Arm of God."

Letters to the Editors

Dulcie Brown's Letter

Dulcie Brown from Fresno, California, writes to comment on Mr. Shaver's theories. She questions why, if Shaver found a cave with humanoids and machinery, he hasn't led others to the place to prove it. She challenges him to take scientists and newsmen to the location to prove his claims about "teros and deros" and their "wicked machinations."

Editor's Response to Dulcie Brown

The editor responds to Dulcie Brown's letter, suggesting that Shaver might be tired of answering such questions. The editor posits that if scientists and newsmen were to enter the caves, they might "never return," and that Shaver believes his experiences are true, portraying him as a "gentle, kind-hearted person" who would not condemn others to death. The editor encourages readers to explore caves themselves and report back.

Gene & Geneva's Letter

Gene and Geneva write to address a remark by Mr. Sutherland regarding the "Kingdom of God in the Millennial sense." They argue that Christ's coming Kingdom will indeed relate to Earth, referencing the stone that broke Nebuchadnezzar's dream as symbolizing Jehovah's Kingdom. They also discuss the theory that Jesus was an Essene, presenting arguments against it and suggesting that Christians were told to "come out from among the times." They also touch upon the concept of the "Logos" and the "Grand Mover."

Morris Katzen's Analysis

Morris Katzen's analysis of Revelation 12:9 is discussed, with agreement that the Devil existed at that time. Rev. 20:12 is described as "hyperbole or symbolism of the Last Judgment," and the Garden of Eden is noted as not being mentioned. The letter also touches on Galatians 3:16, referring to descendancy and the covenant with Abraham.

Steve Erdmann's Letter

Steve Erdmann from St. Louis, Missouri, writes to comment on the "Gods From Outer Space" theory. He argues that myths and legends are not necessarily factual records but rather reflect what people wish to believe. He contends that the Judeo-Christian Bible is a mythological work and that its myths deserve no more credence than other legends. Erdmann points out that if Mr. Erdmann believes demons visited Earth but not gods, and that Jesus was a god, he contradicts himself. He also discusses the myth of incubi and succubi, suggesting that such explanations were used to account for phenomena people didn't understand during the Dark Ages. He concludes that myths are perpetuated when people are not permitted to think for themselves.

Cosmo Lang Lodge's Letter

Cosmo Lang Lodge from Marlborough, New Hampshire, comments on several articles. Regarding Dr. Martello's statement that a person without ego is soulless, Lodge suggests that avatars have been selfless beings. Concerning Mr. Eden's statement that mystics cannot attain peace and perfect love, Lodge proposes that some personalities have transcended the anthropoid vehicle and its limitations. Lodge also comments on Mr. Shaver's assertion that all spacecraft of unknown origin are negative, stating that this is a strong claim and that many craft are from "star systems unquestionably loyal to Cosmic administration." Finally, Lodge discusses the possibility of a planet within Mercury's orbit, referencing astral projection experiences that indicate its presence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor include UFO phenomena, Forteana, occultism, and biblical prophecy. The magazine appears to present a platform for diverse viewpoints on these subjects, as evidenced by the "Letters to the Editors" section, which features debates and differing interpretations of religious and paranormal concepts. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to think critically and explore these often-controversial topics, while also providing reviews of relevant literature and reporting on related events like the Fortfest convention.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated November-December 1973, focuses heavily on the 'Great Southeast Saucer Flap,' a significant wave of UFO sightings that occurred in late August and September of that year. The magazine also includes reader correspondence on various topics, updates on ongoing UFO investigations, and promotional material for related publications.

The Great Southeast Saucer Flap

The lead article details a surge in UFO reports beginning on August 31, 1973, across southern Georgia and northern Florida, which quickly spread throughout the United States. The situation was so intense that no single organization or magazine could keep up with the reports, a situation not seen since the mid-1960s. The article notes that an updated and expanded report would be provided in the next issue.

