Caveat Emptor - vol 4 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: No. 16 (Winter 1988-89)
Publisher: Cross-Country Communications
Country: USA
Original Language: English
Price: $3.00

Caveat Emptor, a magazine dedicated to exploring the strange and unknown, including UFOs, the Bermuda Triangle, and the occult, has returned after a 14-year absence. The current issue, No. 16, published in Winter 1988-89, marks its relaunch with a cover headline proclaiming "Celebrating Our Return After 14 Years!" The magazine aims to provide authentic investigative reporting and good writing, with a unique approach that questions beliefs rather than proclaiming them as gospel.

Editorial: Birth, Death & Resurrection

In his editorial, Gene Steinberg, the editor, reflects on the magazine's return and its philosophy. He states that Caveat Emptor covers a wide range of topics, from UFOs to the occult, and prides itself on being different from other magazines in the field. The magazine's approach is to question beliefs and encourage readers to "let the buyer beware," separating fact from fancy while maintaining a journalistic integrity. Steinberg admits to disbelieving much of what is written about UFOs, but acknowledges that the thousands of people who have seen strange craft are not entirely mistaken, suggesting a residue of unexplained events. He touches upon the controversy surrounding alleged government documents about a crashed UFO (the "MJ-12" affair) and the debate over whether UFOs are manifestations of another reality or plane of existence.

The Story of Caveat Emptor's Demise and Return

The "WE'RE BACK!" section and subsequent articles detail the magazine's history. Caveat Emptor was first published in the 1970s, gaining a reputation for its investigative reporting and unique perspective, which dared to link UFOs with other paranormal phenomena like ancient astronauts and witchcraft. However, in 1974, during an economic slump, the magazine published its final issue and disappeared. The editors explain that the world of 1988 is different, with many of the magazine's earlier ideas now more widely accepted. They have decided to resume publication to explore new horizons in UFO research and related mysteries.

Gene Steinberg takes responsibility for the magazine's demise in 1974. He explains that after his divorce from his wife Geneva, who was instrumental in the magazine's unique style, he attempted to turn Caveat Emptor into a commercial, newsstand enterprise. He partnered with another journalist but faced significant challenges, including issues with acquiring the subscription list and assets of "Spaceview" magazine from Sammy Paradice. This acquisition proved financially disastrous, with many subscriptions being obsolete or unaccounted for, leading to a flood of complaints and significant financial losses. Ultimately, the magazine could not sustain itself and ceased publication.

After the closure, Steinberg established a graphic arts agency and later explored other avenues. He was inspired to relaunch Caveat Emptor by reading about another underground publisher whose magazine had died and then reappeared. He contacted former writers to gauge their interest, and the result is the current issue. The magazine will initially return as a quarterly, with its future frequency depending on reader reception. The content will continue to be an eclectic blend of UFOlogy, the paranormal, and paganism, with a potential for more conventional topics as well.

Feature Articles

THE CAVEAT EMPTOR INTERVIEW: JAMES W. MOSELEY

This issue features an in-depth interview with James W. Moseley, described as one of the most controversial figures in the UFO field, often labeled a "cynical prankster." Moseley, who first became interested in UFOs in the early 1950s, founded "Nexus" (later renamed "Saucer News") in 1954. His publication was known for its sense of humor and parodies, which sometimes led readers to take them seriously. Moseley discusses his involvement in hoaxes with Gray Barker, stating that these were intended to increase reader interest and that he is more serious now than he was then, though he still enjoys the foibles of human nature.

Moseley explains that his publication, "Saucer Smear," is a non-scheduled newsletter sent to a select group of "elite" readers in the UFO field, whom he labels "non-subscribers." He believes he performs a unique service by offering his perspective and editorials, which are then discussed in letters to the editor. He started "Saucer News" in 1954 after a research project and a trip across the country interviewing contactees, scientists, and UFO witnesses. He met Gray Barker in 1953, and they became good friends for over 30 years. The "infamous feud" between Moseley and Barker in the mid-1950s to 1960s was an evolution of their friendship, intended to create reader interest and humor, akin to Jack Benny and Fred Allen. Moseley suggests that Barker, while pretending to be serious, did not believe much of what he printed.

Moseley states that he believes in the possibility that UFOs are real, but that a large portion of sightings can be explained conventionally. He also notes that he has a genuine interest in South American antiques and runs a small antique shop in Key West, Florida.

