Caveat Emptor - vol 4 no 5

Magazine Overview

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: No. 19 (Vol. 4, No. 5)
Date: Fall 1989
Publisher: Cross-Country Communications
Price: $3.00

Caveat Emptor is presented as a "New Age Journal" that aims to explore controversial topics, particularly in the realm of UFOs and unexplained phenomena. This issue marks the completion of its first year of publication since its revival.

Editor's Letter: The Word Is Out!

Gene Steinberg, the editor, reflects on the revival of Caveat Emptor after a 15-year hiatus. He recounts the uncertainty surrounding the magazine's return and expresses amazement at the strong positive reaction from readers, many of whom remembered the publication fondly. He shares several letters from readers who welcome the magazine's return, praising its quality and the need for a publication that doesn't blindly accept every story. Steinberg notes that original writers have returned with new perspectives and findings, promising that Caveat Emptor will continue to explore the changing UFO field and the strange and unknown.

Feature Articles

The Caveat Emptor Interview: Peter Kor (Part I)

This interview with controversial UFO writer Peter Kor, conducted by Gene Steinberg, delves into Kor's questioning of conventional wisdom regarding flying saucers and explores the origins of his thinking.

The People Who Hunt Sasquatch

Written by Michael R. Dennett, this article examines the internal conflicts and debates among those who search for the Abominable Snowman, drawing parallels to similar heated discussions within the UFO field.

The Ego Corner: Magic In Our Time

Authored by Geneva Hagen, this piece is described as not being about spells, but rather about the "spelling" of words, suggesting a focus on language or perhaps a metaphorical interpretation of magic.

Stealth Aircraft and Detection Technology: A Report

Curt Sutherly, the magazine's aviation expert, investigates Uncle Sam's latest inventions, considering whether some of these advanced aircraft might be mistaken for UFOs.

I Go to See the MUFON Symposium

James W. Moseley, editor of "Saucer Smear," recounts his experiences at the MUFON Symposium held in Las Vegas, suggesting he encountered more than he bargained for beyond the gaming tables.

Departments

Editorial: 42 Years of Alien Technology

In his editorial, Gene Steinberg questions the premise that the US government has possessed alien technology since the 1947 Roswell crash. He argues that if such advanced technology had been available for over four decades, there should be tangible evidence of its integration into military or commercial applications. Steinberg suggests that scientific progress, particularly in electronics with the advent of the transistor and integrated circuits, has been a natural, evolutionary process driven by human ingenuity rather than alien influence. He also touches upon the idea that extraterrestrial messages often focus on spiritual and ecological concerns rather than technological advancement. He concludes by urging readers to think logically about the claims.

Reader's Forum

This section features letters from readers. Dennis Stacy, editor of the MUFON UFO Journal, comments on the magazine's portrayal of MUFON, corrects its street address, and suggests that specific details about UFO figures would be more helpful for readers. He also expresses appreciation for the issue. Bob Renaud reflects on the lessons learned over time, emphasizing the need for a balance between right and left ideologies. D. Scott Rogo provides information on the neurological basis for olfactory hallucinations, specifically the "burning wood" odor experienced by the editor. Terry Griffin expresses a strong desire to obtain a complete back issue set of Caveat Emptor. A letter from an unnamed individual discusses the difficulty of obtaining back issues and proposes a "Book of Caveat Emptor" project if there is sufficient interest. Ed Walters defends the Gulf Breeze UFO photos, challenging critics' arguments. Stephen E. Franklin, a professional photographer, explains that virtually any camera can be used to fake double exposures, casting doubt on arguments based solely on camera capabilities. He praises the magazine's editorial attitude.

Culture Corner

This section highlights Whitley Streiber's presence at the New York Fortean Society and other related cultural events.

Newswatch

This segment covers recent UFO sightings, Martian mysteries, and the ongoing "Gulf Breeze furor."