On September 1st, Nancy White of Tifton, Georgia, reported seeing three UFOs for approximately 45 minutes. One object was described as star-like, larger than the others, and capable of maneuvering and changing colors. While some photographs were taken, they were dismissed as typical fuzzy lights. The sightings continued throughout the week, witnessed by citizens, police, and newsmen. The Air Force, having previously abandoned its saucer investigative project in 1969, reportedly avoided involvement.

An amateur astronomer suggested that decaying satellites might be responsible for some of the sightings. Dr. Ralph Bruce of the Fernbank Science Center in Georgia supported this, noting that satellites were expected to re-enter the atmosphere, and their fiery disintegration could cause unexplained aerial displays.

The situation escalated on September 8th when two military policemen near Hunter Army Base in Savannah were forced off the road by a UFO. The object, described as having flashing lights, dived toward their car, causing them to go into a ditch. The UFO then hovered near the car as they tried to free it and followed them as they returned to headquarters.

Several other incidents are detailed: A reporter from Savannah, Marcus Holland, saw a UFO travelling at 70 mph that outran his car. Susan Singular of the Albany Herald reported seeing three UFOs joined by three more. Corporal John Kitchell of Savannah observed a large circular craft with changing spotlights and blue flashing lights. Georgia State Trooper R.E. Traylor reported a large glowing object moving south at high speed, floating like a balloon. Another UFO was seen over Manchester, moving too fast to identify.

Chester A. Tatum, publisher of the Sowege Free Press, photographed a UFO described as 'ribbed' with a luminous trail. An unconfirmed report mentioned a flying saucer landing in a cemetery, with children reporting large black dogs leaving the spaceship.

Mrs. Virginia Smith of Morrow, Georgia, saw a shiny, pipe-like object that remained at treetop level for 15 minutes before moving northwest. The orange-colored object was described as the size of a large airliner with protruding pipes.

In northwest Atlanta, James R. Wyatt II and Mrs. Alma Ethridge reported seeing three glowing objects moving erratically. Mary Alice Rhodes described an object that looked like a plane cracking up, with flashing lights, near Doraville.

Rast Clayton of Orchard Hill witnessed a bright gold object descend like a rotating top, leaving a scorched area. Soil samples taken by Dr. O.E. Anderson of the University of Georgia revealed the soil was still hot 30 minutes later, ruling out conventional explanations.

On September 14th, Roy Lawthorn fired shots at a gold, glowing object described as 'as big as your head' that appeared to float towards his house and disappear into the ground, leaving a charred area.

Further reports include sightings by P.M. Pilalas and J.O. Davis in Shelby County, Tennessee, involving lights that surrounded a central object. Obion County Sheriff Nathan Cunningham described a large, bright white light with red, green, and blue lights, emitting a humming sound.

National Park Service Ranger Thomas E. Westmoreland and three other rangers, along with a deputy sheriff, observed a gigantic craft with red, green, and yellow flashing lights for about 15 minutes on October 3rd.

Eddie Doyle Webb of Greenville, Missouri, reported being blinded for several hours after a 'large ball of fire' struck him while he was driving a tractor-trailer rig.

Dr. Harley Rutledge of Southeast Missouri State University studied Webb's glasses, finding they had been heated internally, and was investigating UFO reports.

The magazine also previews a sensational case for the next issue involving two Mississippi fishermen who claim they were taken aboard a flying saucer, with former Air Force consultant Dr. J. Allen Hynek reportedly concluding a spaceship landed and that the contactees were subjected to hypnosis.

UFO Activity Over Lebanon, PA.

On September 9th, three residents of Annville, Pennsylvania, including police officer Jerry Wochester, witnessed a strange object in the pre-dawn skies. The object, not a star, changed colors and vanished after about 20 minutes, estimated to be flying at an altitude of 10,000 feet.

An Aircraft UFO Encounter?

Reports were received by Caveat Emptor about sightings by Eastern Airlines pilots over the Washington/Baltimore area in mid-September. Pilots described a large, glowing object that flickered and seemed to disappear and reappear. One pilot described the UFO as 'zapping out.'