UFO RESEARCH: SOME THOUGHTS ON THE STATE OF THE ART

By Floyd Murray, this article suggests that there may not be simple answers to the UFO mystery, and that the enigma may never be solved. The author implies that the field is complex and that easy explanations might be misleading.

THE EGO CORNER: STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS

Geneva Hagen resumes her column after 14 years, focusing on various movements she is interested in and how her views have evolved. This suggests a broader scope for the magazine beyond just UFOs, encompassing other paranormal and cultural topics.

MAINSTREAM MUSINGS: THE EXTREMISTS OF HIGH-END AUDIO

By Gene Steinberg, this article humorously compares the perceived strangeness of chasing UFOs to the world of high-end audio, where people spend significant amounts of money on equipment like audio cables and turntables.

Departments

• EDITORIAL: Gene Steinberg addresses the question of why Caveat Emptor is back after 14 years, hinting at a story behind its unexpected demise.
• CULTURE CORNER: This section looks at a new UFO magazine, two TV shows, and other related media.
• NEWSWATCH: This department covers news and developments from the frontiers of science.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in Caveat Emptor include UFOlogy, the paranormal, and the occult. The magazine's editorial stance, as articulated by Gene Steinberg, is one of critical inquiry and a desire to question beliefs rather than accept them uncritically. There is a strong emphasis on journalistic principles, thorough research, and well-documented conclusions. While acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena and the sincerity of many witnesses, the magazine maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach, often incorporating humor and a unique perspective to engage readers. The relaunch signifies a commitment to continuing this tradition of exploration and investigation into the strange and unknown.

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: Winter, 1988-89
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Caveat Emptor features an in-depth interview with Jim Moseley, editor of Saucer Smear, and an article by Floyd Murray titled "UFO Research: Some Thoughts on the State of the Art." The content primarily focuses on UFO phenomena, hoaxes, research methodologies, and the evolution of the field.

Interview with Jim Moseley

The interview with Jim Moseley, conducted by Steinberg, delves into several key UFO-related topics, including hoaxes, specific cases, and the general state of the UFO community.

The Straith Letter Hoax

Moseley recounts the creation of the "Straith letter" hoax, which he perpetrated with Gray Barker. The letter, written on State Department stationery, was designed to encourage George Adamski and others in the field. Moseley explains that Barker's distinctive writing style was evident in the letter, and that the State Department stationery was obtained illicitly. He notes that Adamski never considered the letter a hoax, and even when the FBI investigated, Adamski continued to publicize it, much to their frustration. The letter's existence was later confirmed through Freedom of Information Act releases.

The MJ-12 Document

Moseley discusses the MJ-12 document, an alleged presidential briefing from 1953 concerning UFOs and a crashed craft at Roswell, New Mexico. He expresses skepticism about its authenticity, particularly because Dr. Donald Menzel, an anti-saucer professor, is listed as one of the twelve members. Moseley also finds it convenient that the document aligns with William Moore's prior statements. He believes Moore is a victim rather than a perpetrator of a hoax, possibly being manipulated. Moseley mentions a controversial videotape associated with the MJ-12 documents that allegedly discusses Christ as a 'space man.' He argues that if the document were genuine, the media would have given it more attention.

Dick Hall and NICAP

Moseley shares a negative history with Dick Hall of NICAP, stemming from an incident where Hall accused Moseley of taping a conversation. Moseley describes Hall as paranoid and states they have not gotten along for over 20 years.

The Gulf Breeze Case

Moseley mentions that the Gulf Breeze case is currently causing issues within MUFON, and that he does not believe in its authenticity, having made sarcastic remarks about it in Saucer Smear.

The 'Mr. Ed' Case

Moseley describes the 'Mr. Ed' case in Florida, involving a local businessman who has taken numerous UFO photographs. While some find the case compelling, others suspect it may be a hoax due to 'Mr. Ed's' reputation. The case has divided MUFON.

The 'Wrong Field Story'

Moseley debunks the "Wrong Field Story," which he attributes to Gray Barker. The incident, which took place at Columbus Air Force Base in 1952 or 1953, involved a civilian employee who claimed to have seen UFO-related messages and photographs. Moseley investigated and found that while the names were real, the claims were denied. He speculates the story was fabricated by the employee to impress her saucer-enthusiast boss.

