Pursuit - No 54 - Vol 14 No 2 - 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 14, Number 2, Whole No. 54
Date: Second Quarter 1981 (April 30, 1981 for some articles)
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4685

This issue of Pursuit, the quarterly journal of SITU, delves into several intriguing unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on the 'Champ' of Lake Champlain, the mysterious 'Powys Beast' of Wales, and a scientific exploration of ice falls from space.

Lake Champlain's 'Monster'

The cover story, "Lake Champlain's 'Monster'," highlights the 1977 photograph taken by Sandra Mansi, which has undergone optical analysis and is presented as significant evidence of an unknown species in the lake. The article "'Champ' and the 1977 Mansi Photograph" by Fred Wilson discusses the photograph's publication in The New York Times and the initial reactions. Joseph W. Zarzynski, Chairman of the Lake Champlain Phenomena Investigation (LCPI), provides a personal update on his seven-year investigation, emphasizing the Mansi photograph as the most compelling piece of evidence. He details the efforts to get the creature protected and mentions the involvement of experts like Dr. Roy Mackal and Richard Greenwell. The article also touches upon the geographical characteristics of Lake Champlain and the challenges of documenting an elusive creature.

An "Interim Report/Lake Champlain 'Monster' Photograph" by Dr. B. Roy Frieden, Optical Sciences Center, University of Arizona, offers a technical analysis of the Mansi photo. Dr. Frieden concludes that the photo does not appear to be a montage and shows independent surface waves, suggesting the object is part of the scene. He notes peculiar vertical stripes, which he attributes to the mat surface of the original print, and a possible horizontal streak that might indicate a sandbar, a detail that could either support or refute a hoax. He emphasizes that if it is a sandbar, it would make a hoax easier to execute.

Under the section "'Champ' Look-Alikes?", the magazine explores historical accounts and potential identifications. The "Chaousarou" is described as an Indian name for a fish likened to a Mr. Hyde/Dr. Jekyll, mentioned in Samuel de Champlain's 1609 diary. The 'Zeuglodon' is presented as an ancient, primitive whale, and 'Plesiosaur' is suggested as a hypothesis for lake monsters by Richard Greenwell.

The 'Powys Beast'

"The Elusive 'Powys Beast'" by Janet & Colin Bord details reports from Wales in 1980 of a large, cat-like animal. The initial report came from a sheep farmer in Llangurig, Powys, who found large footprints and evidence of sheep kills. Subsequent sightings and reports from the England-Wales border and near Llanidloes are discussed, including descriptions of a gray, cat-like animal and large paw prints. The article notes that while some footprints were identified as potentially belonging to a large dog, other descriptions and circumstances suggest a more mysterious origin. The piece also references earlier 'big cat' sightings in England.

Ice Falls and the Leidenfrost Effect

"Ice Falls and the Leidenfrost Effect" by Morgan D. Eads explores the phenomenon of ice falling from the sky, suggesting it might originate from outer space. Eads explains the Leidenfrost effect, where a vapor layer insulates a liquid from a hot surface, allowing it to survive extreme temperatures. He posits that this effect could enable large ice masses to survive atmospheric entry, citing historical accounts of ice falls and laboratory examples of the Leidenfrost effect with various liquids. The article suggests that this phenomenon could be a plausible explanation for 'true' or classic ice falls, distinguishing them from aircraft-related ice.

Other Articles and Sections

• Editorial: Discusses the importance of technology in understanding nature's assaults.
• 'Champ'-A Personal Update: Joseph W. Zarzynski provides further details on his investigation and the Mansi photograph.
• Opinion-Why the Government Should Fund UFO Studies: An opinion piece by Thomas B. Burch advocating for government funding of UFO research.
• Scientists Find Nearly Perfect Remains Of 'Zhuantang Ape-Man' Killed in 1957: A brief mention of a paleontological discovery.
• Sailing in a Glowing Sea: A report by Charles E. Wood.
• Slip-ups in Science: A short piece on scientific errors.
• A Special Report to SITU-Odd Luminosities and Other Fortean Events Before Earthquakes: The New Madrid Test: An article by Dr. Michael A. Persinger, detailing his research into correlations between phenomena and earthquakes.
• Atlantis: Lost and Found Again (Part III): The continuation of an article by Jon Douglas Singer.
• Books: A section reviewing books.
• SITUations: Updates and news from SITU.
• Letters: Correspondence from members.