Aurora, TX. Revisited

This section provides an update on the ongoing efforts to exhume the alleged UFO-naut grave in Aurora, Texas. Walter H. Andrus of MUFON is leading the drive, facing resistance from local authorities. Hayden C. Hewes, who initially brought attention to the case, has reportedly reversed his position and now opposes opening the grave.

Reader Correspondence

Several letters from readers are included:

• John Brzeski expresses frustration with repeated form letters and dislikes the magazine's punch line, requesting his subscription be cancelled.
• Mr. & Mrs. Steinberg receive a suggestion from ERS to focus less on unprovable subjects like Witchcraft and Satanism, and more on economics and the fallacies of old religions.
• Walter Jerome Gordon, a Spiritualist for 57 years, agrees with the need for articles on economics and criticizes 'Phoney Psychics,' while asserting the prevalence of Mediumship and Spiritualism.
• Laura Mundo responds to a comment about the planet being 'over' soon, clarifying that it refers to a climax in the sunspot cycle and that civilization will be shaken up, with 'space people' removing those they can. She also mentions a UPI announcement about solar flares and claims Bobbie Dick(h)off is incorrect about space people being cannibals.
• ERS responds to Walter Jerome Gordon, agreeing on the economic issues but disagreeing with the dismissal of Witchcraft as unprovable, stating it is a religion. ERS also notes a recent drop in the wholesale price index but expresses pessimism about the overall trend.

Advertisements and Promotions

The issue contains several advertisements and promotional sections:

• ESP ORBIT is promoted as a publication that treats metaphysicians and occultists with respect, offering news, articles, and a calendar of events. A sample copy costs 50 cents, and an annual subscription is $4 domestic/$6 foreign.
• Morris Katzen offers two books: 'KEYS TO LIFE' ($3.00), interpreting the Bible through alchemy, and 'THE ELIXIR OF LIFE' ($2.00), revealing alchemy's connection to the body and healing.
• SS&S PUBLICATIONS offers three books compiled by Gene Duplantier: 'OUTER SPACE HUMOR' ($1.25), 'SPACEDUST' ($1.95) featuring UFO and space stories, and 'HIDDEN PLANETS' ($1.25) on hidden worlds and UFOlogy.
• Donald J. Battey offers psychic consultations, workshops, and letters/tapes for a fee.
• A FREE NEWSLETTER from UFO SIGHTINGS NEWSLETTER is available, covering UFO reports, MIB, 4th dimension, and hidden UFO bases. It also promotes the book 'ORDIEA - PLANET OF FEAR' by Janice M. Croy for $2.50.
• Janice M. Croy is listed as the contact for the above.
• OHIO UFO REPORTER is advertised as a publication with detailed UFO reports, with sample copies at 50 cents and a year's subscription at $3.00.
• A. Candle offers an explanation of 'GHOSTS from the Scriptures.'
• Behold..the VENUS GARUDA is advertised as a $6 book by R.E. Dickhoff, Ph.D., detailing alien space creatures called Garudas who regard Earthlings as food and plot to enslave humanity.
• School of Wicca offers a serenity guide, protective pentacle, and course information for $1.00, focusing on witchcraft spells for success, security, and power.
• Psychic Reality is promoted as a monthly newsletter covering lost worlds, ancient astronauts, psychic healing, mind control, ESP, reincarnation, and more. A one-year subscription is $7.50 and includes a free copy of 'The Aliens' by Hayden C. Hawes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor are UFO sightings and related phenomena, with a particular focus on the extensive 'Southeast Saucer Flap' of 1973. The magazine presents numerous eyewitness accounts and details investigations into these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, encouraging readers to submit their own reports and offering a platform for diverse viewpoints, including those outside mainstream science. There is also a consistent interest in spiritualism, the occult, and alternative explanations for reality, as evidenced by reader letters and advertisements for related publications and services. The magazine also touches upon economic concerns and critiques traditional religious narratives, suggesting a broader interest in societal issues beyond just UFOs.