The Nature of UFO Phenomena

Moseley expresses a belief that while the UFO field is filled with speculation and lacks absolute proof, there is likely something real occurring that is beyond current human understanding. He likens the situation to how physicists study phenomena they cannot directly observe.

Moseley's Role in the Field

Moseley acknowledges his dual role as a serious researcher and someone who enjoys playing jokes within the field. He sees his approach as a way to keep things from becoming too serious and to maintain a hobbyist's enjoyment.

Article: UFO Research: Some Thoughts on the State of the Art by Floyd Murray

Floyd Murray, writing under his own name and the pseudonym "Richard E. Wiplash," offers his perspective on the evolution of UFO research over the past 14 years since the last issue of Caveat Emptor.

State of UFO Research Since 1974

Murray observes that the core arguments and speculations in UFOlogy have remained largely the same since 1974, with "ancient astronauts" and "men in black" (MIB) being prominent themes. He notes that while the faces have changed, the fundamental mysteries persist. He mentions his own involvement in investigations in the San Luis Valley, Colorado, and his research into MIB reports and historical "airship" cases.

The Role of Hoaxes and Fads

Murray suggests that phenomena like MIB reports and cattle mutilations can be seen as fads that catch on when promoted by individuals. However, he also believes that these phenomena, and others like abductions, have a genuine underlying basis and will continue to occur, adapting to current trends.

Abduction Phenomenon

Regarding the surge in abduction reports, Murray believes it is primarily a mental phenomenon, not a physical one, and that while many sincere people are involved, there is a lack of physical evidence. He draws a parallel to Carl Jung's concept of the "collective unconscious."

The Influence of Media and Culture

Murray points to Steven Spielberg's films as a factor in making aliens more acceptable and less threatening in popular culture. He also notes a shift in younger generations towards a more logical, linear way of thinking, often equating UFOs with extraterrestrials and outer space.

The Nature of UFOs and Their Purpose

Murray speculates that UFOs may be interdimensional or thought forms, and that their purpose might be to direct human attention towards origins, the universe, and a broader awareness. He draws a parallel between modern UFO sightings and the 1896-1897 airship sightings, suggesting the entire UFO story was compressed into that earlier period.

Skepticism and the Future of UFO Research

Murray expresses that while he has a serious interest in the subject, he remains skeptical due to the lack of absolute proof. He believes that if something real is occurring, it is beyond our current understanding and may remain so. He finds the field increasingly "wilder" and more complex, with researchers like John Lear proposing extreme theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the idea that the UFO phenomenon is complex, often shrouded in mystery, and subject to hoaxes and misinterpretations. Both Moseley and Murray express a degree of skepticism regarding definitive answers, emphasizing the lack of concrete proof and the speculative nature of many theories. There's a recurring theme of questioning the government's role in secrecy and the difficulty in separating genuine phenomena from manufactured ones. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging the persistence of the mystery while remaining cautious about accepting extraordinary claims without rigorous evidence. The magazine seems to favor a nuanced view, recognizing the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena while also being acutely aware of the prevalence of hoaxes and psychological factors within the UFO field.

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: Winter, 1988-89
Date: Winter, 1988-89 (Estimated November 1, 1988)

This issue of Caveat Emptor, a magazine known for its exploration of fringe topics, offers a diverse collection of articles covering UFO phenomena, the high-end audio market, New Age spirituality, and political and social commentary. The publication aims to provide a unique perspective on subjects often overlooked by mainstream media.

The Ego Corner: Still Crazy, After All These Years by Geneva Hagen

Geneva Hagen, co-founder and former co-editor of Caveat Emptor, reflects on the changes in various movements and phenomena that the magazine has covered over its 14-year history. She begins by humorously advising readers to "feel for your wallet!" if someone calls out about a UFO sighting, suggesting a skepticism towards sensational claims.

War and Peace and Politics

Hagen notes that the U.S. is out of Vietnam but continues to exert negative influence in Southeast Asia, even recognizing the exiled Khmer Rouge government of Cambodia. In Central America, the U.S. has relied on paid mercenaries, with most Americans showing little interest due to the absence of a draft. Disinformation has muddled the news media, making it difficult to get a straight story. She criticizes the political landscape, mentioning Watergate and Irangate, and the replacement of Nixon with a "senile Hollywood actor" (referring to Reagan) whose term saw a skyrocketing national debt and cuts to social programs.

