Caveat Emptor - vol 5 no 1

Magazine Overview

Title: Caveat Emptor
Issue: No. 20 (Vol. 5, No. 1)
Date: Winter 1989-90
Publisher: Cross-Country Communications
Type: A New Age Journal

Editorial: Back Where We Once Belonged

Gene Steinberg, the editor, reflects on the revival of Caveat Emptor after a 15-year hiatus. He notes the magazine's unique place in the minds of its readers and the overwhelming positive response to its return. Steinberg emphasizes that the core reason for the lack of progress in UFO research is the failure to ask the right questions. He revisits his 1971 editorial, which criticized the lack of progress and the frustration of some researchers. Steinberg recounts his early fascination with flying saucers in the 1950s, initially assuming they were alien visitors. However, his studies led him to question this theory, finding it developed without sufficient evidence, relying heavily on eyewitness testimony and questionable photographs. He critiques the common assumption that UFOs must be alien spaceships simply because no earthly aircraft could perform similar maneuvers.

Steinberg discusses the implications of a potential alien visitation, noting the vastness of the phenomenon and the lack of concrete evidence. He touches upon theories like time travelers and parallel universes but ultimately questions the assumption that UFOs are physical craft. He suggests that subconscious minds might be generating these experiences, fulfilling a spiritual longing. He also acknowledges the possibility of government disinformation campaigns, possibly to cover up secret weapons testing.

He concludes by stating his interest in any mystery that remains unsolved and expresses a desire for colleagues in the field to be more open about their research. He encourages readers to consider Peter Kor's self-appraisal in the interview within the issue to help formulate better questions.

Feature Articles

• THE CAVEAT EMPTOR INTERVIEW: PETER KOR (Part II) (Page 11) By Gene Steinberg. This interview explores Peter Kor's views on whether the U.S. government is promoting a pro-saucer conspiracy. Kor attempts to answer this question.

• THE EGO CORNER: BLACK MAGIC (Page 16) By Geneva Hagen. This article discusses various forms of "Black Magic" in the world, noting that not all of it is performed by magicians.

• GREAT BIRDS OF THE ALLEGHENY PLATEAU (Page 21) By Curt Sutherly. This piece presents evidence for the existence of strange flying creatures, suggesting they are more than just figments of nightmares.

• DEMIGODS OF OUR TIME (Page 25) By Craig Della Penna. The article questions whether aliens are among us and suggests that beings worshipped as gods might not originate from spacecraft.

• I GO TO SEE THE NATIONAL UFO (AND NEW AGE) CONFERENCE (Page 28) By Gene Steinberg. This article offers a perspective on UFO conventions, suggesting they are more than just lectures and are places where interesting events unfold.

Departments

• EDITORIAL (Page 2) Gene Steinberg's editorial, where he expresses his views.

• READER'S FORUM (Page 5) A section for readers to voice their opinions and critiques.

• CULTURE CORNER (Page 32)

• NEWSWATCH (Page 35)

Readers' Forum

This section features letters from readers, including:

• NAIVE? (Page 7) A letter from a scientist who finds Steinberg's editorial "incredibly naive and unrealistic" regarding technology development and the ability to keep secrets. The writer argues that alien technology would be vastly superior and incomprehensible, citing the Roswell incident and the FBI memo as evidence of a cover-up. They suggest that progress in technology comes from different approaches and that understanding advanced alien craft is beyond current human capabilities.

• STANTON FRIEDMAN, ED WALTERS, PLEASE COPY (Page 8) A letter from Christopher D. Allan, who questions Bill Moore's role in Ufology and critiques Wilbert B. Smith's claims regarding MJ-12 and Vannevar Bush. Allan suggests Smith was not a serious Ufologist and that his "TOP SECRET" memo was the basis for the MJ-12 forgery. The letter also raises questions about the Gulf Breeze sightings and photos, asking for details about witnesses and the identity of "Believer Bill."

• MOORE LETTERS (Page 8) A letter from William L. Moore addressing inaccuracies in a previous article by Jim Moseley. Moore clarifies his role in the Paul Bennewitz case, stating he was contacted by the government and provided information, rather than working for them. He also disputes claims about Bennewitz's radio signals and photos.

• MECHANICAL FLYING MACHINES? (Page 9) A letter from John Shimwell, who thanks Steinberg for his "sweet voice of reason" but questions the assumption that all extraterrestrials arrive in mechanical flying machines. Shimwell suggests that alien technology might depend on principles unknown to science and that ETs may be urging humanity to achieve planetary harmony before interstellar travel.