The issue also includes "Important Notices" regarding SITU's services, policies, and membership, and details about its publications, including the journal Pursuit.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of anomalous phenomena, the importance of scientific rigor in studying unexplained events, and the role of technology in advancing understanding. The editorial stance, as articulated by Fred Wilson, emphasizes the need for detailed and precise numerical analysis in studying Fortean events, moving beyond speculation to data-driven conclusions. The magazine promotes a spirit of open inquiry while advocating for careful, evidence-based research.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Second Quarter 1981
Volume: 13
Publisher: Pursuit
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4061
Price: $6.00

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Second Quarter 1981, explores a range of intriguing and often unexplained phenomena, from atmospheric physics and cryptozoology to the potential for government involvement in UFO research and the ancient significance of celestial bodies.

The Leidenfrost Effect and Ice Bolides

The issue begins with a detailed explanation of how ice bolides might survive atmospheric entry. The article introduces the Leidenfrost effect, a phenomenon where a vapor layer forms around a hot surface, insulating it. This effect is proposed as a mechanism that could protect an ice core from the intense heat of atmospheric drag, allowing it to reach the Earth's surface. The process described involves the ice melting, forming a liquid layer, and then a vapor layer that shields the core. The article also touches upon the concept of terminal velocity and how frictional forces in the atmosphere can slow down falling objects, suggesting that ice falls may not always leave impressive impact craters as one might expect.

'Champ'-A Personal Update and Cryptozoology

This section delves into the ongoing mystery of 'Champ,' a creature reportedly sighted in Lake Champlain. It recounts the efforts to protect the creature, including the presentation of the Mansi photograph to legislators. The article notes that while the photograph may convince some, it remains inconclusive for others. It also touches upon the broader field of cryptozoology, suggesting that creatures like 'Champ,' the Loch Ness Monster, and Bigfoot have long been targets of human ignorance and fear, and advocates for a more open-minded approach to studying these phenomena.

Why the Government Should Fund UFO Studies

Authored by Thomas B. Burch, this opinion piece argues for increased government funding and scientific research into the UFO phenomenon. The author contrasts the public's past perception of UFOs as 'flying saucers' and 'little green men' with the current, more serious public attitude. He highlights the U.S. Air Force's past investigation, which logged over 12,000 sightings, with 6% remaining unexplained. Since the Air Force discontinued its investigations in 1969, the task has fallen to private organizations with limited resources. Burch contends that while data collection is important, it is insufficient for conclusive research. He calls for 'genuine, top-dollar, scientific research' on the scale of the Apollo or Viking missions. The article outlines three main categories of UFO theories: extraterrestrial origin, psychic/paranormal manifestations, and unexplained conventional phenomena. It stresses that regardless of the true nature of UFOs, their realization will have a profound effect on humankind, necessitating serious consideration and investigation.

The author addresses two key reasons why the government has resisted funding UFO research: the lack of a well-defined program and the failure to explain 'why' the mystery needs to be solved. He argues that the national interest requires a full determination of what UFOs are. The article explores potential benefits and threats associated with the extraterrestrial hypothesis, including communication, assistance, or exploitation. It also touches upon the military and political applications of psychic/paranormal phenomena, noting potential interest from both the Soviet Union and the United States. Skeptics, or 'debunkers,' are also discussed, who attribute UFO sightings to conventional phenomena or misidentifications. However, the author maintains that even if skeptics are largely correct, serious UFO studies are still warranted. The article cites the 1952 Washington D.C. UFO sightings, tracked by radar and witnessed by numerous credible sources, as an example of an event that warrants investigation. It suggests that understanding conventional phenomena, like ball lightning, could have defense applications. Ultimately, the author advocates for government leadership to direct scientific inquiry towards proving what UFOs are, rather than disproving them, quoting Niels Bohr on the necessity of paradox for scientific advancement.

Scientists Find Nearly Perfect Remains of 'Zhuantang Ape-Man' Killed in 1957

This article reports on the discovery of evidence related to an 'ape-man' or ape-like creature in central and eastern China. A team of Chinese scientists investigated reports of sightings, building on previous searches by the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The most exciting discovery was the preserved hands and feet of an animal killed in 1957 by villagers in Zhejiang province after it attacked a young girl. The animal, described as a male, about 1.5 meters tall, covered in dark-brown hair, with human-like features, was dismembered by villagers. The preserved remains, though showing some muscle shrinkage, were in good condition. Scientists preliminarily assessed the animal as belonging to the primate family, with some likening it to a chimpanzee. The Zhejiang group also found 'nests' indicating the potential presence of a troop of apes. The article details the account of Xu Fudi, who was involved in the killing, and the teacher, Zhou Shousong, who preserved the remains. The search for these creatures has intensified since 1974, with authorities taking the reports seriously due to the caliber of eyewitnesses.

Sailing in a Sea of Light

This piece by Charles E. Wood describes a personal experience of sailing off the California coast on a foggy night. The author and his companions encountered numerous bands of glowing light in the sea, stretching east to west and extending beyond visibility. These bands, described as having a broad source of light well under water, were approximately 50 feet wide and appeared in succession for two hours. The phenomenon is identified as displays of phosphorescence or bioluminescence, described as one of the many extraordinary aspects of the ocean.

Sweet Influences Of Pleiades

Authored by Diane E. Wirth, this article explores the ancient veneration of the Pleiades star cluster. Despite being a small cluster in the constellation Taurus, the Pleiades held significant importance in ancient cultures, influencing destinies, commerce, and agriculture. The article discusses various legends, including the Pleiades being the home of the gods and departed spirits. It highlights their role in ancient astronomical measurements and calendar systems, with some scholars linking the Pleiades' meridian to the erection of the Great Pyramid. The belief that the Pleiades contained seven stars, despite only six being visible to the naked eye, is also discussed, along with legends of a seventh, once-brilliant star that dimmed. Modern astronomy reveals over 2,000 stars in the cluster, and while it does not revolve around the Pleiades, it lies in the direction of the galactic nucleus. The author speculates whether ancient astronomers possessed knowledge now forgotten.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine consistently focuses on unexplained phenomena and the need for rigorous scientific investigation, often challenging conventional scientific skepticism. The articles advocate for open-mindedness towards subjects like UFOs, cryptozoology, and ancient mysteries, urging for government and scientific communities to dedicate resources to these areas. There is a recurring theme of questioning established scientific paradigms and encouraging a deeper exploration of the unknown, whether it be in the skies, in remote wilderness, or in the historical record of celestial observations. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for the pursuit of knowledge in areas often dismissed by mainstream science, emphasizing the potential benefits and the importance of understanding these phenomena for humankind.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Second Quarter 1981
Volume: 12
Date: 1981-04-01
Publisher: SITU
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Pursuit features a prominent cover story titled "Glowing Sea," exploring the phenomenon of bioluminescence in the ocean. The magazine also includes a special report by Michael A. Persinger, Ph.D., titled "Odd Luminosities (UFOs) and Other Fortean Events Before Earthquakes: The New Madrid Test." The issue is divided into several articles and a research report, with a focus on scientific investigation and statistical analysis of unusual phenomena.

Glowing Sea

The article "Glowing Sea" describes the author's personal experience with large-scale bioluminescent displays at sea. While familiar with common forms of bioluminescence, the author was struck by the magnitude and clearly defined edges of these "sea lights." The phenomenon is attributed to millions of dinoflagellates, such as Noctiluca scintillans and Gonyaulax polyedra, which exhibit a day-night rhythm in their luminescence, with maximum output around 0100. The article notes that the exact reasons for these massive displays and the precise linear definition of the light remain unknown. A warning is issued regarding edible seafood in areas where such displays occur, as some Gonyaulax species are implicated in paralytic shellfish poisoning. The article concludes by explaining the basic chemical reaction behind bioluminescence, involving luciferin and oxygen, and highlights its efficiency compared to human energy production.

Slip-ups in Science

This section presents a collection of humorous and inaccurate answers from student test papers, compiled by the Mobserver, a newsletter of Alaska Mensa. Examples include misinterpretations of historical figures like Charles Darwin and Benjamin Franklin, and flawed explanations of scientific concepts.

Odd Luminosities (UFOs) and Other Fortean Events Before Earthquakes: The New Madrid Test

This special report by Michael A. Persinger, Ph.D., investigates the temporal and statistical relationships between unidentified flying object reports (UFORs), other Fortean events (poltergeist, animal mutilations, unusual animal reports), and earthquake measures within the New Madrid Region from 1943 to 1973. The study employed a step-wise multiple regression procedure to analyze data lagged from four years before to four years after key events.

Abstract and Introduction

The abstract highlights that low-intensity earthquakes (IV-V Modified Mercalli or less) were strongly coupled with UFOR numbers during the previous two-year periods. Between 40% to 60% of the variance in earthquake numbers could be explained by Fortean events, and up to 80% of UFOR variance could be explained by Fortean categories and low-intensity earthquakes. Higher intensity quakes (VI or more MM) were predicted more by force events two to four years prior.

The introduction notes that the relationship between unusual luminous events and earthquake activity is a recurring theme in historical data. With the availability of dense data matrices for luminous events (UFO reports) and seismic displays in recent decades, reliable statistical analyses are possible. Previous research by the author reported significant correlations between UFO reports and subsequent increases in seismic activity in the central and eastern U.S.A. The report also references studies by Laporte and D. Fidelers, who mapped concentrations of UFO-type events and Fortean displays near seismic areas, though these were not subjected to numerical analysis.

Models and Hypotheses

Two models are proposed for the generation of luminosities. The first, developed by Brady, suggests that intense, localized strain or a minute fracture releases a plasma-like condition that, upon reaching the surface, ionizes the air, producing a luminous display. The second model, by Persinger, argues that luminosities are maintained within dense electromagnetic columns or vortices generated by transient piezoelectric and piezomagnetic fields within the earth's crust. The release of this strain can also induce electrical oddities and 'poltergeist activity.'

The study selected the New Madrid region due to its history of mid-level earthquakes and a high frequency of Fortean events. Predictions based on the model include:
1. UFO/luminosity numbers should precede and be significantly correlated with earthquake numbers.
2. UFO or luminosity reports should correlate most with V intensity (MM) or less earthquakes, rather than VI or greater.
3. Reports of odd forces, subdermal afflictions, or animal mutilations should precede luminosity and earthquake activity.

Data Selection and Methodology

The study utilized data from the six states surrounding the New Madrid Earthquake Region (Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, and Arkansas) for the years 1943 to 1973. Four general classes of events were formed: multiple UFO reports (UFORs), human or animal damage (PKORG), inorganic effects (PKOBJ), and unusual animal reports (ANIMA). Data were obtained primarily from Fate magazine and newspaper reports.

Earthquake data were categorized into low intensity (LOWQU, IV-V MM or less) and high intensity (HIGHQ, VI or greater MM). The analysis involved 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year intervals, with 6-month intervals showing the clearest significant relationships between UFO reports and seismic activity.

Statistical analyses included SPSS software for data allocation, calculation of central tendency, variation, skewness, and kurtosis. Kendall's correlations and Pearson Product Moment correlations were used, along with symmetrical lag multiple regression to examine relationships across time. Stepwise multiple regression analyses were performed to predict either UFORs or earthquake classes.

Results

Bivariate Analyses:

Table 1 shows simple correlation coefficients between UFORs and earthquakes, lagged up to 8 increments (4 years) before and after seismic events. The majority of significant correlations occurred with negative lags, indicating UFORs preceding low-intensity earthquakes. The New Madrid area showed significant correlations between earthquake numbers and UFORs 1.5 to 2.0 years prior. Higher intensity quakes had less consistent correlations, with UFORs preceding them even earlier.

Other Fortean classes (PKOBJ and PKORG) showed the highest correlations with lags -6 to -8 (3rd to 4th years) before high-intensity activity only. Animal categories showed consistently small negative correlations with earthquake numbers, suggesting a decrease in animal reports as earthquake numbers increased.

Multiple Regression: Six-Month Intervals:

Tables 2 and 3 summarize the multiple regression analyses. For predicting low-intensity earthquakes (LOWQU), UFORs lagged by 1.5 years (UFORS -3) were the most significant predictor. ANIMA and FORCE also contributed, but to a lesser extent. For high-intensity earthquakes (HIGHQ), FORCE lagged by 3.5 years (FORCE -7) was a significant predictor, with UFORS lagged by 2.5 years (UFORS -5) also contributing.

When predicting UFORs, low-intensity earthquakes lagged by 1.5 years (LOWQU +3) were the strongest predictor. FORCE events also played a role. The study found that knowing UFOR events, ANIMA observations, and FORCE occurrences in the New Madrid region could account for 41% to 63% of the variance in earthquake numbers over the next one to two years.

Multiple Regression: One-Year Intervals:

Table 4 presents results for one-year intervals. For predicting UFORs, low-magnitude earthquakes two years after the UFORs (LOWQU +2) were the most powerful single bivariate correlate. FORCE events of the following year and ANIMA sightings two lags after the reference earthquake activity also contributed significantly. The contribution of FORCE and ANIMA to UFORs was maintained when high-intensity quakes were considered, accounting for 58% of the variance.

When predicting earthquakes from Fortean classes, increased low-magnitude earthquake numbers were preceded by increased UFORs two years prior (lag of -2). Increased FORCE events were evident within years of increased seismic activity, while animal reports decreased.

About the Author

Dr. Michael A. Persinger is a Professor of Psychology at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. He has authored numerous books and articles on psychology and Fortean phenomena. He is a member of SITU's Scientific Advisory Board and was recognized for his previous work on predicting Fortean event reports from population and earthquake numbers.

Conclusion

The study concludes that UFORs and FORCE events tend to occur before earthquakes. The strongest relationships were observed between low-intensity earthquakes and UFORs, with UFORs often preceding seismic events. The predictive power of these variables suggests a potential link between unusual luminous events and seismic activity. The author notes that while partitioning data into different classes is theoretically important, simple summation of all Fortean events within the same interval could achieve comparable correlations with earthquake measures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unusual phenomena, particularly "glowing seas" (bioluminescence) and the potential correlation between UFO sightings and earthquakes. The magazine adopts a scientific and analytical approach, employing statistical methods to explore these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to favor rigorous research and data-driven conclusions, as evidenced by the detailed statistical analysis presented in the special report. There is an underlying interest in the unexplained and a desire to bring scientific scrutiny to subjects often relegated to speculation.

This issue of Pursuit, dated Second Quarter 1981, features a cover story titled "ATLANTIS: Lost and Found Again" by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., Part III. The magazine delves into various unexplained phenomena, including potential correlations between UFO sightings and earthquakes, and the enduring mystery of Atlantis and ancient submerged structures.

UFOs and Earthquakes in the New Madrid Region

The lead article presents an analysis of UFOR (Unidentified Flying Object) reports and earthquake numbers in the New Madrid region between 1943 and 1973. The data indicated strong relationships, with UFOR activity consistently changing in the one- to two-year period before low-intensity earthquake activity. The study suggests that UFOR data alone could account for 30% to 57% of the variance in earthquake numbers. More precise analyses showed that alterations in UFOR reports during the preceding 6-month and 1.01 to 1.5-year intervals were the best predictors of low-intensity earthquake activity. The relationship was found to be asymmetric, with increased UFORs reliably preceding increased low-intensity earthquake activity. The time between an increase in UFOR reports and an earthquake is suggested to reflect the earthquake's potential intensity. While low-intensity earthquakes showed a clear preceding pattern with UFORs, high-intensity earthquakes (VI or greater MM) exhibited a different pattern, with UFORs not significantly associated except for very long lags. The analysis also touched upon the "FORCE" variable, which seemed to correlate with earthquake activity, and the potential for a recondite interaction between poltergeist-like activities and UFO events. The study acknowledges limitations, including the nature of absolute data values and the need for more precise measures of UFO intensity.

The Atlantis Enigma: Sunken Structures and Ancient Maps

The article "ATLANTIS: Lost and Found Again" by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., explores various theories and evidence related to the legend of Atlantis. It discusses the prevailing theory that a Minoan Cretan city destruction at Thera-Santorini Island was the source of the legend, but also highlights a minority of researchers who believe Atlantis was located in the Atlantic.

Evidence for Atlantic-based Atlantis includes reports of sunken stone structures off the coast of Andros Island and Bimini in the Bahamas. Researchers like Bob Brush, Trigg Adams, and Professor J. Manson Valentine have documented large rectangular and circular structures submerged underwater. Robert Marx also reported finding numerous sunken stone structures near Andros. These findings have led to speculation about an Atlantis-type civilization or colony in the Caribbean and Lesser Antilles.

The article also discusses the possibility of sunken pyramids in the Bahamas, which, if confirmed, would suggest either an ancient pre-Columbian civilization or contact with ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia. The unique nature of pyramids as a potential marker for sunken structures is emphasized.

Further evidence comes from ancient maps, particularly the Piri Re'is map and the Buache map of 1737. Charles Hapgood's analysis of these maps suggests they depict sunken lands and continents from the last Ice Age. Hapgood noted islands on these maps that are not present today, including one off the coast of Brazil that he linked to the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The presence of freshwater diatom specimens dredged from the sea bottom also supports the idea of former landmasses with freshwater environments.

The article also touches upon the controversy surrounding pillar-like formations found underwater near Bimini. While some researchers, like Pino Turolla, suggest they belong to ancient temples, others, like W. Harris, propose they are ballast or cargo from a recent shipwreck, supported by chemical tests indicating materials not native to the Bahamas and dating to the 19th century.

Books Reviewed

This issue includes several book reviews:

• "PERPETUAL MOTION: THE HISTORY OF AN OBSESSION" by Arthur W. J. G. Ord-Hume: Reviewed by George W. Earley, this book chronicles mankind's long-standing dream of perpetual motion, detailing both genuine attempts and elaborate frauds, including those by John Keely and Charles Redheffer.

• "PSI: SCIENTIFIC STUDIES OF THE PSYCHIC REALM" by Charles P. Tart: Reviewed by Morgan Eads, this book offers reflections on parapsychology, focusing on the general nature and psychology of psychic phenomena rather than proving psi. It covers topics like out-of-body experiences, precognition, and the concept of "trans-temporal inhibition."

• "THE ETHEREAN INVASION" by John De Herrera: Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this book is noted as part of a new trend in UFO publishing that links UFOs to psychic or paranormal topics.

Appendix and References

The appendix provides information about a promotional pamphlet from the Scientific Exploration and Archaeological Society (SEAS) detailing their study of sunken columns at Bimini. The references section lists numerous books and articles related to Atlantis, UFOs, and Fortean phenomena, providing sources for the articles presented.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and scientific inquiry. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet analytical approach, presenting research and theories on topics such as UFOs, Atlantis, and seismic activity, while also acknowledging the limitations of current data and the need for rigorous investigation. The editorial stance encourages the exploration of these subjects through systematic analysis and the application of scientific methods to phenomena that often lie outside conventional understanding. The inclusion of book reviews suggests an interest in broadening the reader's knowledge of related fields.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, from the Second Quarter of 1981, delves into a diverse range of unexplained phenomena, from UFO encounters and ancient mysteries to parapsychology and unusual natural events. The publication maintains a spirit of open inquiry, exploring topics that challenge conventional scientific understanding.

Book Reviews

The issue opens with a review of "The Etherean Invasion" by De Herrera, which details the experiences of Brian Scott, an alleged UFO abductee who became a prophet. The reviewer notes the growing trend of books exploring the eccentric forms of the UFO phenomenon. Following this is a review of "Mythical Creatures of the U.S.A. and Canada" by Walker D. Wyman, a cryptozoological compilation that the reviewer, George W. Earley, finds interesting but criticizes for including Bigfoot/Sasquatch and lake monsters alongside purely mythical beasts.

"MEVS: Creator of the Pyramids" by Edgar D. Wilson is reviewed by Jon Douglas Singer. Wilson proposes that the Great Pyramids of Egypt were built by extraterrestrials (MEVS) as records of space, Earth, and physical principles, rather than tombs. The book suggests that pyramid measurements encode astronomical data, with the Giza group being a 1/47 scale model of the Sun and inner planets.

"Psychic Nexus" by Berthold Eric Schwarz, M.D., is reviewed by D. Scott Rogo. Schwarz, a psychiatrist, views ESP and related psychic phenomena as natural outgrowths of person-to-person relationships, occurring when conventional expression of feelings is not possible. The book compiles papers on spontaneous ESP, including instances with his children and patients, and touches upon UFO-contactee Stella Lansing.

SITUations: Curious and Unexplained Events

This section reports on various contemporary events:

• Tiny Tendons: Researchers at the University of North Carolina have created artificial tendons to study how muscles and tendons form and why wounds contract during healing. They discovered that cells which move the least are the strongest.
• Kangaroo Rat: A rancher in Utah reported seeing a kangaroo rat-like creature mixing with his sheep herd, described as yellowish with dark ears.
• No Place Like Home: A flamingo, native to warmer climates, was sighted on North Hero Island in Lake Champlain, Vermont, causing local excitement.
• Disposable Coke?: A lightning strike at a Boy Scout cabin in Manchester, New Hampshire, caused minor injuries and a peculiar incident where a can of Coke reportedly disappeared without leaving a trace.
• Billion Years Younger: Geophysicist Don L. Anderson theorizes that Earth's oldest rocks are a billion years younger than the planet itself, suggesting Earth was once covered by a 300-mile-deep ocean of molten rock.
• The baby mammoth of Magadan: A baby mammoth, preserved in ice in the Magadan Region of the USSR, was discovered in 1977. Radiocarbon analysis dates it to about 40,000 years ago, and it is considered a remarkably complete specimen for scientific study.
• The Tree that Cries: A rural site in Butler, Alabama, attracted visitors to a pecan tree emitting a noise described as a puppy's whimper, with theories ranging from gases to gases seeping from the tree.
• Regeneration of a Foot: A 16-year-old British schoolgirl, Tracy Kitto, reportedly grew a new heel after undergoing self-hypnosis, guided by hypnotist Joseph Keeton.
• Parting of the Waves: Dr. Hans Goedicke, an Egyptologist, proposed a naturalistic explanation for the biblical parting of the Red Sea, attributing it to a tidal wave caused by the volcanic eruption on Thera.
• New Year's Fireball: Pilots reported a fireball and a loud boom over western Pennsylvania on New Year's Day, with speculation ranging from meteors to other atmospheric phenomena.
• Boom Times: This article discusses the persistent mystery of "boom-in-the-sky" phenomena, distinguishing them from sonic booms caused by supersonic aircraft and exploring historical reports of unexplained noises.
• Life on the Bottom: Deep within the Earth, methane deposits and geyser vents support unique colonies of creatures, with evidence supporting the theory that extensive methane deposits lie deep within the Earth, potentially linked to earthquake activity.

Letters to the Editor

• The Watersmeet Light: William Kingsley shares his observations of a persistent light phenomenon in Michigan, described as amber, white, and red lights that pulsate and flicker. He notes that the light has been observed for about 50 years and is a local curiosity.
• Our Mutual Defense of What is Valuable: Dmitri Bayanov from the Darwin Museum in Moscow praises Pursuit for its exploratory spirit and defense of valuable knowledge, expressing hope for similar international cooperation.
• Camera Commits Fortean Forgery: Erich Krug recounts his investigation into a photograph he took, which was initially thought to be an 'invisible critter.' Ground Saucer Watch determined the image was a camera artifact, specifically the shutter opening.
• Wilson et al. vs. Velikovsky et al.: A critique of Edgar Wilson's arguments, questioning his claims about ancient Egyptians knowing the speed of light and the accuracy of pyramid measurements. The author argues against suppressing historical ideas and points out inconsistencies in Wilson's data.
• Applied Astronomy, 2700 B.C. Edition: Harry E. Mongold responds to Edgar Wilson's article, challenging the premise that ancient Giza architects could have known the speed of light and planetary diameters with the technology available. He details the observational techniques and limitations for an ancient astronomer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine consistently champions the exploration of the unexplained and the defense of unconventional ideas, particularly in the realms of UFOlogy, parapsychology, and Fortean phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, encouraging readers to submit their own observations and challenging established scientific paradigms. The magazine provides a platform for diverse theories, from ancient astronaut hypotheses to the interpretation of psychic experiences and natural anomalies. There is a clear emphasis on presenting evidence and arguments, even when they contradict mainstream scientific consensus, and a willingness to engage with complex and often controversial topics.

This document is the first page of a publication from The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU), titled Pursuit. The issue date is indicated as September 1968, with the volume number 1 and issue number 4. The publication is printed in the USA and has an ISSN of 0033-4685. The main cover headline is "The Mystery Light at Watersmeet".

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The Governing Board is listed with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. Other trustees include Gregory Arend, Steven N. Mayne, Robert C. Warth, Martin Wiegler, and Albena Zwerver.

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished individuals from various academic fields, including anthropology, astronomy, biology, psychology, and botany. Notable members include Dr. George A. Agogino (Anthropology), Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Astronomy), Dr. Martin Kruskal (Mathematics), Dr. Samuel B. McDowell (Biology), Dr. Michael A. Persinger (Psychology), and Dr. Roger W. Wescott (Anthropology).

Origins of SITU/Pursuit

The publication details the genesis of SITU and its journal, Pursuit. It was established in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, along with other authors, as a "foundation" for the study of paranormal phenomena. Initially, a newsletter was published to engage professionals and non-professionals interested in these "disquieting mysteries of the natural world."

The first issue of the newsletter appeared in May 1967. The response was sufficient to encourage the founders. By March 1968, with Newsletter No. 2, the foundation announced plans for a larger structure, to be named The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, a name that proved prophetic as Dr. Sanderson later titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained" and dedicated it to the Society.

In June 1968, another publication was released, this time with "Pursuit" displayed as the main title and "newsletter" as a subtitle. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968, the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board and shifted administrative matters to the latter part of the publication, dedicating most of the twenty pages to investigative reporting.

Investigative Reporting Highlights

The September 1968 issue featured several intriguing reports:

• A "great armadillo" (6 feet long, 3 feet high) reportedly captured in Argentina.
• The phenomenon of "instant transportation of solid objects" from one place to another, even through solids.
• An account of an "attack on the famed University of Colorado UFO Project" led by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Updated information regarding "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

The Mystery Light at Watersmeet

Page 2 of the scanned document features an article titled "The Mystery Light at Watersmeet." It describes a phenomenon that "glows through the night like an oncoming train, but there's neither track nor train nor any sound, and if you approach, the light 'goes out'." SITU member William Kingsley photographed this light during a May 1981 vacation trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The article includes sequenced photographs showing the light's progression, its interaction with a power pole, and its final bobble within a halo. Details about the light and Mr. Kingsley's experience are referenced in "Letters to Pursuit, page 93.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication clearly focuses on investigating and reporting on paranormal phenomena and unexplained mysteries of the natural world. The establishment of a Scientific Advisory Board with experts from diverse fields suggests a commitment to a rigorous, albeit unconventional, approach to these subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and detailed reporting on cases and phenomena that challenge conventional understanding.