Voices from the Past

Dr. Leo Louis Martello, a former staff witch, continues to publish on Witchcraft. Tim Zell, now known as Otter, has moved and is involved with raising Unicorns and the Earth Church of Amargi. Robert Heinlein, author of "Stranger in a Strange Land," which inspired the Church of All Worlds philosophy, passed away at age 80. The Green Egg magazine has resumed publication, and Otter and Morning Glory are to be handfasted with Diana Darling. Hagen also notes the independent development of the Gaia Hypothesis by Dr. J. Lovelock, which was previously explored in The Green Egg as the concept of "Terrebia."

World Population

The global population has reached five billion, but the growth rate has slowed in more prosperous countries. Experts suggest lowering infant mortality is key to this trend. However, the Reagan administration's policies have caused the infant mortality rate to creep upward again.

Status of Women

Women still face economic disparities, earning less than men for the same work, despite Equal Opportunity Laws. However, there's progress in professions, and efforts are being made to use non-sexist language. The women's movement is substantial, aiming to reconstruct women's roles in history, and Goddess-centered religions are gaining adherents and legal recognition.

Sexual Customs

Hermes was initially seen as a threat to the Moral Majority but had little impact. AIDS, however, is a significant concern, with questions raised about the HIV virus and whether AIDS is a distinct disease. Immune system breakdowns have also been observed in animals.

Higher Consciousness

Hagen expresses skepticism about "higher consciousness" in a culture that elected Ronald Reagan. She mentions the disbanding of The Farm in Tennessee and scandals involving gurus like Muktananda and Rejneesh. The Scientologists are facing lawsuits, and organizations like The Moonies and PTL continue to operate amidst financial and ethical issues. The Society of Emissaries continues quietly, while Werner Erhard works on reprogramming power structures.

Psychedelics and the Brain Police

Psychedelics are still in use, but enlightenment is elusive. Certain chemical substances found to enhance empathy and communication have been legislated against by Congress, leading to the "era of the Brain Police." Religious fundamentalism is on the rise, with some individuals seeking simplistic answers. The current political administration is perceived as unmotivated to solve crises, expecting a "rapture" and potentially favoring censorship of magazines.

UFOs

Gene Steinberg humorously advises readers to "feel for your wallet!" if they hear about UFOs. He discusses Zecharia Sitchin's "The Twelfth Planet" series, which posits human creation through genetic manipulation by "UFOnauts" for mineral mining. He notes the potential plausibility due to advances in biotechnology and historical attempts to control populations. The article mentions UFO sightings and theories, including electromagnetic fields affecting car engines and dreams, and Whitley Strieber's book "Communion."

Transcendental Acquisition

Channelling and weekend seminars for self-improvement are big business. However, Hagen finds the quality lacking since Jane Roberts (who channelled Seth) passed away. Ramtha's followers who moved to Oregon to await "Space Brothers" have mostly returned after the UFOnauts failed to appear on time. Ken Carey predicts a "Global Awakening."

The Harmonic Convergence and Climate

The Harmonic Convergence began on August 16, 1987, marking a transition in the Mayan calendar, with the new cosmic cycle expected by 2012. Hagen expresses concern about ecological collapse, the Greenhouse Effect, and drought, suggesting it might be preferable to an Ice Age.

Myself

Geneva Hagen has remarried and moved to Canada, living on a solar-powered homestead. She is coordinating efforts to end world hunger, emphasizing its role as a major cause of suffering and a prerequisite for social transformation. She believes that any attempt at social or spiritual growth that ignores hunger is misguided.

Mainstream Musings: The Extremists of High-End Audio by Gene Steinberg

Gene Steinberg contrasts the perceived strangeness of UFO buffs with the equally peculiar world of high-end audio enthusiasts. He traces the history of hi-fi from the 1950s, noting the evolution from bulky tube amplifiers and console systems to modern, compact components and the advent of CDs.