• ACADEMIC FLATHEADS (Page 10) A letter from Bob Mosley, who encourages the magazine to explore speculative areas. He also discusses the difference between science fiction fans and UFO fans, noting that some in the sci-fi community are skeptical of UFO buffs due to their perceived lack of rigorous research.

• ACADEMIC FLATHEADS (Page 10) A letter from a reader who criticizes Peter Kor's statement about the "complete lack of tangible evidence" for UFOs, arguing that those who refuse to believe will always find a way to dismiss evidence. The writer suggests that real experts are those who have been contacted or abducted, and mentions William Cooper's theories about government interest in abductees for possible implants.

• WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD IT WOULD BE (Page 10) A letter from Barry Greenwood of CAUS, who critiques the editor's commentary on UFO reports, suggesting that newsclips alone are insufficient to determine reality. Greenwood argues that many "new material" sightings might be explainable as IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and that the Gulf Breeze reports are disputed.

Personal Notes

Gene Steinberg discusses the changes in the magazine's layout and typeface, attributing them to the adoption of desktop publishing technology. He explains that the entire production process, except for printing, can now be done at his desk, including managing the mailing list and finances. He sees this as a significant investment for the future of Caveat Emptor and other magazines he plans to launch.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the mystery of UFOs, the role of government in potentially covering up information, and the need for critical thinking and the asking of the right questions in UFO research. The editorial stance, as articulated by Gene Steinberg, is one of skepticism towards conventional explanations and a call for deeper, more rigorous investigation that challenges existing assumptions. There is a clear emphasis on questioning authority and established narratives, particularly concerning government involvement and the nature of the UFO phenomenon itself. The magazine appears to advocate for an open-minded yet critical approach, exploring various theories while demanding evidence and logical reasoning.

Title: CAVEAT EMPTOR
Issue: Winter, 1989-90
Date: Winter, 1989-90

This issue of CAVEAT EMPTOR delves into various controversial topics, featuring a lengthy interview with veteran UFO researcher Peter Kor, an exploration of Black Magic and Voodoo by Geneva Hagen, and critical analyses of advertising, pesticides, and government disinformation.

The Caveat Emptor Interview: Peter Kor (Part II)

Gene Steinberg continues his interview with Peter Kor, who has been researching UFOs since the 1940s. Kor expresses a shift from his initial belief in extraterrestrial origins to a more complex understanding, suggesting that the phenomenon might be a product of government experimentation and disinformation. He posits that the government may have deliberately fostered the 'alien' narrative to cover up its own technological developments or secret projects, citing examples like the testing of high-altitude aircraft (U-2, Blackbird) and the Philadelphia Experiment as potential sources of confusion.

Kor argues that the 'saucer saga' is a dead end when viewed in isolation and is actually a subset of larger issues concerning government, power, and manipulation. He criticizes researchers who get caught up in the 'movement mentality,' urging them to examine their motives and to ask new questions beyond the conventional framework. He suggests that 'moles' or individuals with military/intelligence ties may have infiltrated the UFO field to 'spin' the narrative and control information, potentially using researchers like Donald Keyhoe as conduits. Kor also touches upon the role of 'handlers' in political campaigns and speculates on the possibility of a shadow government or power plays within intelligence agencies.

He advises researchers to be rigorous in their thought and investigation, and to avoid being desperate to believe, as this makes them easier to control. Kor believes that the true mysteries are not where most people are looking and that understanding the 'why' behind flying saucers is crucial to understanding the 'what.'

The Ego Corner: Black Magic by Geneva Hagen

Geneva Hagen, co-founder of CAVEAT EMPTOR, defines Black Magic as the manipulation of symbols and technology to cause harm for personal gain, emphasizing material consequences. She contrasts this with 'Magick,' which she implies is more spiritual. Hagen discusses Voodoo, an amalgamation of African tribal religions practiced in Haiti and elsewhere, as a means for Haitians to connect with unseen forces and gain strength. She notes its darker side, stemming from oppression, and highlights the art of zombie-making, which involves a poison that induces a death-like coma, followed by brainwashing and enslavement.

Hagen also addresses the dangers of pesticides and herbicides, linking them to biological warfare products and noting their presence in food crops and water supplies. She specifically calls out sodium fluoride, a byproduct of aluminum manufacturing also marketed as a pesticide, for its potential to cause birth defects, cancer, and psychological issues. She advocates for boycotting products with safety seals and criticizes the widespread use of chemicals that adapt and become resistant.

