Pursuit - No 53 - Vol 14 No 1 - 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 14, Number 1, Whole 53
Date: First Quarter 1981
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine, published by SITU, focuses on the complex nature of the UFO phenomenon, emphasizing psychological and psychosocial aspects alongside physical evidence. The cover features an etching by Francisco de Goya, "The sleep of reason produces monsters," setting a tone of introspection and the potential for the mind to create its own realities.

Key Articles and Features

The Dark Side of the UFO by Ernst Berger

This article, an excerpt from a report by Ernst Berger of the Northern UFO Network, argues for a "witness-centered investigation" approach to UFO phenomena. Berger suggests that while physical evidence is important, the subjective reality of the witness and their psychosocial context are crucial. He critiques standard investigation procedures for often neglecting the witness's mental state and the potential for collective hallucination or psychological projection. The article highlights that UFO reports are made by people, who can be mistaken, lying, or experiencing psychological phenomena. Berger advocates for understanding the witness's perspective to better interpret their reports, emphasizing that the witness is the "true independent variable."

The Individual and the UFO by Kim L. Neidigh

Neidigh explores the idea that UFOs might not be extraterrestrial spacecraft but rather powerful symbols or externalizations of shared human psychological needs. He proposes that the psyche can manipulate the environment to create a flying saucer, linking UFOs to man's need for unity and order, and the sky as a symbol of divinity. The article introduces the concept of the "geopsyche," the interaction between biological systems and the Earth's magnetic fields, suggesting that collective emotional states might influence physical surroundings and manifest as UFOs. This perspective shifts the focus from external phenomena to internal human consciousness.

Interview with Charles Berlitz and Maurice Chatelain

This interview features Maurice Chatelain, a former NASA space scientist involved in the Apollo program, who affirms his belief in the UFO phenomenon. Chatelain discusses his journey from skepticism to belief, influenced by his research and reports from European countries. He suggests that extraterrestrial civilizations might exist and could be attempting to communicate. The interview also touches upon the "Philadelphia Experiment" and the challenges of discussing UFOs within mainstream scientific circles. Chatelain highlights the dichotomy between "official scientists" and independent researchers.

UFO Landings in France: A Mathematical Message?

This section details research by Jean Charles Fumoux and Jean Francois Gille concerning 76 UFO landing sites in France from 1954. They discovered that these sites were not randomly distributed but formed geometric patterns, suggesting a deliberate selection. The analysis revealed a mathematical ratio of 22/7, linked to ancient astronomical calculations and prehistoric structures like Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid. This led to the hypothesis that the landing sites might represent a mathematical message from an unknown intelligence. The article also discusses another landing case near Dijon, where the dimensions of the print were found to be exact multiples of an ancient inch and related to prime numbers used in astronomical cycles.

Other Features

• Teleportation and Relativistic Rest-Mass? by Daniel Eden: Discusses theoretical aspects of teleportation.
• Electra, Who Came from Another Planet, Speaks to "Woman" Interview with Olga Batis: A case study involving a purported alien encounter.
• The Wudewasa or Hairy Primitives of Ancient Europe by Ivan T. Sanderson: A reprint of a monograph on a mysterious ancient European phenomenon.
• Atlantis: Lost and Found Again (Part II) by Jon Douglas Singer: Continues an exploration of the Atlantis myth.
• The Mississauga Blob by Dwight Whalen: A report on a specific UFO sighting.
• Some Curiosities of Animal Behaviour With Regard to Time by Sabina W. Sanderson: Explores unusual animal behaviors.
• SITUations, Report on the Press, Books, Memos & Miscellany, Letters: Regular columns providing updates, news, reviews, and reader correspondence.
• The Notes of Charles Fort Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst: Continues an exploration of Charles Fort's work and data.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, and the methodologies used to investigate them. There is a strong emphasis on the subjective experience of witnesses and the psychological factors that may influence reports, moving beyond purely physical explanations. The editorial stance appears to favor open-minded investigation and the exploration of unconventional theories, as evidenced by the publication of diverse articles ranging from scientific speculation to historical analysis of anomalous events. The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) positions itself as a platform for researchers who are often marginalized by mainstream science, encouraging the collection and study of data that falls outside conventional paradigms. The issue highlights the ongoing effort to understand the "unexplained" by examining both external evidence and the internal landscape of human perception and consciousness.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1981, features articles exploring the intersection of physics, paranormal phenomena, and ancient history. The cover story, "Teleportation and Relativistic Rest-Mass?" by Daniel Eden, delves into the theoretical physics behind phenomena like teleportation, drawing connections to Einstein's theories and experimental findings.