Audio's Lunatic Fringe

Steinberg describes a segment of "audiophiles" who reject CDs and rack systems, preferring obscure American or British "cottage industry" products. These enthusiasts, often featured in journals like Stereophile, are seen as parodies of 1950s audio equipment. They eschew receivers, preferring separate components: preamplifiers, amplifiers, and tuners. Transistors are criticized for producing a "harsh and grainy sound," with a preference for tube amplifiers or solid-state electronics with "tube-like" qualities. Exotic speakers, such as ribbon and electrostatic types, are also favored, despite their high cost and demanding placement requirements.

The Cable Debate

A significant point of contention is audio cables. While most consumers use inexpensive cables, high-enders spend upwards of $100 per foot on silver or oxygen-free copper cables, believing they significantly improve sound quality. Steinberg, along with mainstream audio magazines, finds no audible difference unless the cable is defective. He notes that dealers profit from these sales, and even discount stores now carry expensive cables.

High-End Tweaks and Costs

High-enders are also described as "tweakers," using accessories like stabilizer rings and damping rings to achieve "the absolute sound." Entering this world requires a substantial bank account.

The Gadfly of High-End Audio: Bob Carver

Bob Carver is presented as a disruptive force in the high-end audio scene. His company, with 300 employees, produces high-quality products at affordable prices, often challenging high-end shibboleths. Carver's "Magnetic Field Power Amplifier" is highlighted for its efficient power supply. He also developed the "Silver Seven" amplifier, a multi-chassis tube system costing $17,500, which he later challenged to replicate with a solid-state amplifier, the M4.0t, for under $800.

Carver also addressed the CD debate with his "Digital Time Lens" circuit, designed to make CDs sound more like vinyl records. His "Sonic Hologram" and "Asymmetrical Charge-Coupled FM Stereo Detector" circuits are also mentioned for enhancing stereo effects and FM reception. Carver's "Amazing Loudspeaker" is described as a ribbon speaker that offers spacious sound with strong bass, despite requiring significant amplifier power and careful placement.

Steinberg notes that Carver's products are generally reliable, a stark contrast to the finicky nature of some high-end equipment.

Culture Corner: A New UFO Magazine, Two TV Shows and Other Delights

This section reviews recent developments in the UFO and paranormal fields, including a new magazine, two television programs, and a book.

UFO Universe

Timothy Green Beckley's latest venture, "UFO Universe," is praised as the best newsstand publication on UFOs in a long time. Despite somewhat "splashy covers," the magazine offers a balanced approach, avoiding sensational "messages" and focusing on sightings and speculation. It targets a casual reader who may have been introduced to UFO lore through tabloids. The November 1988 issue featured an interview with Major Dewey Fournet, who revealed details about the ousting of Major Donald Keyhoe from NICAP. Another article by Mike Grosso discusses the symbolism behind alien abductions. The magazine is nationally distributed but lacks a large advertising budget.

UFO Cover-Up? Live and Who Murdered JFK?

Two television programs are reviewed: "UFO Cover-Up? Live," hosted by Mike Farrel, and "Who Murdered JFK?," hosted by Jack Anderson. The review compares their production quality and guest selection. "UFO Cover-Up? Live" is criticized for scripted interviews and awkwardness, though it touched upon "MJ-12" and abduction issues. "Who Murdered JFK?" is praised for Jack Anderson's professional delivery and its focus on a conspiracy involving CIA attempts on Fidel Castro and retaliation against JFK by organized crime. The review notes the role of Lee Harvey Oswald as a potential patsy and the convenient deaths of individuals connected to the assassination.

The JFK Assassination and UFOs Connection

The review draws parallels between the JFK assassination and UFO cover-up theories, citing government secrecy and motives for public ignorance. It mentions the involvement of Fred Crisman, a witness in the Maury Island UFO case, in the JFK assassination investigation, linking it to the controversial "Mr. Ed" photos and alleged military sources involved with "MJ-12."