Advertising

The article critiques advertising as a form of Black Magic, arguing that it drives the sales of harmful products and dictates mass media content. It highlights the significant amount of advertising the average viewer, especially children, is exposed to, suggesting that TV acts as an 'electronic baby-sitter.' Hagen asserts that advertising imbeds suggestions in the subconscious by engaging emotional centers while critical faculties are suppressed. This can lead to pent-up emotions, hyperactivity in children, and a lack of constructive self-entertainment. The article also mentions physical health risks associated with prolonged TV viewing, such as visual impairment and exposure to X-radiation from CRTs.

Media Portrayal and Subliminals

Hagen further criticizes the media's portrayal of women, noting the sexualization of even young girls and the expectation for women to maintain an 'irresistible' appearance, which fuels the market for expensive beauty products. She also touches upon the pervasive implication that products can fulfill spiritual and emotional needs, and the danger of political opinion-making through media, where image can overshadow reality. The article discusses the role of advisors and speechwriters in politics, contrasting their skills with the need for genuine understanding of global events.

Finally, the piece examines subliminal messages in advertising, suggesting they can work by influencing viewers subconsciously. Hagen provides examples of how unsettling feelings can be provoked by stimuli that are not consciously perceived. She differentiates these from true subliminals, which operate below the threshold of conscious perception, making them difficult to detect even when suspected.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently critiques the manipulation of information and perception, whether through government disinformation, the persuasive power of advertising, or the subtle influence of subliminal messages. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, examining motives, and questioning established narratives. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official explanations and a call for deeper, more rigorous investigation into complex phenomena, urging readers to move beyond simplistic 'movement' mentalities and to consider the broader societal and psychological implications of the topics discussed.

This issue of "CAVEAT EMPTOR" (Winter, 1989-90, Volume VII) features a cover story on the legendary "Great Birds of the Allegheny Plateau" by Curt Sutherly. It also includes articles on the perceived links between Satanism and popular music, economic critiques, and the concept of 'demigods' in modern society by Craig Della Penna.

Great Birds of the Allegheny Plateau

Curt Sutherly's article explores the folklore and potential reality of giant birds, referred to as 'thunderbirds,' in the Allegheny Plateau region. He begins by noting that Amerindians spoke of a species unlike any other, which Europeans later called thunderbirds. These creatures were described as huge, monstrous birds. Sutherly cites the late zoologist Ivan T. Sanderson, who considered these accounts to be straightforward zoological facts, noting the presence of tens of thousands of wood and stone sculptures of these birds.

The article details various names given to these birds by different tribes, such as Heloha (Choctaw) and Tlanuwa (Cherokee). It mentions that in the late 1970s, reports of huge birds emerged from southern Texas, Illinois, and rural areas of New Jersey, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Pennsylvania, particularly the town of Jersey Shore, Lycoming County, was a focus for sightings between mid-1969 and mid-1971.

Geologically, the Allegheny Plateau is described as a region of abundant heavy timber, including the Black Forest. Historically, it was inhabited by the Susquehannock and later the Iroquois and Algonquin tribes, who guarded the land, leading to its reputation as the 'Forbidden Land.'

Sutherly presents accounts of sightings, including that of Herb Nesman in northwest Clinton County, who in July 1987 saw a giant bird near an oil derrick, which he believed was a California condor. Nesman stated that such sightings were common in his childhood and that the birds had long wingspans, possibly over 18 feet. He based his belief on local historian Hiram R. Cramner's accounts.

The article discusses the difficulty in identifying these birds, noting that the California condor has a wingspan of about nine feet and the Andean condor ten to twelve feet, both smaller than the described 'thunderbirds.' The Pennsylvania Game Commission representative suggested imagination or exaggerated reports of turkey vultures.

Charlie Cross, an 83-year-old wildlife expert from north of Bush Dam, expressed skepticism, believing most accounts to be stories, though he confirmed reports of pumas and the presence of bald eagles.

Robert Lyman Jr. reported a 1973 sighting near Cross Fork, Pennsylvania, of birds with a wingspan of seven feet or longer, unlike any in the Golden Field Guide to Birds of North America. Lyman's father, Robert R. Lyman Sr., documented local thunderbird lore, including his own sighting around 1940 of a brownish bird standing upright like a vulture, with a wingspan estimated at 20-25 feet.

Further accounts include a farmer near Centerville, Crawford County, who supposedly live-trapped a huge bird described as grey, over four feet tall, with short legs and neck, which A.P. Akeley, a school superintendent, viewed. Akeley reportedly ruled out both Andean and California condors.

Lyman believed the Black Forest thunderbirds were being forced from their territory by civilization, with reports concentrated in the southern edge of the Black Forest. He cited numerous 1969-1971 sightings, including Anna and Clyde Mincer's observation of a bird with an 18-foot wingspan in November 1970, and another sighting of a bird with an 18-foot wingspan feeding on an opossum in June 1971.

Loren Coleman, a Fortean writer, suggests that some accounts might be accurate and that the great birds could be related to the prehistoric teratorn, a bird with wingspans ranging from 11 to 24 feet. Fossil remains of teratorns have been found across the United States. Paleontologists suggest the teratorn was a predator with a hooked beak, similar to Native American stories of thunderbirds disemboweling victims.

Satanism and Music

The article "SATANISM" discusses the perception of Satanism, particularly among teenagers involved with sex, drugs, and rock & roll. It suggests that parental warnings about these activities being 'of the Devil' can inadvertently make the Devil more attractive. The author notes that while punk and New Wave music may contain subliminals, they often stem from youth rage rather than financial exploitation. Heavy Metal is described as having a frantic tempo and often featuring satanic themes.

A recent broadcast on a Mormon-run Seattle TV station listed 'four warning signs' of dabbling with Satanism: a drop in grades, skin designs, unusual nicknames, and a painted fingernail. The author dismisses these as factors more associated with adolescent turbulence.

The article mentions the Church of Satan, headed by Anton LaVey, and describes its philosophy as self-centeredness. It also references an article in "Green Egg" magazine by a woman claiming descent from generational Satanists involved in child sacrifice, who allegedly masqueraded in respected professions. The author contrasts these with the idea of rebellious teenagers playing 'make-believe games.' A lyric from Buffie St. Marie is quoted: "Deep in the heart of town the Devil dresses up. He keeps his nails clean. Didja think he'd be a boogie man?"

Economics and Child Mortality

In the article "WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?" Geneva Hagen critiques the current global economic system, calling it a form of "Black Magic." She argues that technological advancement leads to job losses and increased poverty, and that the economic system is designed to transfer resources from the Third World to the Developed World, creating "debt slavery." Hagen highlights the deaths of 15 million children annually due to poverty and hunger, with an additional half-million deaths attributed to worsening economic conditions and World Bank measures.

UNICEF is calling for a Children's Summit to address these issues. The article discusses the practice of poor families selling their youngest child for survival and the more recent phenomenon of selling vital organs. It condemns criminal rings that engage in kidnapping and butchering babies for their organs, citing a discovered "human farm" in Central America.

Hagen argues that while individual guilt is not the focus, awareness of these exploitative chains is necessary. She points out that the national debt of the US has skyrocketed, suggesting that similar "structural readjustments" could impact social programs like Medicare and Social Security.

Demigods of Our Time

Craig Della Penna's article "Demigods of Our Time" explores the concept of extraterrestrial visitation and manipulation, and the role of heroes in society. He posits that we have been visited by extraterrestrials and manipulated by unknown forces, citing the evolution of ET portrayals in movies from gentle beings to terrifying creatures.

Della Penna identifies Madison Avenue and advertising as a primary agency manipulating minds, influencing elections through effective advertising rather than substantive issues. He also discusses the prevalence of fantasy and speculative fiction as a reflection of societal needs for myths and meaning, especially as religious belief wanes.

The article examines the concept of the 'hero' as a 'demigod' and a paragon. It lists a diverse range of heroes, from historical figures like Washington and Lincoln to fictional characters like Superman and Batman, suggesting that these figures reflect societal concerns and fears. Della Penna notes a lack of cultural consensus around these heroes in the diverse American society.

He contrasts the idealized, often 'boring' virtues of Superman with the more complex, 'darker' hero like Batman, who represents a more interesting fantasy. He suggests that aliens might be among us, observing and judging us by unknown standards.

Della Penna references Theodore Sturgeon's story "Occam's Scalpel," which proposed that aliens might be controlling multinational corporations to 'terraform' the planet. He also discusses the importance of striving to be more human and fulfilling the ideals presented by heroes. He emphasizes that comic book heroes and movie stars communicate messages in a simple form, urging readers to pay attention to these messages.