Teleportation and Relativistic Rest-Mass?

Daniel Eden's article posits that Special Relativity, particularly Einstein's E=MC² equation, might explain the energy source for paranormal phenomena like teleportation. He references Albert Einstein's 1905 paper on the relationship between energy content and mass, suggesting that the rest-mass energy of an object could be utilized for translation. Eden discusses a reported teleportation of a nickel-iron meteorite by Ray Stanford, noting that the specimen lost approximately 10% of its weight (4.88 ounces). He theorizes that repeated teleportation events could lead to a decay of mass, though not through radioactive processes. The article also touches upon earlier research by the American Society for Psychical Research (ASPR) concerning paranormal manifestations, which suggested energy sources like caloric or vital energies, and recent speculations involving negative-entropic transformations.

Electra, Who Came from Another Planet, Speaks to 'Woman'

This section, translated by George Peroulakis from an article in the Greek magazine Gynaika, details the case of Electra Barclay, an eighteen-year-old girl who experiences 'crises' where she speaks an unintelligible language and exhibits strange behavior. Parapsychologist George Vouloukos investigated, discovering that Electra's utterances resembled ancient Maya script and the Apache Indian dialect. During these episodes, Electra is believed to be inhabited by a spirit named Inkra, who claims to be from a planet called Sefkia, outside our solar system. Inkra states that she was once on Earth in a civilization like Atlantis and that her purpose is to help humanity. Inkra demonstrates knowledge of astrophysics and ancient history, including details about Atlantis and its spaceships. Electra's husband, Robert Barclay, describes living with two 'wives' – Electra and Inkra. The phenomenon is being studied scientifically, with initial findings suggesting two distinct personalities with different physiological readings.

The Wudewasa or Hairy Primitives of Ancient Europe

Authored by Ivan T. Sanderson, this article examines depictions of 'wild men' or 'Wudewása' in medieval European illuminated manuscripts. Sanderson argues that these figures, distinct from apes and people in costumes, represent relic knowledge of fully-haired primitives or subhumans from western Eurasia. He analyzes a specific depiction from a 15th-century English bestiary, noting similarities to Mongolian 'bear men' and Nepalese 'abominable snowmen.' The article highlights the detailed depiction of the feet of these figures, suggesting they are distinctly human with apposed great toes, distinguishing them from pongids. Sanderson traces the etymology of 'Wodehouse' and related terms, suggesting 'Wudu Wasa' means 'wild man of the woods.' He also discusses depictions of monkeys and apes in medieval art, emphasizing the artists' accuracy in portraying primate anatomy, particularly their feet, and differentiating them from human figures. Examples include figures from Janson's 'Apes and Ape Lore' and Hans Durer's work, as well as depictions of orangutans and other anthropoids.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unexplained, the boundaries of scientific understanding, and the potential for phenomena to challenge conventional paradigms. The articles bridge physics, parapsychology, and historical analysis, suggesting that seemingly disparate fields may hold interconnected truths. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the investigation of anomalous phenomena without immediate dismissal, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous scientific study and avoiding sensationalism. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader perspective on reality, one that considers possibilities beyond current scientific consensus.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: First Quarter 1981
Volume: 19
Date: 1981-01-01

This issue of Pursuit features a multi-part series on the search for Atlantis, focusing on Part II, "ATLANTIS: Lost and Found Again" by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A. The magazine also includes articles on "Wild Men in Mediaeval Plays" and discussions related to the Wudewása and Neanderthalers.

Wild Men in Mediaeval Plays

The article discusses the depiction of hairy men, referred to as Wudewása, in mediaeval art and plays. It notes the confusion arising from the importation of primates from other regions and the influence of legend and mythology. Early depictions, like the 14th-century "Wudewása Attacked by Dogs" (Fig. 10), show hairy humanoids, distinct from monkeys and apes. The article highlights how these figures were sometimes confused with actual wild men or depicted in costumes for pageants and plays, such as the "Carnival Figure" from a 16th-century Schembart book (Fig. 11).

It is suggested that scholars like Janson tend to interpret all such depictions as "apes" or men in costumes, overlooking the possibility of them representing a specific creature like the Wudewása or imitative costumes. The article references Bernheimer's studies and notes the Academy of Sciences of the U.S.S.R.'s consideration of reports about creatures like the Kaptar or Kheeter in the Caucasus.

The text also examines the physical characteristics attributed to these beings, particularly the foot structure, which is considered a key distinguishing feature between hominids and pongids. The foot of the Wudewása is described as having a distinct form and disposition of the big toe, aligning with hominid characteristics.

The Foot of the Wudewasa

This section reiterates that the most distinct feature of the Wudewása is its foot, specifically the big toe. It notes the growing recognition that the first toe's opposition is a constant and valid feature for differentiating hominids from pongids, unlike other previously used anatomical or cultural characteristics.

Conclusions on Wild Men

The article concludes that mediaeval and earlier depictions suggest the existence of primitive, fully furred or haired human beings with specific physical traits (long arms, beetling brows, dark skins) who used only wooden weapons. This knowledge was widespread in Europe until the 14th century, fading in the Mediterranean area during Roman times. This aligns with western legends and folklore. The disappearance of Neanderthalers from Europe is discussed, with the theory that they may have been absorbed or retreated rather than exterminated by Cro-Magnon man. Their acute senses and intelligence would have likely led them to retreat into forests. The article posits that Neanderthalers were not tribalized, unlike modern humans, which might have influenced their interactions.

It is argued that the Wudewása and other "wild men" could be descendants of Neanderthaloids who lingered in Europe and other parts of Eurasia. The argument that they were not Neanderthalers because they used only wooden implements, while they created fine Mousterian stone tools, is countered by the idea that not all Neanderthalers may have progressed to that stage, and some relic groups might have reverted to simpler tool use, especially in environments where stone was scarce. The progressive deterioration of fertility in small, untribalized groups confined to shrinking territories is also cited as a reason for their decline, rather than deliberate extermination.

Atlantis: Lost and Found Again (Part II)

This section, written by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., continues the investigation into the search for Atlantis. It revisits the search for sunken ruins in the Caribbean, referencing the prophecies of Edgar Cayce and the theories of Lewis Spence.

Early Investigations and Claims:

• Mitchell-Hodges: Searched for Atlantean colonies but found Mayan ruins.
• Mary Mosely: Believed an aerial survey would reveal a lost tribe in the Bahamas, but Michael Craton dismissed this as myth.
• Submerged Causeways: Charles Berlitz reported submerged causeways between Isla Muheres, Cozumel, and Chetumal in Mexico. L. Taylor Hansen mentioned remnants of a submerged road on Cosmul, composed of nine-foot sandstone rocks.
• Bimini Island Discoveries: In 1957, Dr. William Bell found an obelisk-shaped stone column and slabs of rock in forty feet of water near Bimini, noting a mysterious "glow" in photographs. David Zink's expedition failed to find it.
• Horace Gouvieve: Reported finding cut-stone structures and photographed them, published in "New World Antiquity" and "Atlantis."

The Ebb and Flow of Interest:

Interest in Atlantis waxed and waned, influenced by the number of investigators. Following Egerton Sykes' reports, interest lagged until 1963.

Russian Claims:

In 1963, Prof. Georgiy Lindberg of the Soviet Academy of Sciences claimed to have found evidence of sunken land near Iceland, linked to Atlantis, at a depth of 5,000-6,000 feet, though no submerged cities were found.

The Thera (Santorini) Theory:

In 1969-70, interest surged due to a theory linking Minoan ruins on Thera Island to Atlantis. Scholars like James Mavor, Jr., and J. V. Luce suggested that Solon's account of Atlantis' size and population was exaggerated and that the event occurred around 1500 B.C., coinciding with the collapse of Minoan civilization on Crete.

Challenges to the Location:

Plato placed Atlantis beyond the Pillars of Hercules (Strait of Gibraltar). The Thera theory is challenged by this geographical placement. The article notes that ancient Greek scientists would likely have corrected any errors in Plato's or Solon's accounts.

Skepticism and Further Searches:

Many archeologists became convinced there was no evidence of sunken cities in the Atlantic. Dr. Maurice Ewing of Columbia University searched for sunken cities along the Dolphin Ridge for thirteen years without success.

The Bimini Controversy:

• Valentine and Rebikoff: Discovered a row of stones 300 feet long and 30 feet wide near Bimini's main wall section, dated by marine life samples to between 6,000 and 12,000 years ago using carbon-14 dating.
• Argosy Magazine Expedition: Reported a story of divers finding two large stone statues and part of a marble column, which were then secretly removed.
• North American Rockwell Corp. Expedition: Included Dimitri Rebikoff and psychics from the Edgar Cayce Foundation, led by Edgar Mitchell. No significant findings were reported.

The Bimini controversy highlights the difficulty in distinguishing between beach rock and sunken ruins, a debate mirrored in the study of ancient stone structures in New England.

Other Underwater Finds:

• Venezuela: A wall-like feature, estimated at 100 miles long, was found off the coast of Venezuela near the Orinoco River. While initially classified as natural, Berlitz later suggested it might be man-made due to its straightness.
• Cape Hatteras: A 10-mile-long wall was found on the bottom off Cape Hatteras, also classified as natural by archeologists.
• Great Bahama Bank: A sketch by Valentine showed a large submerged structure, possibly a wall or causeway, extending for many miles west of Andros Island.
• Caicos Island: Berlitz reported underwater roads that appeared to go onto shore.

Linear Formations:

Linear formations, including arrow-like shapes and formations resembling tuning forks or cavalry swords, have been found near Bimini and Caicos Island. These are noted for their consistent recognizability.

Future Articles:

Subsequent parts of the series will cover geometrical enclosures, sunken pyramids, the Asher Expedition to Cadiz, and Russian claims of sunken ruins on the Ampere Seamount.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue explores themes of ancient mysteries, lost civilizations, and the interpretation of historical and archeological evidence. There is a recurring focus on the challenges of distinguishing between natural phenomena and human artifacts, particularly in underwater contexts. The magazine presents various theories and findings, encouraging readers to consider different perspectives on these enduring enigmas. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena and historical puzzles, drawing on a wide range of sources and expert opinions.

Title: The Mississauga Blob
Issue: First Quarter 1981
Publisher: Pursuit
Date: 1981

This issue of Pursuit magazine delves into the perplexing case of "The Mississauga Blob," a mysterious incident that occurred on June 16, 1979, in Mississauga, Ontario. The cover story, by Dwight Whalen, details the experience of Traven Matchett and his daughter Donna, who witnessed a flaming green mass appear on their backyard picnic table. The article explores the object's characteristics, the initial investigation, and the various theories proposed to explain it, including a flaming frisbee and potential extraterrestrial origins. Beyond the main feature, the magazine presents a diverse collection of articles on unexplained phenomena, animal behavior, historical mysteries, and scientific investigations.

The Mississauga Blob

The central article recounts the events of June 16, 1979, when Traven Matchett, while painting his ping-pong table, observed a cylindrical column of flame shoot up from a molten green mass on his picnic table. His daughter Donna doused the fire with a garden hose. The resulting object was a small, flat, dark green mass with a fibrous, pock-marked texture, weighing about four ounces. Matchett described the flame as intense, reddish-orange with yellow streaks, and perfectly cylindrical, with a flat top. He noted that the substance cooled and solidified rapidly, becoming "ice cold" and hard.

Initial investigations involved contacting the Toronto International Airport and military air bases, but no official explanation was forthcoming. The Ontario Ministry of the Environment concluded the substance was polypropylene, a common plastic. However, the Matchetts disputed this, stating they had no plastic dinner plates, and that all items on the table (reading glasses, an ashtray, a towel, a garden glove, and matches) remained after the incident. Matchett also conducted his own tests with frisbees, finding they burned differently and produced smoke, unlike the blob.

The article highlights the public interest generated by the story, with media attention and interviews. Matchett also recounts a visit from a Ministry inspector who, with a pencil, suggested it looked like a frisbee, an interaction Matchett found dismissive.

Further investigation revealed other similar "blobs" found in the area, including a black one found by Mrs. Dorothy Smith and a large, eight-pound blob found by Chuck Le Ber. Matchett suspects a possible "alien invasion" or a coordinated effort to explain these phenomena.

The article discusses the police investigation and the analysis by the Center of Forensic Sciences in Toronto, which confirmed the presence of polypropylene and polystyrene, noting they are common plastics used in items like plant pots and trays. However, Matchett felt the forensic lab was not fully transparent, particularly regarding their request for the entire blob sample.

Matchett also faced suspicion and crank phone calls, leading him to secure his picnic table. The article touches on the "Flaming Frisbee Theory" and Matchett's strong objections to it, citing the impossibility of such an act given the circumstances.

Other Unexplained Phenomena

Some Curiosities of Animal Behaviour With Regard to Time

Sabina W. Sanderson explores the seemingly predictive behavior of animals. She notes how deer appeared to know when hunting season would start and how pheasants exhibited unusual timing, such as a specific pheasant that paraded on a lawn for three consecutive years at precisely the same time each day during hunting season. Sanderson also shares an anecdote about her cats waking her at a specific time each morning, but only on weekdays. She discusses the scientific debate on whether animals "think" and their ability to understand time, citing experiments with rats that demonstrated awareness of their own actions.

The Individual and the UFO

This section examines the hypothesis that UFO sightings might be influenced by the observer's psychological state and the collective unconscious, creating a "geopsychic" phenomenon. It analyzes two cases: Scoutmaster D. S. Desvergers' encounter with a flying saucer in 1952, which resulted in burns and charred plant roots, and Lt. George Gorman's aerial encounter with a pulsating disc in 1948. The author suggests that strong emotions and legends can psychokinetically interact with the environment to shape UFO images.

Three Heads and a Tale

This segment reports on three curious items: the debunking of the Piltdown Man as a hoax, the disappearance of the Peking Man remains, and the indictment of Christopher Janus for defrauding investors in a search for the Peking Man. It highlights the themes of deception and the difficulty of fooling people.

Mystery Malady Kills Twins

This brief report describes the simultaneous death of 9-week-old twins from sudden infant death syndrome in Detroit, a rare occurrence.

Lost in 1880, Found in 1980

This article details the discovery of Thomas Nickerson's manuscript, a survivor's account of the 1820 whale attack on the ship Essex, which inspired Herman Melville's "Moby Dick." The manuscript, written in 1880, had been lost for a century before being found in a Connecticut attic, raising questions about its disappearance and reappearance.

'Sunken Cities' of 1000 B.C.

Filmmakers discovered evidence of ancient constructions at the bottom of Lake Titicaca, suggesting the existence of submerged cities. Archeologists believe these structures are remnants of the Tihuanaco civilization, which mysteriously disappeared around 900 B.C. The findings challenge existing historical narratives and suggest a catastrophic event.

Inversion, Distortion, Simulation

Professor Waldemar H. Lehn used computer analysis to explain a "monster" sighting on Lake Winnipeg. He concluded that the creature was a distorted image of a boulder caused by a temperature inversion, a meteorological phenomenon where warm air is trapped above cooler air. The article suggests that such inversions can create optical illusions, potentially explaining historical accounts of mermaids and mermen.

Cattle-Killing Mosquitoes

This report describes a severe infestation of salt-marsh mosquitoes in Brazoria County, Texas, which led to the deaths of 40 cows, three horses, and several calves due to severe anemia. The phenomenon was attributed to Hurricane Allen, which brought saltwater to the area, triggering the hatching of dormant mosquito eggs.

Relative Triangles

This piece discusses mysterious ship disappearances in the South China Sea, an area that may be an "oriental clone" of the Bermuda Triangle. The article notes that historical documents also mention similar incidents, and speculates that whirlpools formed by ocean currents might be responsible.

Area Group Faces Earthly Problems

This article, by Suzanne Bilello of The Washington Star, reports on Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), an Arlington-based group seeking UFO-related documents from the CIA and NSA under the Freedom of Information Act. The group faces challenges from the federal government, which is accused of withholding "spectacular" evidence. CAUS is appealing a court decision that denied them access to certain documents. The article highlights the group's efforts to obtain information and their desire for scientific research on UFOs, distinguishing themselves from sensationalist UFO literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around unexplained phenomena, mysteries from history and science, and the challenges of obtaining information from official sources. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting various theories and investigations without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. There is a clear interest in UFOs, paranormal events, and historical enigmas, coupled with a critical examination of scientific and governmental responses to these topics. The editorial stance encourages readers to consider alternative explanations and to question established narratives, while also emphasizing the importance of rigorous investigation and documentation.

This issue of *Pursuit* magazine, dated First Quarter 1981, focuses on a collection of book reviews and reader contributions related to unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and scientific inquiry.

Book Reviews

The Stones of Atlantis & The Ancient Stones Speak by David Zink

Reviewed by George W. Earley, these two books by David Zink are presented as belonging to the 'believers' camp regarding the existence of Atlantis. Zink, a Ph.D. in English literature, conducted on-site investigations, particularly off Bimini, seeking evidence of megalithic structures and ancient astronaut visits. The reviewer notes Zink's reliance on psychic 'readings' and Edgar Cayce's theories. While acknowledging the existence of underwater stone objects, the reviewer questions whether they are man-made or evidence of a lost super-civilization, suggesting Zink's work is speculative and lacks hard facts. Earley recommends Edwin Ramage's 'Atlantis: Fact or Fiction' for a more grounded perspective. He concludes that Zink's second book is even more speculative, touring various megalithic sites worldwide but failing to substantiate claims of super-civilizations or ancient astronauts. Earley states he will believe when solid proof is supplied, deeming such books more suitable for fiction writers.

The Right Brain: A New Understanding of the Unconscious Mind and Its Creative Powers by Thomas R. Blakeslee

Reviewed by Frank B. Salisbury, this book is lauded for providing a satisfying 'aha' experience regarding the functions of the human brain. Blakeslee, an inventor and engineer, summarizes current knowledge on the specialized functions of the brain's two hemispheres, drawing on studies of stroke patients, brain tumor patients, and particularly the experiments of Roger Sperry at Caltech. Sperry's work with split-brain patients demonstrated that the left hemisphere is the language specialist, while the right hemisphere excels at visual processing, image recognition, and emotions. The book explains that the right brain is aware and conscious, constantly processing sensory input, but the left brain, which controls speech, labels it 'unconscious' because it doesn't communicate verbally. Salisbury highlights Blakeslee's argument that modern education overemphasizes the left hemisphere and neglects the right. The review mentions Blakeslee's discussion of 'Inner Tennis' and 'Inner Skiing' and how the right hemisphere is crucial for mastering skills. The reviewer also notes the book's exploration of how the right brain influences emotional responses and love life.

Saga America by Barry Fell

Reviewed by George W. Earley, this book is presented as a significant contribution to the understanding of pre-Columbian history. Fell argues that voyages to the New World, including Viking and possibly Carthaginian expeditions, began as early as 300 B.C., challenging the traditional view of America as an unknown continent until Columbus. Fell's evidence relies heavily on interpreting rock markings and inscriptions found across North America, which he claims are recognized by Libyan scholars. He criticizes archaeologists for focusing on artifacts while ignoring written records. The book includes numerous photos and drawings of rock markings, artifacts, and mathematical devices. Earley agrees with Fell's assertion that America was a busy trading area with trans-oceanic shipping long before 2000 years ago and encourages readers to examine Fell's work before dismissing it.

Casebook of a UFO Researcher by Raymond E. Fowler

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this book is described as a hopeful sign for UFO investigation in 1981. Fowler's work is compared to his earlier book, 'UFOs: Interplanetary Visitors,' and is noted for its informative and accessible style, unlike his more complex 'The Andreasson Affair.' Fowler, who emulated Major Donald E. Keyhoe and was associated with NICAP, presents a historical tour of UFO annals alongside his own research. Barrow highlights Fowler's relentless attacks on alleged government secrecy and censorship, particularly in chapters on 'Haunted Witnesses' and 'Retrievals of the Third Kind.' While acknowledging that not all readers may accept Fowler's personal theories, Barrow asserts that the book offers valuable insights and enjoyable anecdotes, making it a good guide for researchers.

On a Slide of Light by Greta Woodrew

Reviewed by Fred Wilson, this book is presented as a personal account of psychic experiences. Woodrew, described as an accomplished executive search firm president with academic and legal achievements, details her journey into the world of parapsychology. Her thesis is that paranormal activities are explainable by expanding traditional thinking beyond normal sensory perception. The book covers her experiences with metal-bending, psychometry, telepathy, psychic healing, and psychokinesis, crediting her husband Dick and Dr. Andrija Puharich for their assistance. Puharich affirmed her receptivity to contact from entities from the 'Ogatta' planet. The review notes that Woodrew's conclusion is free of bitterness and invites readers to explore the path to life-fulfillment she describes.

Memos & Miscellany

This section includes announcements for upcoming events, such as the 18th Annual National UFO Conference and 'The 1981 Rainbow Experience of 'Transition Through Transformation'.' It also addresses a printing error in a previous issue, apologizing for misprinting the by-line of J. N. Williamson. A brief statistical overview from 'The 'Average American' Book' by Barry Tarshis is provided, covering beliefs in UFOs, Bigfoot, cohabitation, infidelity, and life after death.

Letters

This section features reader contributions:

• 'Lake George Monster' Photograph: The Publisher shares a photograph related to Joe Zarzynski's story about the 'Lake George Monster,' noting that a successful monster doesn't need to be monstrous to be scary.
• 'Seeing is Almost Believing': The Publisher shares a photograph of Elzear Sirios with his wooden 'pet monster' replica, a lake serpent from Lake Pohenemagook, Quebec. The section also includes a photo of a two-headed female goat.
• Edgar Wilson's Pyramid Theory: A reader comments on Edgar Wilson's theory linking the Giza pyramids to planets, suggesting it provides evidence for visible cosmic disturbance prior to 1450 B.C. The reader notes Wilson's assumption of changes in the Pyramid of Mycerinus's plan and mentions similar evidence for changes in other pyramids.
• Thomas Helm's Shark Observation: John E. Marshall reports on Thomas Helm's observation of twenty-five dead hammerhead sharks off the coast of Florida, all with unusual gashes between their heads and gill slits, suggesting a possible case of 'marine mutilation.'
• Jon Beckjord's Sasquatch Weight Calculation: A reader provides a critique of Jon Beckjord's method for calculating Sasquatch weight using soil mechanics, suggesting that settlement is inversely proportional to the radius (square root of the area) rather than the area itself.
• Calgary Photograph: Erich Krug submits a photograph taken in Calgary, Alberta, showing an entity that he believes is an 'invisible critter.' He provides technical details about the camera and film used and notes that the entity appears in only some frames.
• 'Alternative Three' Correction: A reader clarifies that 'Alternative Three,' reviewed in a previous issue, is fiction based on a film described as a documentary but featuring actors.
• Polaroid Photograph: Michael S. Sr.nders shares a Polaroid photograph taken in the Arabian desert of an object taking off after landing, seeking analysis.
• Radio Signal Research: Vincent J. Pinto, an electrical engineer, requests information on anomalous and delayed-return radio signals for his research project.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section, deciphered by Carl J. Pabst, provides a chronological listing of historical events related to atmospheric and geological phenomena, including darknesses, meteors, earthquakes, and unusual weather patterns, primarily from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It references various scientific journals and publications as sources.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, fringe science, and historical anomalies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and the investigation of topics often dismissed by mainstream science. There is a clear interest in ancient civilizations (Atlantis, pyramids), paranormal abilities, UFOs, and unusual natural events. The publication aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives, even those considered speculative, while also offering critical analysis and factual corrections when necessary. The inclusion of 'The Notes of Charles Fort' demonstrates a commitment to historical documentation of anomalous events.

Title: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 4
Date: September 1968
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "Pursuit," the newsletter for The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU), dated September 1968, details the organization's origins and structure, and begins to chronicle its investigations into unexplained phenomena.

Origins of SITU/PURSUIT

The article "ORIGINS OF SITU/PURSUIT" outlines the genesis of the organization. Zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, along with other authors, established a "foundation" in 1965 for the exposition and research of the paranormal. This initiative aimed to explore "disquieting mysteries of the natural world" that had occupied Sanderson's investigative career.

To engage professionals and non-professionals with similar interests, the steering group decided to publish a newsletter. The first issue appeared in May 1967. The response, while not overwhelming, was sufficient to confirm public interest in their work.

Newsletter No. 2, published in March 1968, announced new plans for the Sanderson foundation. A larger structure was envisioned, to be called The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, with official documents filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. The name "Pursuit" was first displayed above the "newsletter" subtitle in June 1968. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968, the abbreviation "SITU" was formally adopted as the Society's designation.

Scientific Advisory Board and Content Shift

Issue number 4 marked a significant shift in content. It introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing the names and affiliations of its advisors. This board included prominent figures such as Dr. George A. Agogino (Director of Anthropology Museums), Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Director of Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center), Dr. George C. Kennedy (Professor of Geology), and Dr. Michael A. Persinger (Department of Psychology), among many others from diverse scientific disciplines.

Administrative matters, which had previously dominated the newsletter, were relegated to the last four pages of the twenty-page issue. The majority of the content was dedicated to investigative reporting on various phenomena.

Featured Investigations and Phenomena

The September 1968 issue highlighted several intriguing cases:

• A Great Armadillo from Argentina: The report mentioned a "great armadillo (6 feet long, 3 feet high)" that was allegedly captured in Argentina.
• Instantaneous Transportation: The phenomenon of "instant transportation of solid objects from one place to another and even through solids" was explored.
• University of Colorado UFO Project: The issue included information regarding an "attack on the famed University of Colorado UFO Project," which was headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Ringing Rocks and Stone Spheres: Updated information was provided on the mysteries surrounding "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

Thus, SITU was established, and "Pursuit" began its role in chronicling the Society's investigations into the unexplained.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication clearly positions itself as a platform for exploring paranormal phenomena and "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." The inclusion of a diverse Scientific Advisory Board suggests an attempt to lend scientific credibility and attract a broad range of expertise to the investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into subjects that lie outside conventional scientific understanding, focusing on detailed reporting of alleged events and phenomena.