Dancing in the Light by Shirley MacLaine

Geneva Hagen reviews Shirley MacLaine's book "Dancing in the Light," describing it as another chapter in her "spiritual quest." The book offers an intimate glimpse into MacLaine's life, including arguments with her parents and an affair with a film director. Hagen notes MacLaine's use of channelling and past-life regressions, guided by a channeller named Chris. Hagen expresses skepticism about "transcendental acquisition" and the high cost of seminars, suggesting that MacLaine's work, while entertaining and potentially valuable for future historians, may lead to a cult of materialism rather than genuine spirituality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Caveat Emptor maintains its characteristic stance of critically examining fringe topics, including UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and alternative spiritualities, while also engaging with political and social issues. The magazine encourages a skeptical yet open-minded approach, urging readers to question official narratives and explore diverse perspectives. There is a recurring theme of questioning authority, whether it be governmental conspiracies, the marketing of high-end products, or the claims of spiritual gurus. The editorial tone is often critical but also acknowledges the persistence and dedication of individuals within these fields, such as Tim Beckley and Bob Carver. The magazine appears to advocate for a more grounded and critical approach to understanding complex phenomena, urging readers to "wait and see" for more evidence before forming definitive conclusions, particularly in the realm of UFOs.

Title: Newswatch
Issue: Winter, 1988-89
Volume: Vol. 2, No. 4
Publisher: Caveat Emptor
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Newswatch delves into a variety of intriguing topics, from potential new fundamental forces of nature and the discovery of new planets to updates from the UFO research community and a look at scientific literacy.

The Six Forces of Nature

The lead article, "The Six Forces of Nature," explores recent scientific findings that challenge the long-held understanding of physics. It begins by referencing a Los Angeles Times science report about a study conducted at the Arctic icecap in Greenland, which suggested the existence of perhaps six fundamental laws of nature. Traditionally, science recognized gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces. However, the article highlights the observation of an apparent "fifth force" in 1986 by physicist Ephraim Fischbach of Purdue University. This force is described as working against gravity at distances of less than 600 feet.

Further complicating the picture, U.S. Air Force investigators researching gravity in North Carolina observed evidence of a "sixth force" in December of the previous year. This force is said to act over greater distances than the fifth force, ranging from 1.5% to 4% as strong as gravity and effective over distances from 1,600 to 5,500 feet. Tests conducted a mile below the polar icecap in Greenland have reportedly corroborated both theories. The practical implications of these discoveries, if confirmed, could necessitate a re-evaluation of the masses and ages of planets, stars, and the universe itself. Mark Ander of the Los Alamos National Laboratory is quoted expressing surprise at these findings.

New Evidence for the ETH?

This section examines the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (ETI) and the possibility of life on other planets. The conventional wisdom in UFO research posits that UFOs are sent by an intelligent race from another planet. However, explorations within our own solar system have yielded no evidence of such life. The article then discusses a report from the Associated Press on August 3, 1988, detailing the location of up to 10 possible planets orbiting distant stars. This study, conducted by U.S. and Canadian astronomers and presented to the International Astronomical Union, suggests that as many as half the stars in the Milky Way galaxy might host planets. Bruce Campbell, chief of the Canadian team, speculates that this could indicate the presence of Earth-like planets, though direct evidence is lacking.

The article notes that these planets were not directly observed but inferred through the phenomenon of "red shift." Scientists measured the shift in light from celestial objects to detect wobbles or movements caused by the gravitational pull of nearby celestial bodies, thus inferring the presence of planets. While acknowledging the vast distances involved, the author questions the leap in logic to suggest these planets as the source of the UFO phenomenon. The late UFO philosopher Ray Palmer is mentioned, who suggested that extraterrestrials might have their own UFO mysteries.

The Earth Revolves Around Where?

This brief segment highlights a surprising lack of scientific literacy among Americans. Citing a survey by Jon Miller of Northern Illinois University, sponsored by the National Science Foundation, it reveals that 21% of respondents believed the sun revolved around the Earth, contradicting the Copernican model established over 450 years prior. The survey, which included 75 science-related questions, also showed that only 45% of those who knew the Earth revolved around the sun could correctly state it took a year to complete the orbit. This widespread scientific illiteracy is linked to the perceived credibility of "scientific" UFO researchers.

Why ET Can't Phone Home

This section reports on the sudden collapse of the third largest radio telescope in the world, located in Green Bank, West Virginia, on November 15th. Scientists at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory are unable to explain why the 300-foot telescope suddenly fell apart. Berkeley professor Daniel Werthimer described it as a "world-class telescope." The article explains that radio telescopes, resembling oversized satellite dishes, scan the skies for intelligent radio signals. The range of the telescope was estimated at up to 10 billion light years, making it a crucial tool in the search for extraterrestrial life. The rebuilding timeline for the telescope remains uncertain, with Werthimer noting a general state of shock.