I Go to See the National UFO (And New Age) Conference

Gene Steinberg recounts his experience as a moderator at the 1989 National UFO Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. He describes the heat, the local economic climate, and his initial reluctance to be a speaker. He mentions the featured speakers: UFO contactee Wesley Bateman, South American UFO expert Antonio Huneeus, and Jenny Randles from the United Kingdom. Steinberg also notes the high price of gasoline at the time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue touches upon themes of the unexplained (thunderbirds, UFOs), the darker aspects of human culture (Satanism, child sacrifice), societal critique (economics, media manipulation), and the search for meaning and heroes in a complex world. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning conventional explanations and exploring alternative perspectives on phenomena ranging from folklore to extraterrestrial encounters and societal trends.

This issue of Caveat Emptor, dated Winter 1989-90, delves into various aspects of the unexplained, with a strong focus on UFOs, alien encounters, and conspiracy theories. The cover prominently features a sensational headline about suppressed CIA documents allegedly proving the US possesses UFOs and alien beings, promising to release 'all the facts about this "Cosmic Watergate"'. The magazine includes reports on UFO sightings in Russia and Canada, reviews of books on paranormal topics, and discussions of abduction phenomena.

Convention Report

The issue features a report on a UFO conference, detailing interactions with various figures in the field, including Jenny Randles, Jim Moseley, Brad Steiger, and Tim Beckley. The author recounts the press conference, the speakers' presentations, and the overall atmosphere of the event. Jenny Randles is noted for her presentation on 'Abductions-A European Viewpoint' and receives the 'Ufologist of the Year' award. The convention's approach of integrating UFOs and New Age subjects is deemed successful.

Book Reviews

Disneyland of the Gods by John A. Keel: Reviewed by Curt Sutherly, this book is described as John Keel's exploration of UFOs, strange creatures, and psychic phenomena, linking them to a belief in unseen powers manipulating mankind. The review notes Keel's insistence on his conclusions and his unique literary style, comparing him to Charles Fort. However, it also points out a lack of attribution for some anecdotes and suggests the book may not be Keel's best work, though his wit remains sharp.

The Sapiens System: The Illuminati Conspiracy by Donald Holmes, M.D.: Reviewed by Geneva Hagen, this book is criticized for its clumsy narrative and inclusion of semi-incestuous male sex fantasies. The reviewer finds Holmes' ideas on reality, including claims that the Holocaust and Vietnam War never happened, to be questionable. The book's premise that 'the main purpose of TV advertising is to expand our consciousness' and that corporations are designed to help fulfill human potential is also met with skepticism. The review concludes by questioning the implications of Holmes' 'Great Revelation' on an individual level.

Alien Abductions-The Mystery Solved by Jenny Randles: Reviewed by Gene Steinberg, this book attempts to synthesize numerous abduction case histories. Randles explores the 'Oz Factor' – an altered state of consciousness preceding abductions – and suggests possibilities such as future descendants or atmospheric radiation causing hallucinations. The review notes that Randles' view aligns with many European UFO investigators who do not dismiss abduction victims' accounts outright. The book is recommended as a primer on abduction case histories.

News and Reports

Red Stars Over Russia: This section reports on Soviet news agency TASS's coverage of alien contact, including a story about creatures with tiny heads and three eyes emerging from a landed UFO. Another report details a telepathic interview with a glowing creature from 'Redstar'. The author questions the motivation behind these reports, suggesting they might be a diversion from daily hardships or a sign of increased credibility for UFO phenomena.

Flying Pie-Pans Over Canada: A news report from CBC-TV National highlights numerous UFO sightings in Langenburg, Saskatchewan. Residents have reported a 10-meter object hovering silently over a farm shed, described as an 'upside-down pie-pan' with a brighter center. Glowing objects with red or blue flashing lights have also been observed.

Circles in the Grain: This segment discusses mysterious crop circles appearing worldwide, particularly around Stonehenge. Researcher Pat Delgado's book 'Circular Evidence' is mentioned, which includes color illustrations of these circles. The grain is found laid flat with a clear demarcation, and Delgado suggests extraterrestrials may be responsible, citing differences in the grain's biological growth processes.

Other Content

The issue also includes advertisements for other UFO-related publications and services, such as 'Gnosis' magazine, the 'UFO Newsclipping Service', and 'Fate' magazine. A subscription offer for 'UFO Magazine' is also featured, along with a classified advertising section.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the alleged cover-ups of UFO phenomena by governments, the reality of alien abductions, and the broader spectrum of Fortean and esoteric topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various viewpoints and encouraging readers to consider the evidence, while maintaining a critical perspective on sensational claims and unsubstantiated theories. The magazine seems to champion the idea that UFO phenomena are real and warrant serious investigation, often challenging mainstream skepticism.