Other Content

Advertising Rates: The magazine provides a rate card for various advertising placements, from back cover to classified ads, with notes on copy requirements and payment.

Subscription Information: Details are provided for subscribing to Caveat Emptor, including rates for single copies, one-year, and two-year subscriptions, with additional charges for foreign subscribers.

Publication Information: Caveat Emptor is published quarterly by Cross-Country Communications, with contact details and subscription rates clearly listed. It also includes a disclaimer regarding unsolicited manuscripts.

• Advertisements for Other Publications:
• Artifex: A journal for Jungian investigations into anomalous phenomena, complementary medicine, cyberbiology, and symbolic manifestations of the spirit of our times.
• Archaeus: The Archaeus Project Annual, featuring well-documented articles on scientific and humanistic topics, including parapsychology, dowsing, and Jungian interpretations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, cryptozoology (Sasquatch), the nature of evidence, and the intersection of technology and the unexplained. The editorial stance, particularly from Gene Steinberg, is one of critical inquiry and a demand for logical reasoning, even when discussing extraordinary claims. There is a clear skepticism towards government cover-ups regarding alien technology and a preference for natural explanations for scientific advancements. The magazine also embraces a "New Age" perspective, exploring consciousness, the interconnectedness of life (Gaia), and spiritual messages from supposed extraterrestrials, while maintaining a critical eye on the potential for deception or misinterpretation.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Fall 1989, presents the first part of an interview with Peter Kor, a pseudonym for Tom Comella, a long-time UFO researcher with unconventional views. The magazine also features an article titled "The People Who Hunt Sasquatch" by Michael R. Dennett.

The Caveat Emptor Interview: Peter Kor (Part I)

Introduction

The introduction by Gene Steinberg highlights Peter Kor's unique perspective on UFO research, noting that he has been involved since the beginning but offers views that are far from conventional. Kor, previously unknown, wrote a column called "From the Critic's Corner" in Ray Palmer's Flying Saucers magazine, presenting arguments against UFO reality. Despite initial skepticism from readers and Palmer, Kor's sharp, logical, and scientific mind became apparent. He didn't oppose UFO reality but viewed the enigma from a new, broader perspective.

It was later revealed that Peter Kor was Tom Comella, a known pro-UFO advocate who had previously withdrawn from active research. The interview aims to explore Comella's reasons for leaving the field and returning as Kor, offering his thought-provoking perspective on the UFO mystery. Steinberg omits usual biographical information, describing Kor as pleasant and engaging, with a gentle sense of humor, and notes his past publications like "Kor's Kosmos."

Credentialism vs. Performance

The interview begins with Kor expressing his disdain for "credentialism." He argues that degrees and affiliations are irrelevant; what matters is a person's performance, reasoning, and ability to prove their points. He contrasts this with the common practice of leading with credentials, which he finds unhelpful.

Early Interest in UFOs

Kor recounts his initial interest in UFOs starting in 1946 when he was nine years old. Reports of "ghost rockets" over Sweden, combined with his existing interest in astronomy, naturally drew him to the subject. He also mentions the Ken Arnold sighting and the Mantell case in 1948 as significant events that propelled the topic forward.

Involvement and Early Publications

By age 12, Kor was actively involved, reading, connecting with others, and running up phone bills to discuss the subject. He became part of a network of like-minded individuals and eventually started his own publication, "Flying Saucer News Service Research Bulletin." This led him to correspond with prominent figures in the field.

Embracing the ETH and Shifting Perspectives

Initially, Kor embraced the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) but always as something to be explained, not as an article of faith. His motivation was comprehension. However, he discovered that many in the field had different motivations. Around 1960, Comella withdrew from active research because he had uncovered truths that radically contradicted conventional wisdom. He felt that if he were to write about the subject again, it needed to be from a completely new perspective, detached from his previous identity as Tom Comella, to allow the ideas to stand on their own merits.

The Peter Kor Persona and Ray Palmer

Kor explains that the "Peter Kor" persona and the "From the Critic's Corner" column emerged in Ray Palmer's "Flying Saucers" magazine. He chose Palmer because, at the time, Palmer was perceived as knowing the most about flying saucers and offered a "free market of ideas" in his publications, allowing diverse viewpoints without editing. Kor had previously written columns for Palmer's other magazines.

The Nature of UFO Evidence and Contamination

Kor discusses the nature of UFO evidence and the problem of contamination. He believes that if specific "facts" about UFOs or contactees become widely known, people might intentionally or unintentionally incorporate them into their own narratives, making it difficult to distinguish truth from fiction. He uses the example of a hypothetical "strange birth mark" on contactees.

Motivations in UFO Research

Kor asserts that his motivation for writing is radically different from most people in the field. He believes many have other agendas, such as seeking a career, socializing, or fulfilling psychological needs for belief. He does not share these motivations and dips into UFO research only when appropriate for his specific purposes, writing only when he has something significant to say for a particular reason.

Personal Experiences and Contactees

Kor clarifies that his viewpoint is based on both personal experiences and research. He has been present during alleged contactee experiences and even witnessed contactees faking them. He emphasizes that while these experiences are crucial to his understanding, they do not, by themselves, explain flying saucers. He states that he has never met a contactee who was a "real" contactee, suggesting that the phenomena might be psychological or influenced by belief and expectation.

Bridging the Camps: Scientific UFOlogists vs. Contactees

Kor explains that he bridged the gap between "scientific UFOlogists" (who focused on sightings and radar data) and "contactees" (who believed in close encounters). He saw this distinction as more a function of researcher psychology than reality. He observed that scientific UFOlogists lacked proof of extraordinary phenomena, while contactees had extraordinary stories but no verifiable evidence.

The Greenhouse Incident

Kor recounts an incident where people believed a flying saucer had landed. He investigated and found it was a greenhouse with an eerie green glow, apparently used by a farmer for plants. This illustrates how strong beliefs and expectations can lead people to misinterpret events.

The Obsolete Question: "What are flying saucers?"

Kor believes the question "What are flying saucers?" is obsolete. He argues that the focus should be on "Why are flying saucers?" He sees a cyclic pattern in UFOlogy, where breakthroughs are anticipated but ultimately lead to disillusionment. However, he notes a progression, such as the shift from sightings to the abduction phenomenon.

The Symbiotic Relationship and Lack of Evidence

Kor highlights the "symbiotic relationship" between the phenomenon and researchers. He points to the MJ-12 documents as an example, noting the persistent lack of tangible evidence in the saucer field, which he finds remarkable and expects to remain absent. He questions the incongruity of believers thinking the government knows the truth but can't control the saucers, suggesting that if the government were collaborating with aliens, it could impact the evidence.

The MJ-12 Documents and Government Conspiracy

Kor views the MJ-12 documents as proposing an answer to the incongruity by suggesting government contact and collaboration with aliens. He believes this is part of the ongoing symbiotic relationship where events answer researchers' questions. He emphasizes that he is not implying anything supernatural but rather a predictable pattern.

The Reflexive Aspect vs. Symbiotic Relationship

Kor distinguishes his concept of a "symbiotic relationship" from Brad Steiger's "reflexive aspect." Kor believes his concept is understandable and not mystical, suggesting that some people in the field dislike the idea of the mystery being solved because it serves their psychological or other agendas.

The Nature of the Phenomenon

Kor reiterates that his "symbiotic relationship" refers to the interaction between researchers and events, not a mystical force. He believes that understanding this relationship allows for prediction. He also states that many people in the field are not looking for solutions but are driven by other reasons.

The MJ-12 Documents as Hoax or Misdirection

Regarding the MJ-12 documents, Kor states that even if they are not hoaxes, they are not the solution to the saucer mystery. He is amazed that people are so easily taken in by such revelations, having seen similar patterns repeat over decades. He believes there will not be a grand announcement or definitive proof of extraterrestrials. He criticizes those who come forward with partial information, calling it "half-way stuff" and a joke unworthy of serious consideration.

The People Who Hunt Sasquatch

Introduction to Sasquatch Researchers

This article by Michael R. Dennett introduces various personalities involved in the search for Sasquatch. Dennett recounts meeting Rant Mullens, who claimed to have started the Bigfoot legend by carving giant wooden feet and making tracks. Mullens' story, though difficult to verify, conveyed strong emotions about missed opportunities and the end of a journey.

A Querulous Fellowship

Dennett describes the community of Sasquatch advocates as a fellowship that is both binding and antagonizing, characterized by internal disagreements. He has interviewed many key figures in the field.

Grover Krantz and René Dahinden

A significant point of contention is the relationship between Grover Krantz, a WSU professor and Bigfoot advocate, and René Dahinden, a veteran researcher. Krantz has refused to participate in events with Dahinden, whom he dismisses as a "mental case" without academic credentials. Krantz believes that once Bigfoot is found, scientists like himself will take over, marginalizing Dahinden. Krantz has also suggested a "shoot to kill" policy for Sasquatch, advocating for the amputation of hands and heads for easier removal, a policy opposed by many other researchers.

Other Researchers and Disagreements

Other researchers like Peter Brine, Archie Buckley, Datus Perry, and Bob Gimlin object to Krantz's approach. Vito Quaranta, a newer researcher, has provided Krantz with data but received little in return. Will Jevning, who worked on a Sasquatch exhibit, has also broken with Krantz due to disagreements. Cliff Crook, another researcher, is critical of Krantz's approach, particularly his reliance on Paul Freeman's evidence.

Paul Freeman and Dubious Evidence

Paul Freeman, a tracker, has presented significant evidence for Bigfoot, but his claims are often viewed as dubious, especially since he admitted to faking Bigfoot tracks. Dahinden considers Freeman's 1982 footprint evidence "100% fake," and Bob Titmus also finds Freeman not credible. Vance Orchard, a journalist, defends Freeman as a reliable tracker.

Warren Thompson and Jon Erik Beckjord

Warren Thompson is noted for his extensive collection of Sasquatch documents, which he makes available to others without offering opinions. In contrast, Jon Erik Beckjord, sometimes called "Beckjerk," has alienated many in the Bigfoot community. The International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC) has refused him membership due to his active involvement. Beckjord claims to have photographed both Sasquatch and the Loch Ness Monster and believes the creature is an inter-dimensional or paranormal phenomenon. His conflict with the ISC led to his arrest on charges of "harassment and coercion" related to alleged threatening letters.

The International Society of Cryptozoology (ISC)

Dahinden refers to the ISC as the "Black Hole Society" due to its perceived ineffectiveness. The ISC published reports on possible mermaid sightings that turned out to be misidentified fish, and a purported Yeti photograph that was later identified as a rock. Editor J. Richard Greenwell claims Dahinden has an "ax to grind."

Personal Encounters and Frustrations

Dennett shares a personal experience where Wes Summerlin threatened him for expressing skepticism about Bigfoot. He notes that while camaraderie exists, frustration is common. Mullens lamented never making money from Bigfoot, while Bob Titmus lost earnings, his wife, and his health. Dahinden resents the profits made by movie producers. Krantz has also suffered reputational and academic setbacks.

Reluctance to Shoot Sasquatch

Despite Krantz's "shoot to kill" policy, researchers like Bob Gimlin, Dahinden, Peter Byrne, Datus Perry, and others express a reluctance to shoot a Sasquatch, describing it as "too human."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the complexities and controversies within paranormal research, particularly UFOlogy and cryptozoology. The editorial stance appears to favor critical analysis and skepticism, as exemplified by Peter Kor's interview and Michael R. Dennett's examination of the Sasquatch research community. Both pieces highlight the importance of rigorous methodology, the dangers of confirmation bias, and the often-unclear motivations of researchers. The "Caveat Emptor" (Let the buyer beware) title itself suggests a cautious approach to extraordinary claims. The recurring theme is the need to question assumptions, scrutinize evidence, and understand the psychological and social dynamics at play in these fields, rather than accepting claims at face value.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Fall 1989, features a prominent article on "Stealth Aircraft and Detection Technology: A Report" by Curt Sutherly, alongside a report on the MUFON Symposium by James W. Moseley. The magazine also includes articles on the influence of language, secret societies, and specific UFO cases.

Stealth Aircraft and Detection Technology: A Report

Curt Sutherly's report details the capabilities and development of advanced U.S. military aircraft, focusing on stealth technology. The SR-71 Blackbird is highlighted as the fastest and highest-flying production aircraft, capable of Mach 3 speeds and significant reconnaissance. The article notes its potential to be mistaken for UFOs due to its performance. The SR-71's operational history, including its speed and altitude records, is presented. Despite its capabilities, the Air Force announced plans to mothball the SR-71 fleet, citing budget restraints and the capabilities of spy satellites, though some suspect a few may remain in service.

The report then introduces the supersecret "Stealth" fighter, the F-117A, which has been in operation since the early 1980s. Developed by Lockheed's "Skunk Works," the F-117A utilizes "faceting" and radar-absorbent materials to minimize its radar signature. It was initially flown only at night at extremely low altitudes, leading to the loss of three aircraft and two pilots due to crashes. The article mentions that fatigue and disorientation were cited as factors in the pilots' deaths.

The B-2 "Stealth" bomber, unveiled in November 1988, is also discussed. Built by Northrop, it features a flying wing design similar to earlier prototypes. The B-2 is powered by four non-afterburning engines and has a large wingspan. Its development involved significant investment, and it is expected to be assigned to Whiteman AFB. Reports of sightings prior to its official unveiling are mentioned, including claims from Wytheville, Virginia.

Advanced tracking systems are being developed at Rome Air Development Center to counter stealth aircraft. These systems use computers to analyze background "noise" from radar and infrared sources to identify potential targets. The article notes that this technology is a high priority due to the existence of stealth aircraft in the U.S. and similar developments by the Soviets.

The issue also touches upon the development of the Advanced Technology Fighter (ATF), a program competing for a $7 billion contract. Prototypes like the Lockheed YF-22A and Northrop YF-23A are expected to fly soon, with the ATF aiming for unprecedented power, supersonic cruise capability, and low observability. The article mentions the exploration of self-repairing flight control systems and new lightweight engines for future ATFs.

Finally, the report connects advanced aviation technology with UFO crash/retrieval accounts, noting that Wright-Patterson AFB plays a central role in many such claims. It suggests that aviation technology is rapidly advancing and potentially paving the way for space exploration.

Language, Power, and Secret Societies

An extended piece explores the multifaceted role of language. It begins by discussing how language shapes cultural reality and how words can be manipulated to serve political or social agendas, citing examples from historical events and modern terminology. The article argues that formal logic, while influential in Western civilization, is a narrow system of thought. It highlights how Latin's structure facilitated logical manipulation, while English, particularly its Anglo-Saxon roots, carries connotations of rebellion. The piece also touches upon the historical use of language suppression as a tool of oppression and the co-option of language by power structures.

The article then shifts to the mystification of knowledge, particularly in the realms of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. It explains how these disciplines, initially practical, became associated with magic and were preserved by secret societies. Freemasonry is presented as an example, originating from societies of stonemasons and playing a role in historical power struggles. The author suggests that while ancient secret societies may have had a sense of stewardship, modern professions like science, education, government, medicine, law, the military, and big business operate as exclusive groups that guard their information and power jealously.

The piece criticizes various institutions, including businessmen, politicians, scientists involved in weapons development, the legal system, and the educational system, for their perceived failures and moral compromises. It suggests that these institutions should function more like secret societies, with greater accountability, perhaps through ritualistic initiations and oaths.

The article concludes this section by briefly mentioning the role of Shamans in contemporary society, often embodied by actors and rock stars, who influence public consciousness, sometimes unaware of their responsibility.

MUFON Symposium Report

James W. Moseley recounts his experience at the MUFON Symposium, detailing personal inconveniences like lost luggage and the unexpected departure of controversial UFO figure John Lear. He also discusses William Moore's speech, which reportedly damaged his credibility. Moore confessed to being an unpaid double agent for the government, exchanging information for access to government data on UFOs, particularly concerning Paul Bennewitz's investigations at Kirkland Air Force Base.

Moseley notes that Moore's informants were given bird codenames, including "Falcon," "Condor," and "Sparrow." The report also mentions Richard Doty, identified as "Falcon." The controversy surrounding Moore's role and the Hastings article published in MUFON UFO Journal is highlighted.

John Lear, after his own presentation, officially resigned from the UFO field, making accusations about government financing of UFO research through illegal drugs and claiming the government holds captured spaceships and alien bodies at bases like Wright-Patterson and Homestead. Lear also alleged that secret treaties were made with alien groups and that human beings have been mutilated by aliens.

Other speakers at the symposium included John Brandenburg, who discussed the "faces" on Mars, and notable figures like Don Berliner, Timothy Good, Linda Howe, Donald Johnson, and Jacques Vallee.

Other Mentions

James DeMeo, a Reichian scientist, claims to have ended drought conditions using "cloudbusting" techniques and suggests that drought may be a root cause of patriarchy. Eduard Meier, a Swiss contactee, claims to have translated an ancient Aramaic document called the Talmud Jmmanuel, which offers a new perspective on the New Testament and UFO material.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of hidden knowledge, government secrecy, advanced technology (particularly military), and the manipulation of information. There is a critical stance towards established institutions and a focus on unconventional explanations for phenomena, including UFOs and societal issues. The editorial stance appears to favor investigative journalism that questions official narratives and delves into esoteric and fringe topics.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Fall 1989, features a cover story on Whitley Strieber's lecture at John Keel's New York Fortean Society. The magazine delves into Strieber's experiences with 'visitors,' his books 'Communion' and 'Transformation,' and the establishment of his Communion Foundation. The issue also includes reviews of books on paranormal and scientific topics, reports on UFO sightings, and discussions on environmental issues.

Whitley Strieber Speaks Out

The lead article details a lecture given by Whitley Strieber at the John Keel's New York Fortean Society on May 20, 1989. The author, initially hesitant to review a lecture, found the event significant enough to warrant coverage. Strieber, known for his novels and his best-selling book 'Communion,' discussed his lifetime of experiences with 'the visitors.' He appeared somewhat nervous but spoke informally with a gentle, self-deprecating humor and a slight Texan accent. Strieber mentioned a new book and a motion picture based on 'Communion' starring Christopher Walken. He also discussed the Communion Foundation, funded by his book royalties, which aims to study the visitor experience and assist abductees. The foundation plans to offer MRI scans to detect alleged implants and is building a database of abduction accounts. Strieber's talk was noted for its focus on the 'nature of the visitor experience,' distinguishing it from typical UFO research gatherings. The article also touches upon Strieber's awareness of historical UFO precedents and his ongoing encounters, which have taken new turns, including reports of 'men in black.' He also shared an experience of seeing a 'sylph' with his son. Strieber contemplates the possibility of time travelers as an alternative explanation for the phenomena.

Parallel Universes: The Search For Other Worlds

This section reviews Fred Alan Wolf's book 'Parallel Universes.' The reviewer discusses personal 'phantom shopping mall' dreams as a potential entry point into the concept of parallel realities. The book is described as exploring contemporary physics, the nature of consciousness, and the idea that imagined facts could have reality in co-existing parallel universes. Wolf's work is noted for its accessible explanations of complex concepts using analogies and references to popular culture. The review highlights topics such as the wave-particle duality, black holes, the fourth dimension, the 'big bang' theory, and the observer's role in quantum reality. The reviewer suggests that attempts to deny parallel universes often inadvertently affirm them. The book is recommended for its 'explosion of wonderful new insights into modern-day science.'

The Fellowship

This review covers Brad Steiger's book 'The Fellowship,' subtitled 'spiritual contact between humans and outer space beings.' The book is described as a rundown of contactee messages, which are noted for being repetitive. Steiger's speculation about 'Star-woman' Semjase and the resurgence of the 'Great Mother archetype' is discussed, along with the idea that cosmic forces can be projected with male or female principles. The review questions the equivalence of cosmic forces to male/female principles but acknowledges the potential for projection. Steiger's speculation about 'bug-eyed monsters' representing a need to confront a fearful sentinel is mentioned. A critical point is raised about 'UFOnauts' claiming to be missionaries, drawing a parallel to the disastrous consequences of missionary visits to primitive societies. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the motivation of those promoting a 'spiritual hierarchy' and 'Great White Brotherhood.' The book also references a contactee who starved herself to death on instructions from a 'Space Being.'

The New Inquisition

This review discusses Robert Anton Wilson's book 'The New Inquisition.' Wilson is presented as challenging the scientific establishment and CSICOP, arguing that skepticism can be as unthinking as blind belief. The book is described as containing fascinating tidbits from science and accounts of Fortean phenomena, serving as a plea for open-mindedness and a handbook on metaprogramming. The review notes Wilson's concluding sentence about the differing fates of scientists like Reich and Leary versus Teller, and wishes for more information on the economic reasons behind these disparities.

Sex and Drugs

This section reviews Robert Anton Wilson's controversial book 'Sex and Drugs.' The book addresses the use of taboo practices for altered states of consciousness, offering scientific information, historical anecdotes (like George Washington's use of marijuana), and 'rousing good stories.' The reviewer notes Wilson's updated preface, which humorously compares the effects of cocaine to other methods and warns about the risks of casual sex in the age of AIDS. The book is recommended for its unique information.

Angel Tech

This review covers Antero Alli's book 'Angel Tech: A Modern Shaman's Guide to Reality Selection.' The book utilizes Timothy Leary's model of eight neurological circuits to provide instruction on recognizing and tuning into different levels of consciousness. It offers guidelines for distinguishing between Astral and Physical plane consciousness and includes information on astrology and ritual. The reviewer finds the illustrations 'wonderfully comical,' particularly a parody of the 'Devil' Tarot card. The book is described as esoteric but highly entertaining, recommended for aspiring shamans or fans of Tim Leary.

Newswatch: More UFO sightings, the Martian mysteries and a question of degree

This section reports on a wave of UFO sightings beginning in February 1989, particularly in Fyffe, Alabama, where police chief and assistant chief observed a large 'pale object.' The sightings attracted curiosity-seekers. Reports from Gulf Breeze, Florida, mention a 'Mr. Ed' Walters case and sightings by Kimberly Stevenson, Joe and Lynn Soley. Incidents in Long Island, New York, include Harriet Joffee seeing a sphere of light and a fishing boat captain reporting radar failure due to a mysterious beam. A disturbance in Southampton involved a loud noise and a 30-foot-wide object. The section also notes rumored drug trafficking activity over Long Island potentially contributing to some reports. Other reported sightings occurred in Colorado, South Dakota, and Connecticut. The article concludes by asserting that despite pronouncements of the phenomenon's demise, reports continue to emerge.

Martian Mystery Strikes Again

This brief report mentions a CBS-TV Journal Diary segment about a Soviet space probe to Mars that revealed mysterious findings before vanishing. Anomalies included a network of straight lines about the equator, estimated to be three to four kilometers wide, and an oblong shadow suggesting a huge object. The last photo, not released to the press, reportedly showed 'something that shouldn't have been there.' The author speculates that this information will likely not be followed up.

A Matter of Degree

This article discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the Gulf Breeze sightings and raises questions about the academic credentials of Dr. Willy Smith, a critic of the sightings. A press release from Robert E. Reid questions Smith's claim of a Ph.D. in physics, citing university records that indicate degrees in nuclear and mechanical engineering. Smith reportedly refused to directly address the credential issue, instead claiming to have computer enhancements proving the Gulf Breeze photos are fakes. The article also mentions a confusing dialogue about alleged fake photos of a UFO over New York's Chrysler Building, which Smith allegedly used to cast doubt on the Gulf Breeze pictures. The conflicting accounts from researchers Antonio Huneeus and Manuel Fernandez regarding the Chrysler Building photo are detailed, with Fernandez stating he made the photo at Smith's request and does not want to be associated with him.

Fighting the Greenhouse Effect With Greenery

This article addresses the threat of climate change and the 'greenhouse effect.' It highlights the 'Global ReLeaf' campaign, a U.S. initiative backed by the American Forestry Association, aiming to plant 100 million trees by 1992 to counter rising carbon dioxide levels. The article explains the process of photosynthesis and how trees absorb carbon dioxide. Norman Lacasse, a cooperative forestry supervisor, emphasizes the importance of planting trees and caring for existing forests. The campaign is presented as a way to buy time and potentially stabilize environmental heating.

Not Just Another Convention

This section announces the 26th annual National UFO Conference, now rebranded as the National UFO & New Age Conference, scheduled for September 15-17, 1989, in Phoenix, Arizona. Organized by Tim Beckley and Jim Speiser, the event features lectures and workshops by various speakers, including Whitley Strieber, Budd Hopkins, and Brad Steiger. Caveat Emptor editor Gene Steinberg is slated to be the Saturday night MC. Admission is $50 for the convention sessions, with additional costs for the banquet and workshops.

Rare Back Issues?

This advertisement offers back issues of Caveat Emptor from Winter 1988/89, Spring 1989, and Summer 1989, featuring articles on James W. Moseley, Brad Steiger, Gulf Breeze, MJ-12, and other UFO-related topics.

UFO Newsclipping Service

This advertisement promotes the UFO Newsclipping Service, a monthly report providing information on UFO activity worldwide, including photographic cases, occupant encounters, and 'Fortean' clippings.

Explore The Unknown!

This announcement details the regular meetings and lectures of John A. Keel's NY Fortean Society, offering membership information and a newsletter.

George D. Fawcett's Recommended UFO Enlarged Listings

This advertisement offers a 10-page listing of UFO resources for $5.00.

Classified Advertising

• This section contains various classified ads, including:
• A UFO Conference in North Haven, Connecticut, featuring speakers like Whitley Strieber, Walter Andrus, and John Keel.
• An offer for reports on UFOs, dangers, detection, propulsion designs, and levitation.
• A subscription offer for 'Flying Saucer Digest,' a quarterly journal.
• A book advertisement for 'The Night Mutilators' by Gene Duplantier.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Caveat Emptor revolve around UFO phenomena, abduction experiences, and the exploration of the paranormal and unexplained. The magazine appears to maintain an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting various viewpoints and investigative reports. There is a consistent interest in the work of figures like Whitley Strieber and John Keel, as well as a focus on debunking or scrutinizing claims, as seen in the review of Dr. Willy Smith's credentials and the discussion of 'fake' UFO photos. The editorial stance encourages critical thinking and open-mindedness, as exemplified by the review of Robert Anton Wilson's work and the plea for tolerance in the face of skepticism. The magazine also touches upon broader societal and environmental issues, such as the greenhouse effect, suggesting an interest in how paranormal phenomena intersect with contemporary concerns. The inclusion of book reviews and conference announcements indicates an effort to keep readers informed about developments in the UFO and Fortean fields.