Convention Roundup: I Go to See the National UFO Conference

Written by Gene Steinberg, this article provides a personal account of attending the 25th annual National UFO Conference in Cleveland. Steinberg recalls attending a similar conference 24 years prior. He notes that the convention, which has moved locations over the years, has always had its home in Cleveland. The sponsors, however, seemed overwhelmed by the event's demands, and the article points out that such events are typically labor-intensive and not profitable.

The conference sessions were well-attended, with speakers addressing major controversies in modern UFO research. Dr. Willy Smith, a colleague of the late Dr. J. Allen Hynek, delivered a strong critique of the "Gulf Breeze" case, particularly focusing on the infamous "Mr. Ed" photos, which he argued were fakes. Smith mentioned working from copies and expressed frustration that Dr. Bruce Maccabee, who also analyzed the photos, had not provided him with the original pictures. Smith presented photos taken with a fixed-focus Polaroid camera, noting that objects photographed from a distance of five feet or more should be in focus, yet some pictures showed blurry trees in the distance while the UFO itself was relatively clear. The article concludes that while this doesn't prove the Gulf Breeze case is a fraud, it raises serious doubts.

John P. Timmerman of the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) gave an overview of the UFO enigma. Other speakers included James W. Moseley, Tim Beckley, Tom Benson, Ed Biebel, Lawrence Blazey, Richard Dell'Aquila, Antonio Huneeus, Ron Schaffner, and Charles Wilhelm. Tim Beckley received the "UFOlogist of the Year" award. The convention also honored Gray Barker, Dr. J. Allen Hynek, and Pete Mazzola on its "Honor Roll."

For many attendees, the conference was a social event, akin to a high school reunion, offering a chance to reconnect with old friends. The 1989 convention was scheduled to move to Phoenix, Arizona, with a preliminary list of speakers including Marge Christensen, Vicki Cooper, William Moore, Brad Steiger, and Traci Torme. Information on the 1989 MUFON convention was pending.

Editor's Note: The Three Laws of Reality

This section includes an editor's note by Curt Sutherly and Gene Steinberg, reflecting on their past attempt to write a book on UFOs and related mysteries in 1976. They explain that the project was abandoned because freelance writing proved precarious, and Steinberg became a newspaper reporter. Sutherly's contribution to the book project, a blurb titled "The Three Laws of Reality," is presented.

The first law states that anything conceivable within the existing universe will ultimately happen, albeit within a limited framework of perception. The second law posits that as a result of this, the framework of perception and belief must expand, allowing the physical concept of reality to expand and change. The third law asserts that this expansion and alteration of reality leads to a greater sequence of occurrences within the universe, reinforcing the first two laws and maintaining a cycle. The universe, according to Sutherly, is maintained through this process.

Classified Advertising

This section contains advertisements for selling Caveat Emptor magazine, seeking back issues, and placing classified ads. It also promotes a special offer for the book "Prophecies of the Presidents."

UFOs flown anywhere in the known universe...

This page showcases covers of past issues of UFO Magazine, highlighting various topics covered, such as "UFOs in the News," "The New Science and Metaphysics," "Alien Abductions," "UFOs on Television," and "UFO Dreamtime." It also includes subscription and single-issue order information for the magazine.

FREE SUBSCRIPTIONS - THE WORLD'S MOST UNUSUAL PUBLICATIONS

This advertisement offers free subscriptions to "UFO REVIEW" and "INNER LIGHT" publications for $1.00 to cover postage and handling. "UFO REVIEW" is described as a flying saucer newspaper with authentic encounters and "Top-Secret" information. "INNER LIGHT" covers topics like life after death, Nostradamus, miracles, and channeled messages. A special offer for the book "Prophecies of the Presidents" is also featured.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of science, unexplained phenomena, and the fringes of human knowledge. There's a clear interest in challenging established scientific paradigms, as seen in the articles on new forces of nature and the search for extraterrestrial life. The coverage of UFO conferences and research suggests an editorial stance that is open to, and actively investigates, unconventional theories and evidence, while also maintaining a critical eye, as demonstrated by the scrutiny of the Gulf Breeze case and the discussion of scientific literacy. The magazine appears to advocate for a broader understanding of reality and the universe, encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom.